The historic 5th Ave. Harlem Hellfighter’s Armory Drill Shed (1922) and Administration Building (1933), designated as New York State historic landmarks in 1982, underwent a significant transformation into a modern Army National Guard Readiness Center. Located in Manhattan’s Harlem neighborhood, this iconic facility was renovated to support the operational and training needs of the Army National Guard.
DRG Architects led comprehensive renovations, which included façade restoration, site improvements, and interior upgrades. The project focused on enhancing the Army National Guard Readiness Center to optimize mission readiness, troop training, and operational efficiency.
The scope of work included:- Programming and architectural design tailored to National Guard requirements
- Building code analysis to ensure compliance with modern safety regulations
- Anti-terrorism force protection design to enhance security measures
- Energy efficiency improvements for sustainable operations
- Upgrades to life safety, indoor environmental quality, and structural integrity
DRG Architects worked closely with the Office of General Services, the Department of Military and Naval Affairs, and the United States Army National Guard to ensure the Readiness Center met the evolving needs of the Army National Guard while preserving its historic significance.
This transformation addressed key deficiencies in the building envelope, functionality, and overall operational readiness, reinforcing the Harlem Hellfighter’s Armory as a vital facility for military preparedness.
