Manitoga / The Russel Wright Design Center
Garrison, NY
River Architects has been collaborating on a long series of projects at MANITOGA / The Russel Wright Design Center. Located in Garrison, NY. Manitoga is the former home of the American industrial designer Russel Wright, and comprises the main house, pergola, studio, and a 75-acre woodland garden and trails- all part of Russel Wright’s unified design vision of living in harmony with nature.
River Architects assisted in generating the initial assessment report funded through grants from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Cynthia Mitchell Fund and the New York State Council on the Arts. River Architects led the efforts at assessing and correcting structural, waterproofing, and electrical failures and deficiencies, including major water ingress problems, mice infestations, and insufficient electrical service, while preserving the aesthetics and integrity of the original design. River Architects designed the conversion of the underutilized garage space into a light-filled entry, workroom, kitchenette, and universally accessible restroom, while also addressing improved air quality and moisture control.
Subsequently River Architects assisted the Russel Wright Design Center in the restoration of the Studio, which was plagued with a defunct mechanical system, serious moisture issues threatening the historic fabric with mold, animal infestation, and air quality issues. River Architects managed the work of the engineering consultants and the trades in identifying problems in various systems and how to address them, including the reinforcement of the block and native stone foundation walls. Insulation and vapor control strategies were implemented, eliminating pathways for mice and racoons from entering, and providing greatly improved air quality, vapor control, and thermal comfort to the interiors. The elimination of the failing oil-based furnace and fuel tank freed up space for clean and dry storage, and carefully situated heat pumps provide thermal comfort and improved humidity levels throughout the year. Once complete, the improvements were immediate yet invisible to visitors.
Development of the Master Plan continued in Phase 2, with ongoing infrastructure repair and upgrades, Kitchen restoration, and conversion of administrative offices into a Design Gallery with ADA-compliant Bathrooms and Work zones. Space was allocated for art restoration functions and storage areas, and plans were developed for accessibility and egress, along with lighting evaluation and design. Existing finishes were restored in keeping with the initial intent of the design, and historic sensitivity was considered in all aspects of the project.
River Architects are the Architects of Record for the Design Gallery, a bold conversion of the original bedroom wing of the house into a permanent exhibition space for their collection. River Architects brought their deep familiarity of the structure in reversing alterations that compromised both structural and design integrity, assisted in the documentation of historic fabric, and in a seamless transition from the Collection to the original house environment. River Architects integrated the work of exceptional lighting and exhibition designers, Manitoga’s talented staff and board members, and managed the efforts of the craftspeople executing the work.
River Architects is assisting in the planning for future improvements to the Russel Wright Design Center which will include a new, separate structure which will include accessible restrooms for the public and a gardener’s workshop.
Project Awards:
2022 LIT Lighting Design Award for Visitor Experience & Museum Exhibition
2022 Chicago Athenaeum, American Architecture Award
2022 Chicago Athenaeum, International Architecture Award
2022 Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, NY Chapter, Merit Award
2021 Society of American Registered Architects, National Council, Honor Award
2021 Society of American Registered Architects, New York Council, Design Award
Learn more about Manitoga and Russel Wright at www.visitmanitoga.org
Read more about this historic site in Architectural Digest - 13 Historic American Houses Every Design Lover Should Visit In Person.
Photos of Design Gallery Interior by Pamela Cook
Photo of Design Gallery Exterior by Michael Biondo for Manitoga