Current project · Updated November 2026
Sarah Trop, founder and lead designer of FunCycled, is the lead interior designer for the Albany Capital Center expansion in downtown Albany, NY. Since April 2026 she has guided design cohesion across three connected spaces: the existing convention center, the historic building at 126 State Street, and a new building and enclosed walkway linking them. The expansion is scheduled to open in March 2027. For a look into the Albany Capital Center and its expansion, visit albanycapitalcenter.com
The challenge: three buildings, one experience
The Albany Capital Center expansion joins a modern convention center, a historic State Street building and brand-new construction. Each piece has its own architecture, era and team. Without one person looking at the whole picture, an expansion like this can end up feeling like three separate places stitched together.
My job is to make sure guests feel one welcoming, cohesive place as they move from old to current to new.
What I designed and selected
- Paint colors across the new, existing and historic spaces
- Light fixtures
- Facade selections
- Interior finish selections
- Signage design support
- Custom room millwork selections
- Outdoor courtyard design selections
How the work happens
The Capital Center already had a strong team in place: construction manager BBL, plus architects, engineers and a furniture supplier. I join their biweekly project meetings as the design voice that connects every decision, so construction, finishes and furniture all work together across the three buildings.
For the executive team, that means fewer decisions made in isolation and less decision fatigue. They know someone is considering how every selection will look and feel in all three spaces.
Why it matters for commercial clients
Most commercial projects have plenty of specialists and no one owning the overall experience. FunCycled fills that role for event venues, offices, hospitality spaces, short-term rentals and nonprofits across the Capital Region: we blend what exists with what’s new, reuse what’s worth keeping, and make sure the finished space tells one clear story.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the interior designer for the Albany Capital Center expansion?
Sarah Trop of FunCycled, a Wynantskill-based interior design studio, is the lead interior designer for the expansion. She guides design cohesion across the existing convention center, 126 State Street and the new connecting building.
When will the Albany Capital Center expansion open?
The expansion is scheduled to be completed in March 2027.
Does FunCycled design commercial spaces?
Yes. FunCycled designs commercial interiors across the Capital Region of New York, including event venues, offices, Airbnbs, retail and nonprofit spaces. Learn more about our commercial interior design services.
Planning a commercial space?
Whether you are blending old and new buildings or refreshing a single space, we would love to help. Book a consultation or call 518-629-5386.
Renderings courtesy of the Albany Capital Center. Photos of the finished spaces and the full project story will be added when the expansion opens in 2027.
