Columbia University’s new Philip & Cheryl Milstein Family Tennis Center is a strong example of how institutions can address the challenges of limited urban space and increasing climate risk. Located between the Hudson and Harlem Rivers in northern Manhattan, the facility takes a vertical approach, stacking indoor and rooftop courts to maximize functionality on a compact footprint while preserving the surrounding landscape.
The project features Kingspan Light + Air's UniGrid™ FRP Wall System with integrated windows, bringing in diffuse natural daylight, reducing glare and framing riverfront views. The system supports energy efficiency and long-term durability in a flood-prone zone. At the ground level, a “wet floodproofing” strategy allows the building to safely accommodate and recover from flooding, an increasingly important tactic for urban development.
The case study highlights practical strategies for vertical construction, resilient infrastructure and high-performance daylighting. I’ve attached the case study below, along with a link to high-res photos. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like additional details.