Taylor Apartments: Building 1

Organization Name: Dattner Architects, Pennrose

Project Title: Taylor Apartments: Building 1

Project Location: Troy, NY

Project Description:
This project represents the first phase of a master plan that is transforming this integral gateway and waterfront site into an affordable, healthy, and sustainable community. The plan revitalizes the John P. Taylor Apartments site by connecting to and extending the downtown district through a multi-phased, mixed-use development. Taylor Apartments 1 provides 141 rental apartments over 7 stories, for a diverse mix of household sizes and incomes, as well as commercial, office, and community space for the residents, and the community. The design references the historic materials and façade articulation of this Victorian city, but in a contemporary and respectful way that is contextual in scale and form. When fully realized, the future phases of the larger master plan--also designed by Dattner Architects -- will revive this stretch of the historic River Street of downtown Troy, stitch the North and South neighborhoods back together, and enliven the waterfront along the Hudson River.

Community Impact:
The project replaced two disused 1950’s era apartment towers belonging to the City’s housing authority, whose 9-story, dark brick facades loomed over the neighborhood. The new building, which was completed in 2025, restores the block to an urban condition that is activated, inviting, and safe: the building is designed with street walls aligned to the sidewalk, programmed landscaping along River street, corner retail, offices, and resident amenities along both frontages.

The building provides much-needed housing for former residents of the original Taylor Apartments complex. The new building includes ample windows, large living spaces, in-unit washer and dryer, high ceilings, and storage lockers at the ground level, as well as modern amenities including fitness room, community room, and a roof deck overlooking the Hudson River. Residents have access directly to surface parking and bicycle parking. Social services and management office suites in the building provide residents with immediate access. Sustainable elements of the building include high-performing mechanical systems, building envelope, and a rooftop photovoltaic array that benefit the residents through reduced utility costs.

Organization Description:
Dattner Architects is a mission-driven, women-owned design firm creating engaging and impactful architecture. Our foundation is civic architecture. We proudly take on the planning and design of the region’s most essential projects, creating architecture that enriches the urban experience, transforms environments, and strengthens communities. We have earned a strong reputation for leading complex projects and developing innovative, implementable solutions. Our projects are recognized for creating livable density and environmental equity.

Team Members:

Pennrose, Troy Housing Authority, Troy Local Development Corporation, Dattner Architects, C2 Architecture