Manitoga was the former country retreat of 20th century modern designer Russel Wright. Located about an hour north of New York City in the scenic Hudson Highlands at Garrison, NY, Manitoga was the primary design focus in the last chapter of Wright’s life which he considered his most important accomplishment. The property, named Manitoga from the Algonquin word for “Place of the Great Spirit,” includes a 75-acre woodland garden designed by Wright; the Dragon Rock complex comprised of Wright’s home and studio; and a striking waterfall and quarry pond. Today restoration of Wright’s masterpiece, museum and botanical garden, continues to provide protection for Manitoga, and to share its treasures with the broadest possible audience. Manitoga offers guided tours of Russel Wright’s home, studio and woodland garden and provides a Summer Nature and Design Camp. Manitoga is supported by memberships, private donations, grants and program revenues.

In 2009 the green roofs of the Manitoga Exhibition Center were completely restored, utilizing Kemper System's waterproofing membranes to provide maximum protection to the buildings underneath.

“The restoration of the green roofs at Manitoga, the home of the American designer Russel Wright, is a perfect example of the quality and durability of the Kemper System waterproofing and roofing system. The task of restoring Manitoga’s two green roofs required a unique application that combined historic consideration with proven technologies and innovations. Kemper was our chosen solution, which weaved seamlessly into the existing historic fabrics while ensuring maximum protection against water infiltration. KW has specified Kemper for many of our toughest and most challenging projects”.
Kaitsen Woo, President, Kaitsen Woo Architect P. C. (KWA)

Kaitsen Woo Architect P. C. (KWA) is an architectural firm with core specializations in preservation and modern design. The firm develops a custom approach for each of their preservation projects that preserves and reinforces a property’s central idea, history and identity.

   
2010-03 Production Facility Buffalo, NY
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2010-05 Green Roof Restoration, Manitoga, NY
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