Adaptive reuse has been a way preservationists have been able to maintain historic sites throughout New York City while giving them an exciting new purpose. One case study WHSAD students have looked at over the course of the last few weeks is the TWA Flight Center at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Designed by world-famous architect Eero Saarinen, The TWA Flight Center opened in 1962 as the original terminal for Trans World Airlines at Idlewild Airport (now JFK). It is a prime example of the forward-thinking modern architecture that was in vogue in the 1960s.
Both the interior and the exterior of the Flight Center were declared a New York City Landmark in 1994. In 2005, the terminal was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
On May 31st, through a partnership with the World Monuments Fund, WHSAD students were able to visit the TWA Flight Center which is currently closed to the public while the building undergoes renovation and construction.
Students attended a pre-visit workshop by Frank Sanchis, Director of U.S. Programs at the WMF. At the Flight Center students were given a tour by James Steven, Program Director, JFK Redevelopment, The Port Authority of NY & NJ. Students learned about the past of the flight center and the future with plans for a 500+ room hotel to be built, along with 40,00 square feet of conference space, and other amenities.
