The origins of Tammany Hall as a populist organization include its namesake, the legendary Lenape Chief Tamanend. Early in the design stage, BKSK initiated an ongoing consultation with founding members of the Lenape Center to bring an authentic, legitimate voice and representation to the concept of a dome addition inspired by the Lenape creation story of a great turtle rising from the sea. While respectful of the building’s historic character, the organic domed intervention provocatively yields insight about the underlying social history of the building as well.

In 2013, Tammany Hall was designated an individual landmark for its “special heritage, and cultural characteristics.” The restoration/expansion includes sensitive façade restoration, historically accurate bronze and limestone storefronts, and a 3-story rooftop addition, composed of a self-supporting free form grid dome atop a hipped roof of steel, glass and terra cotta sunshades. The redevelopment of Tammany Hall creates a meaningful visual dialogue between contemporary and historic architecture and accommodate change and vertical expansion with historic integrity and a fresh narrative.

Capping off the collaboration, the finished project was blessed in a traditional Lenape ceremony acknowledging past and future occupants of the site. The unexpected juxtaposition heightens the perception of the building’s significance, animates the corner of Union Square in a way it never was, and evokes connections to history that are important to both understand and acknowledge.