St. John’s Terminal
Transforming A Historic Landmark into a Biophilic Workplace
Project Details
Firm: CookFox Architects
Client: Oxford Properties
Location: Hudson Square, New York, NY
Type: Workplace
Size: 1.3 Million SF
Year: 2024 (involved from 2018-2019)
I was deeply involved in the design and documentation of St. John’s Terminal, contributing both conceptually and technically from Design Development through Construction Documentation. I designed the skylight above the central stair, shaping its aesthetic and integration within the space. Additionally, I developed details for the guardrail system, soffit elements, and catenary lighting while also coordinating a guardrail mock-up for client approval.
As the BIM Manager, I established Revit standards and families that streamlined the workflow, trained team members new to the software, and ensured the seamless coordination of the drawing set. My oversight was instrumental in delivering a fully integrated, high-quality drawing set on schedule—a success my project manager credited directly to my Revit expertise and leadership.
Aerial view from waterfront
Once a freight terminal that fueled New York City’s industrial past, St. John’s Terminal has been reimagined as a cutting-edge workplace. Situated along the Hudson River, this transformation preserves the terminal’s robust industrial character while integrating nature and modern technology to foster a dynamic work environment. By repurposing the existing structure, the project conserves approximately 78,400 metric tons of CO2 emissions, setting a precedent for sustainable adaptive reuse in urban settings.
The project honors its industrial roots by preserving the building’s distinctive brick facade and introducing a “groundscraper” with expansive glazing, metal paneling, and natural materials that create a deliberate contrast between old and new. The terminal was strategically sliced south of Houston Street to reconnect Hudson Square with the westside waterfront, exposing the original railroad beds and revealing the building's industrial heritage while providing a space for landscape to flourish. Through thoughtful adaptive reuse, the project revitalizes St. John’s Terminal, integrating historic elements into a forward-looking design.
View of north entrance
View of upper floor roof terrace
Emphasizing a strong connection to nature, the design integrates expansive rooftop gardens and planted terraces that enhance biodiversity and offer outdoor work and gathering spaces. A high-performance façade maximizes daylight and frames sweeping views of the city and Hudson River. Interior workspaces incorporate filtered outside air and biodynamic lighting that adapts to natural circadian rhythms, further supporting occupant well-being. Sustainability features, including solar arrays and a rainwater catchment system, contribute to the building’s LEED v4 Platinum Certification.
View of 4th floor roof terrace
View of skylight
A defining feature of the interior, the skylight atop the central stair introduces abundant natural light, transforming the stairwell into a vibrant circulation space. Inspired by the work of James Turrell, the skylight frames the sky as a dynamic element, creating an interplay of light and shadow throughout the day. This biophilic strategy strengthens the connection between occupants and the natural environment, reinforcing the building’s commitment to wellness and sensory experience.
Section through skylight
View of Garden Alley
The Garden Alley enhances the pedestrian experience with lush plantings, textured paving, and suspended catenary lighting. Integrating the catenary cable anchors into the existing brickwork required a careful approach to maintain the original masonry while ensuring structural integrity. The design balances historic preservation with contemporary urban placemaking, creating an inviting atmosphere for public interaction.
Section detail at cable anchor
View from 12th floor roof terrace
Section detail at guardrail
Guardrail mock-up
View of loggia entrance
Section details at soffits
Aerial view from Hudson River
St. John’s Terminal exemplifies the power of adaptive reuse in shaping the future of urban architecture. By embracing its industrial past and prioritizing sustainability and wellness, the project demonstrates how thoughtful design can revitalize existing structures. This transformation not only reinvents a historic landmark but also sets a new benchmark for environmentally responsible urban development.