500 5th Avenue
500 Fifth Avenue, an iconic 60-story Art Deco creation by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, graces the bustling intersection of Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street in Midtown Manhattan. Dating back to its completion in 1931, this architectural masterpiece boasts a striking facade blending bronze, limestone, and terracotta at its base, transitioning seamlessly to a dignified brick-clad exterior above the fourth floor. Noteworthy for its setbacks, a feature from the 1916 Zoning Resolution, the building's facade proudly showcases asymmetrical and intricate designs on both its Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street sides. These setbacks, dubbed "a phallic pivot" in jest by the AIA Guide to New York City, add a dynamic silhouette to the city's skyline. Becoming an official city landmark in 2010, 500 Fifth Avenue stands as a timeless fusion of history and ingenuity. Fast forward to late 2023, the building embarked on an exciting new phase of its storied legacy, initiating a project to rejuvenate its 16 elevator interiors. Collaborating with elevator contractor Schindler Elevator, consultant VDA, and architecture firm Fogarty Finger Architecture, responsible for the design of the elevators, United Vertical Group undertook the ambitious task of manufacturing and installing these elevators. The outcome? A seamless blend of heritage and modern elegance, where each detail reflects a thoughtful design vision.
The newly refurbished elevators at 500 Fifth Avenue exude refined luxury and meticulous craftsmanship. A glimpse upward reveals a drop ceiling finished with dark oxidized bronze featuring an intricate custom geometric design, setting a tone of sophistication from the onset. Lighting plays a pivotal role in enhancing the ambiance. Strategically positioned USAI Mini 3" Round recessed downlights deliver just the right amount of illumination. Paired with Lumini Kendo M linear perimeter lights bordering the drop ceiling, a soft, flattering glow accentuates the elevator's elegant lines. As one's gaze shifts to the walls, panels of Fluted Back Painted Glass come into view, meticulously enveloped in bronze. The rear and side walls, adorned with two full-length panels, give a subtle sense of opulence. Continuing the theme of dark oxidized bronze and creating cohesion, the doors, fronts, friezes, and reveals seamlessly integrate with the overall aesthetic, paying homage to the building's Art Deco heritage. Completing this design is a custom-designed geometric terrazzo floor, a true work of art in its own right. Featuring Sea Urchin terrazzo by Floorazzo, the floor is embellished with bronze inlays, adding depth and texture to the space.
As the doors gracefully slide open and you step into this captivating space, enveloped by the harmonious blend of past and present, it's clear that 500 Fifth Avenue remains a steadfast beacon of architectural excellence in the ever-evolving tapestry of New York City's skyline. Each meticulous detail weaves a narrative of heritage, elegance, and timeless style, culminating in an immersive experience that celebrates the building's enduring legacy.
