Labouisse Hall Renovation
New York, NY
UNICEF House at 3 UN Plaza in New York City
A vital space for diplomatic engagement and internal dialogue, Labouisse Hall had long lagged behind in both aesthetics and technical capacity. The 5,372-square-foot space was transformed into a polished, state-of-the-art conference center befitting its purpose.
Spacesmith led the architectural and design efforts in close collaboration with UNICEF and external consultants, including Ralph Appelbaum and Associates. Regular design reviews, showroom tours, and full-scale sample walkthroughs helped refine finish palettes, furniture selections, and layout strategies, all tailored to meet UNICEF’s operational needs and brand values.
The reimagined entrance now makes a powerful impression. Exhibit walls, curated in collaboration with branding consultants, showcase UNICEF’s history and achievements. Custom millwork displays the Labouisse name and provides functional space for events and catering, enhanced by strategic lighting and finishes. Designed to accommodate a variety of uses, the conference room features reconfigurable furniture and full AV integration, including stage lighting, cameras, and a large presentation screen.
Acoustics were significantly improved with decoupled sawtooth ceilings, felt wall panels, and integrated wood slat lighting. The resulting space supports everything from executive board meetings to global livestreamed events.
Interpreter booths were upgraded with new stations, acoustic curtains, and state-of-the-art equipment to support live translations in six UN languages. Adjacent, a new control room enables full management of lighting, sound, and video systems.
In line with UNICEF’s commitment to sustainability, Spacesmith advocated for adaptive reuse wherever possible. Much of the original infrastructure, including HVAC ductwork, kitchen equipment, and floor outlets, was preserved and integrated into the new design, reducing waste and managing costs.
Together, these renovations have redefined UNICEF’s ground-floor experience—turning once-disconnected and outdated spaces into a unified, functional, and emotionally resonant environment.
