Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Millbrook, NY

Jefferson Group participated as the furniture partner in reimagining the headquarters for one of the nation’s leading ecological research organizations, Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook, NY.

Cary President Joshua Ginsberg recognized that the Institute’s 45-year-old Ecosystem Science Building needed updating and wanted the renovation to support their mission by being sustainably built and highly energy-efficient. The redesign also supports the collaborative nature of 21st-century science, allowing Cary scientists to pair together in offices, work with peers and students in the next room, and collaborate across the globe.

Jefferson Group worked closely with the project team and assisted with furniture selections, seating evaluation, renderings, procurement, and final specifications. We ensured a smooth installation despite supply chain issues and other COVID-related challenges.

Award-winning architects Becker + Becker designed the airy and modern renovation. Architect Malcolm Wells designed the original building for the New York Botanical Garden. As one of the nation’s first commercial solar buildings, it made a strong environmental sustainability statement in 1974.

As part of the renovations, Becker + Becker restored the building’s sawtooth roofline and achieved Cary’s safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability goals.

They transformed the headquarters into a net zero (emissions) building that meets LEED Platinum level credentials and six out of seven elements of The Living Building Challenge. Recycled and repurposed materials feature in the redesign, and an adjacent 700kW solar field meets 100% of the building’s electric needs.

The makeover includes:

New offices for Cary scientists, with room for shared spaces or capacity for expansion.
Desks are either a single or an “l-shaped” with height adjustments and dual monitor arms.
Dedicated space for visiting scientists and postdocs.
Agile work furniture for flexible and collaborative spaces.
Conference rooms are outfitted with technology that supports virtual and hybrid experiences.

Cary Institute staff are global experts in the ecology of cities, freshwaters, forests, infectious diseases, and the impact of climate change on ecological systems. Jefferson Group is privileged to be entrusted to furnish their work environment as they focus on saving our precious resources! This stunning, sunlit space will provide a welcoming work environment for their scientists, staff and visitors for many years.