The next phase of renovations at Manhattan’s historic Rockefeller Plaza will be reviewed by the Landmarks Preservation Commission in a public hearing on Tuesday, June 30. Tishman Speyer, current owner of the complex, has proposed a multitude of alterations as part of a masterplan conceived by Gabellini Sheppard Associates. This newly revealed component is specifically focused on the east lobby and mezzanine at 45 Rockefeller Plaza, also known as the International Building and 630 Fifth Avenue.
Beginning with the east lobby, the architects have proposed recessed lighting systems and fixtures throughout, a new artistic background wall, seating areas behind the reception space, newly illuminated display windows with updated mirror paneling, and refinished terrazzo including the thorough removal of wax buildup.
45 Rockefeller Plaza – Existing (left) and proposed east lobby and mezzanine (right) looking west (Gabellini Sheppard Associates)
45 Rockefeller Plaza – Existing (left) and proposed east lobby and mezzanine (right) – Gabellini Sheppard Associates
For the raised mezzanine, the architects have proposed the installation of horizontal lighting and soffit fascia as well as similarly recessed lighting systems and fixtures compared to plans for the lower lobby. The architects have also proposed new lighting and curved brass niches below the existing Michio Ihara sculpture, which is sometimes referred to as Light and Movement, though not officially titled by the artist.
At this phase of project planning, the team has not revealed an anticipated launch of construction within 45 Rockefeller Plaza.
Existing (left) and proposed Michio Ihara sculpture at 45 Rockefeller Plaza
Site plan of ground floor spaces at 45 Rockefeller Plaza – (Gabellini Sheppard Associates)
Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail
Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews
Of course not, I have to connect with New York YIMBY for the reasons why; development: Hello New York YIMBY.
I worked in this building on the 27th and 28th floors for the book publisher Simon and Schuster in the 1960’s..When you walked into this building then, you felt you were in a special place..I was passing by a few months ago and stopped to walk thru the lobby, it felt like being in mausoleum. Needs a major refresh.