Joseph House

Joseph House, a 75-unit two-story residential building for seniors located in the West New Brighton section of Staten Island, is undergoing a renovation program to enhance accessibility, prepare for future electrification, and provide a more comfortable experience for residents.

Public features in the common areas will be updated for improved accessibility, such as restrooms, the community room kitchenette, and mailbox areas, along with installation of a new stretcher-sized elevator to provide better and safer access to the second floor. Upgrades to the bathrooms and kitchens within the apartments will also better support aging in place. Material selection will prioritize comfortable, healthy, and low Global Warming Potential (GWP) products for finishes.

The renovation plan proposes balanced ventilation systems for a healthier environment, utilizing bathroom exhaust and energy recovery systems to deliver fresh, tempered air into common areas. Further improvements to the overall performance of the building systems include new code-compliant and healthier attic insulation, weatherization and air sealing strategies, insulated panels at existing A/C units, and replacement of all non-LED light fixtures. Additionally, a substantial array of photovoltaic panels will be installed with the anticipation that the system will offset most of the building’s common energy consumption and potentially a portion of the residents’ electric bills through a Community Solar program.

These upgrades not only address the immediate needs of the residents but also ensure that Joseph House is well-prepared to meet future challenges, creating a sustainable and inclusive living environment for its community.