Ballet Tech Interior Remodel 890 Broadway New York, NY

890 Broadway, built in 1896, is an 8-story building on the corner of Broadway and 19th Street in Manhattan. On the upper floors, the building is home to Ballet Tech School - NYC’s premiere magnet public school for ballet. MBA is currently leading the comprehensive 40,000 SF renovation of the 6th and 7th floors at Ballet Tech, a New York City magnet elementary and secondary public school centered on intensive dance education. The project reimagines existing space to support an expanding student population while strengthening both academic and performing arts programs. The renovation includes the reconfiguration and expansion of elementary and middle school classrooms—including science labs, music rooms, English and history classrooms—as well as the modernization and reorganization of multiple dance studios to better align with curriculum needs. Grammar school students receive 1.5 hours per week of dedicated dance instruction, while intermediate school students receive 3 hours per week, requiring careful scheduling, acoustical considerations, and optimized studio layouts to support rigorous daily use. The project incorporates new universal locker rooms designed to serve students of all genders while prioritizing privacy, dignity, accessibility, and supervision. These locker rooms feature fully enclosed changing and shower compartments, ADA-accessible layouts, and shared circulation areas that allow for appropriate oversight while maintaining individual privacy. The design supports flexibility, equity, and long-term adaptability for a diverse student body. In addition to programmatic upgrades, building systems are being comprehensively modernized, including mechanical, electrical, and fire protection systems, to enhance performance, safety, and code compliance. The project began with a detailed evaluation of existing classroom configurations, life safety conditions, ADA compliance, and building systems performance. MBA compiled its findings and recommendations into a feasibility report, establishing a clear roadmap for implementation. Construction phasing has been critical, as the school remains operational throughout the academic year. A carefully coordinated four-phase plan aligns with the school calendar, with each major phase scheduled for completion during summer recess to minimize disruption. Throughout the renovation, MBA has worked to preserve the original design intentions and color palette developed by the school’s renowned founder, Elliott Feld. The project respects the building’s unique character—featuring high ceilings, exposed brick, and intricate plaster ceiling brackets and beams—while sensitively integrating modern educational and building system upgrades. The result is a thoughtful balance between historic character and contemporary performance. MBA has served as Architect of Record for the building for more than 20 years. Prior work includes restoration of the two primary street façades and ongoing sidewalk vault repairs, reflecting the firm’s long-term stewardship of this important cultural and educational institution.