The new BAPS development; 2 Deshon Drive Melville, NY 11747
MELVILLE, NY, MARCH 22, 2018 —
Due to the growing Hindu community on Long Island, there was a need for a more local Mandir. H2M architects + engineers (H2M) designed and constructed a new 42,000 square foot, two story community facility (Hindu Cultural and Spiritual Center) located within the city of Melville on Long Island for the BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan) Development team.
The design and construction of the building needed to accommodate the installation of traditional Hindu architectural elements. This coordination was challenging and especially important because all decorative façade detailing on the exterior of the building is a Fiberglass Reinforced Product that was fabricated in India and then shipped to Melville. The most unique may be the hand carved, solid wood doors and indoor shrine. Both were done by craftsman in India to bring an authentic feel to the center.
In addition to keeping with tradition, H2M worked to incorporate sustainable features into the design and construction of BAPS. With in-floor radiant heating, tankless water heaters, high efficacy lighting, and a robust thermal envelope, the building’s operating costs will remain manageable. Add to this the weather and temperature resistant fiberglass moldings and a full masonry exterior, and the long-term durability expected to span a century is certain.
Upon initial entrance into the building, the large reception and welcome area is flooded with natural light by means of two large glass pyramids integrated into the roof design. This provides a visual connection to exterior mandir spires. Other rooms within the building include the main sanctuary, the main assembly hall with a performance stage, and administrative space, educational rooms, a gymnasium, a full commercial kitchen, a book store, and a monastery.
The completion of the building not only met the clients’ expectations, but is sized to accommodate for the future growth of the Hindu congregation on Long Island. H2M also received a Gold Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) for this project.
Celebrating 85 years, H2M is a full-service consulting and design firm offering the expertise of more than 390 architects, engineers (water supply, civil/site, structural, M/E/P, wastewater and environmental), planners, designers, inspectors, surveyors and scientists. H2M is proud of its long history of client service and consistent ability to meet architectural, engineering, and environmental challenges head on. H2M offers a practical approach, with creative results.
