Joy Tchamitchian and Dannia Ghalib

This project was created to integrate EHTP’s after-school program within a historic church building located on 104th Street in East Harlem. Although the church is rarely in use, one of the main goals was to visually connect the two programs that exist within one space. The idea of a screen arose, which created a sense of privacy for both the classrooms and the church, but allowed for a connection through light, colors, and voids. EHTP is an organization dedicated to improving students’ academic skills, strength of character, and emotional well being to excel in high school and college. Taking that into account, an integral part of the project is that it consists of several community-based spaces that allow for students to interact, learn and share with their families and community. Students are also given the freedom of choosing how to learn through use of furniture. This was set up to give students a chance to explore and realize their best possible selves so that they can give back to their communities in a positive manner.