Over the past few years since the addition of the Albany Community and Troy Prep Schools, KIPP has grown from two to seven schools serving students across the Capital Region. To better support the growing KIPP community, CSArch led a planning study in January 2021 to develop options for a new high school. After a survey to parents in the spring of 2023 revealed an overwhelmingly positive response to the possibility of a space for all “KIPPsters” in grades 9-12, the goal to create KIPP Capital High School became an exciting reality. 

Since March 2023, CSArch has led the charge for the design and construction of the brand-new high school building on the site adjacent to the existing KIPP Tech Valley Primary and Middle School. With capacity for up to 800 students, the three-floor, 95,980 SF building will include general classrooms, art and music classrooms, science labs, computer, media and innovation labs, a large gymnasium and fitness center, student support suite, and administrative offices. To maximize flexibility and adaptability, the cafeteria and learning stair will serve as the community-centering focal point of the building, providing support for large or small gatherings, presentations, and school performances.

Upon completion in July 2025, the new high school will offer a safe, engaging, and innovative educational experience for all KIPPsters.

It is next door to the current KIPP Tech Valley Middle School at 400 Northern Boulevard Albany, NY 12210. There is parking in the rear of the building.

Approved for 1 LU/HSW

Registration is limited to 20 participants.

Registration is complimentary for members of AIAENY

This complimentary tour is only available to attendees of the Design and Honor Awards Reception.

Explore the multi-phase transformation of Capital Roots’ headquarters through an architectural tour of Capital Roots in Troy, NY. Beginning with the vision behind Phase 1, participants will learn how the project embodies Capital Roots’ mission to nourish healthy communities with access to fresh food and green spaces for all.

 Phase 1 involved the adaptive reuse of a former manufacturing building at 594 River Street into a vibrant, accessible hub. Emphasis was placed on cost-effective sustainable solutions, including solar power, green roofs, permeable paving, bioretention gardens, and a functional water-harvesting silo that also serves as a striking design feature. The design team maximized natural light, reused original building materials, maintained operable windows and high ceilings, and created an open floor plan to support movement, communication, and a healthy workplace—all while avoiding the need for an elevator through creative accessibility solutions.

Phase 2 expanded on this vision with the construction of a new facility to increase food production capacity. The new building incorporates sustainable materials and systems, including daylighting strategies, a photovoltaic roof, and stormwater management features to protect the Hudson River. With a larger commercial kitchen, indoor market, and community gathering spaces, the center continues to support the organization’s mission and deepen its impact across the Capital Region.

This tour will highlight how adaptive reuse, green technology, and mission-driven design can come together to create healthier, more sustainable communities.

 Learning Objectives:

Analyze how adaptive reuse strategies contribute to sustainable design while enhancing public and nature’s health through reduced construction waste, improved indoor air quality, and preservation of historic materials.

Evaluate the impact of integrated green infrastructure—including green roofs, permeable paving, stormwater management, and solar energy—on site performance, energy efficiency, and the environmental health of surrounding communities.

Identify cost-effective design solutions that prioritize occupant well-being, such as maximizing daylight, utilizing natural ventilation, and creating accessible, movement-friendly environments without reliance on complex mechanical systems.

Demonstrate how architecture can support community health and equity by aligning with the mission of organizations like Capital Roots to provide access to fresh food, green space, and inclusive gathering spaces for underserved populations.

Approved for 1 LU/HSW

Click to register.

DASNY leaders and attendees will engage in a series of presentations about upcoming projects, organizational updates, and opportunities to provide professional consulting services. Opening remarks will be given by DASNY President & CEO, Robert Rodriguez.

AIA New York State members are invited to attend at the ACEC New York member rate, using code DASNYAIA at checkout.

A long-standing educational landmark in Albany’s midtown, the 129,000 square foot, Neoclassical building originally served as Albany High School from 1913 to 1974. After the high school moved to its current location on Washington Avenue, the building housed Philip Schuyler Elementary School before the University at Albany purchased the property in 2013. During that 100-year period, the building retained most of its original character and charm, including the historic corridors, exterior envelope, entry foyers, stairwells, skylights, and the building’s 1200-seat auditorium.

In 2016, UAlbany announced plans to embark on a multi-phased, comprehensive renovation and adaptive reuse of the former Albany High School. Once complete, the building would house the University’s new College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering (CNSE) to provide state-of-the-art educational, lab, and research facilities for engineering and computer science programs. Led by CSArch as the architect and engineer-of-record, the design focuses on restoring and preserving the most distinguishable features of the original building while creating state-of-the-art spaces for cutting-edge research and academic programming to take place.

The recently completed phase of the project restored the south wing, which encompasses approximately half of the building’s 129,000 square feet. Construction of the $85 million project will now shift to a comparable renovation of the north wing and restoration of the historic auditorium in the sixth and final phase of the project, which is expected to be complete in 2027. Upon completion, the project will achieve LEED Gold certification and expand the size of UAlbany's downtown campus by about 40 percent, while simultaneously serving as a testament to the city's rich history.

We will be touring the completed wing of the building and the wing that is currently under construction. Please be sure wear appropriate attire and provide your own hard hat.

Street parking is recommended as the nearby campus lot requires a UAlbany-issued parking pass.

Submitted for 1 LU/HSW

Registration is limited to 20 participants.

Registration is complimentary for members of AIAAENY