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hospitality

W Hotel NYC - Lexington Avenue

W Hotels is a contemporary, design-led lifestyle brand and an innovator in the hospitality industry. When the W Hotel on Lexington Avenue underwent a complete overhaul of its heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) infrastructure, it depended upon the expertise of AK Engineering to perform all required inspections. The scope of the project included the installation of new heat pumps in each guest room throughout 18 floors of the building. All new equipment was installed to accommodate the infrastructure work, which included new cooling towers, pumps, heat exchangers and related controls.

New rooftop equipment was supported on a new steel dunnage and catwalk system. The fast-track project was completed in 20 weeks over several phases without interfering with the hotel’s operations.

AK Engineering kept pace with the project team and accommodated all necessary inspections throughout the duration of the work. The special/progress inspection firm has since completed two additional projects in the building with the same team, including the renovation of all American Disability Act (ADA)-compliant guest rooms and the remodeling of the living room portion of the hotel lobby.

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Hospitality

Waldorf Astoria

When the world-renowned Waldorf Astoria renovated its public areas, they relied on AK Engineering to conduct all required inspections throughout the progression and completion of the work. The first phase included revamping the hotel’s impressive 20,000-square-foot Park Avenue entrance. All finishes were restored; new mechanical, electrical and sprinkler components were installed, and a new marquee canopy with all related structural support was erected. The second phase included renovation of a second-floor security office. The project culminated with a challenging third phase, which included the complete renovation of the Waldorf’s unique 15,000-square-foot motor court and related valet areas that run below the building. The enclosed drive, designed for welcoming celebrities and dignitaries, was restored to its original scope of 1931, with a four-lane arrival venue befitting the hotel’s Art Deco design.

The structural floor slab was re-supported with new steel and structural concrete. All new mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP), sprinkler and fire alarm components were completed to support the renovation. AK Engineering special/progress inspection services also were administered for renovations of the hotel’s banquet-hall bathrooms and model guest rooms.