Urban Umbrella the New NYC Sidewalk Sheds

(Photo Credit: Edward Reed)

A Welcome Change from Conventional Scaffolding

New York City unveiled the first prototype of the Urban Umbrella, the winning design from the urbanSHED International Design Competition. The competition was held to create a new design for sidewalk sheds – temporary structures built to protect pedestrians during construction – which had not been updated in more than 60 years in New York City. The prototype of the new state-of-the-art sidewalk shed was unveiled at 100 Broadway, a 24-story building in Lower Manhattan.

The Urban Umbrella features several new elements that are expected to transform the look of the City’s streetscapes and significantly improve upon the current model.

The new structure, which is primarily comprised of recycled steel, translucent plastic panels and LED lighting, brings more air and natural light to the sidewalk and increases building visibility to help businesses attract customers during construction operations.

The sleek design also limits obstructions to allow for more pedestrian traffic and increases visibility at night because of its strategic lighting. The design is safer than the current model because it is more resistant to the forces associated with falling debris, vehicle accidents and strong winds.

(images from the Mayor's Office)

Supported by the Alliance for Downtown New York and the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City through a grant from REBNY, the Urban Umbrella was constructed to incorporate new safety and aesthetic features that vastly improve the pedestrian experience.

Sidewalk sheds are required during construction of new buildings 40 feet or higher and the demolition of buildings 25 feet or higher. There are approximately 6,000 sheds installed in New York City.

Significant features of the Urban Umbrella include:

(images from the Mayor's Office)

Sustainable LED lighting with an 11-year lifespan

Graceful lighting strategy that enhances storefronts
Translucent overhead panels that transmits natural ambient light to the sidewalk
Horizontal load equal to 2% of its vertical load
Elimination of cross-bracing that visually obstructs storefronts and building entrances
300 pounds per square foot load capacity to protect the public from falling debris and allow for safe construction above
Adjustable feet that pivot and extend to accommodate changes in sidewalk pitch, eliminating the need for wood shims

To order the Urban Umbrella, contact the Agencie Group at urbanumbrella@agenciegroup.com.