Chamber recognizes 32 residential and commercial properties at 57th annual Building Awards

Construction projects come in all different shapes and sizes. That was on full display as 32 residential and commercial properties on Staten Island were recognized at the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce’s 57th annual Building Awards at the Richmond County Country Club.

The affair -- sponsored by Kamco Supply Corp. which is one of the largest commercial/residential building material suppliers in the New York metropolitan area -- celebrates the best in construction and design for commercial and residential properties across Staten Island. New construction or renovations are submitted by homeowners, contractors, engineers, architects, interior designers, landscapers, and craftsmen and are judged by industry experts.

The highest honors in the Building Awards program is the prestigious Chairman’s and President’s Award as three applicants were crowned winners.

From eight nominees, judges bestowed the Chairman’s Award (Commercial) to the Angiuli & Gentile LLP Building at 1493 Hylan Blvd. which was submitted by the Angiuli Group, LLC, Arthur F. McCarthy and Arthur C. McCarthy from Mammoth Inc. Construction, and Nicholas Tamborra, RA. The Portsmouth Residence in Todt Hill won the Chairman's Award (Residential) and was submitted by Tony Brusco, owner/builder, and Alfred V. Saulo, architect. The President’s Award was awarded to Daniella Bella’s South at 64 Sharrott Avenue and was submitted by owner Daniella Gelati.

Three properties were also selected for various Discretionary Awards. The property at 34 Hett Avenue won the Sandy Restoration Award (commercial or residential entries which experienced substantial damage as a result of 2012 Super Storm Sandy and were rebuilt or reconstructed in accordance with NYC Resiliency and Flood resistant construction requirements), the NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health Vanderbilt Clinic captured the Neighborhood Improvement Award (entry that helps improve the character of a residential neighborhood, either by inspiring other neighbors or creating a place where neighbors can come together), and the Project Hospitality Project won the Adaptive Reuse Award (recognizes an entry that has creatively transformed a time-worn or abandoned building into something new and useful).

The Albert P. Melniker Award -- which is presented to a special person, group, or structure that enhances the quality of life on Staten Island -- was awarded to the St. George Theatre. This award is named as a tribute to Albert Melniker, the founder of the building awards program, for his service, commitment, and dedication to keeping Staten Island a beautiful place to both live and work.

Staten Island Chamber of Commerce Chairman Glen V. Cutrona, AIA, presented the award to sisters Doreen Cugno and Luanne Sorrentino for the continuous transformation of the historic theatre, which attracts artists and audiences from across the city and beyond, and adding vibrancy to the Downtown Staten Island neighborhood.

“I always say everyone is so familiar with the great shows and concerts and our community efforts, but today it’s just so nice to be recognized for the restoration,” said Cugno, president, CEO, and co-founder of the St. George Theatre Restoration Inc. “It certainly is fun and challenging maintaining our beautiful, 90-year-old building. We’re so proud to bring it back to its original glory and continue with our mom’s dream and her vision.”

“We really are so indebted to so many people that are here today,” said Sorrentino, co-founder of the St. George Theatre Restoration Inc. “Everything that you see (with the renovations) comes through the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, the Borough President’s Office, and the Mayor’s Office. So please thank them and thank all our elected officials.”

The Staten Island Chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the Home Improvement Contractors of Staten Island presented the winners of the Allen Hauber Scholarship Awards Program. The program is eligible for high school seniors who have demonstrated exceptional scholastic achievement, community service and an interest in pursuing careers in the Engineering, Architectural and Construction Trades. 

The winners were: Caitlin Schroeder (Staten Island Technical High School), first place; Tian Lin (Staten Island Tech), second place; Emma Rosson (Notre Dame Academy), third place; Yajiara Morales (Ralph McKee High School), fourth place; Alison Zarrilli (Notre Dame Academy), fifth place; Ana Flores Lopez (Ralph McKee High School), sixth place; and Richard Guang of Staten Island Technical High School, seventh place.