The Genovese Family Life Center is part of SCO Family of Services, one of the largest human services organizations in the New York metro area. Their mission: provide vital support to children, families, and the broader community.

The existing 30,000-square-foot facility in Queens was made up of outdated, underutilized spaces and mismatched furniture. SCO engaged architecture firm Spacesmith to transform the lower level into a Center for Professional Development. After its success, a full building renovation followed.

One of the key challenges? No consistent furniture standards. “We had lots of different brands, styles, and sizes,” said Hayden Blades, VP of Facilities at SCO. The goal became clear: create standards to improve functionality, streamline occupancy, and prepare for future growth.

Spacesmith began designing new space standards and brought in Henricksen to consult on furniture. Simone Espinet and her team provided a tailored solution using products from multiple manufacturers. Live mockups including CET Designer demonstrations showed how reconfiguration and phased occupancy could be easily managed.

“One of the things that really sold us was seeing how quickly the system could be changed without redesigning the space,” said Blades. That adaptability became even more critical as the COVID pandemic began mid-design. Henricksen’s flexible solution allowed the team to meet social distancing protocols and later adjust layouts as restrictions eased.

The new furniture standards also helped SCO consolidate real estate. “We closed a smaller office and moved that team here without a full reconfig,” noted Blades.

For public areas serving foster care and domestic violence cases, the team selected furniture that was safe, supportive, and welcoming. “We looked for high-backed, curved pieces upholstered in durable materials that still felt residential,” said Ambar Margarida, Principal at Spacesmith. “The goal was to create a space that’s comfortable for everyone children, youth, and adults.”

Today, the Genovese Family Life Center is a bright, flexible, and inclusive environment that reflects SCO’s mission and prepares the organization for future growth.