A wider, steel-reinforced, fireproof staircase that reaches from the street to the second and third floors will allow us to be code-compliant with regard to egress and fire safety. Beyond meeting the requirements for safety, it will also transform the way we enter the space—providing a sense of stability and security, along with a more expansive sense of welcome, cohesion and connection with the experience that awaits within the dojo from the moment we leave the street.

With the necessity of ADA compliant restrooms, a NYC required backwater valve, and upgraded waste and drainage plumbing to meet code, comes the opportunity to be more welcoming, inclusive, and reflective of the diversity of our community with expanded women’s changing and restroom facilities, relocated laundry room in the deshi quarters along with a full, ADA compliant bathroom on that floor to accommodate visitors and guests more hospitably.

Improved ventilation and additional windows required to meet the standards for living spaces in the city will yield greater air quality and bring more light to create a more livable, inviting third floor space. Repairs to the second and third roofing will address latent asbestos issues allowing us to breathe easier throughout the space. A building-wide sprinkler system meets fire safety requirements throughout the space. Taken together, these upgrades provide a more easeful environment for everything that happens in our building on every floor.

Beginning with proper sealing and caulking of all windows and doors, insulation and sound-proofing, and extending to comprehensive electrical rewiring, conversion to energy-efficient lighting, repair of mechanical room, relocation of water heaters, and replacement of the existing boiler, increased energy efficiency will also translate into a healthier, sustainably comfortable, and eco-friendly environment in which to gather, practice, and train.