Building a Legend: The Fascinating Story of the Empire State Building's Architecture

Known for its elegance, the Empire State Building is an iconic fixture of the New York City skyline and has been the most popular tourist attraction for decades. Designed in the art deco style of pre-World War II, the Empire State Building is the tallest in New York and is famous for its architectural style, historical significance, and the marvelous views it offers of the city and its skyline.

The attraction is more than just a skyscraper, it is a symbol of power, progress, and ambition. Let us take a look at the incredible story of the construction and architecture of the Empire State Building and how it became a symbol of New York City.

Stages of Construction

Early Stages

The idea of the Empire State Building came into being as a competition between Walter Chrysler of the Chrysler Corporation and John Jakob Raskob of General Motors, who competed to see who would build the taller building. Chrysler had begun work on the famous Chrysler Building. Meanwhile, Raskob had assembled a group of investors, who had chosen the architecture firm Shreve, Lamb, and Harmon Associates to design the building.

The Empire State Building was designed by William F. Lamb and it was designed from the top down. The excavation of the site began in 1930 and the construction of the building began the same year on March 17th.

Construction of an Architectural Masterpiece

The construction of the Empire State Building began in January 1930 and it was done at a remarkable pace of just 1 year and 45 days for it to be completed. The Empire State Building opened officially on May 1, 1931, making it the tallest building in the world during the time, surpassing the Chrysler Building. The frame of the building grew four-and-a-half stories per week.

The construction was split into two phases, the first being the excavation and foundation of the building and the second one being the interior and superstructure. There were a lot of challenges that were involved in the construction of the landmark. But despite facing these challenges, the project team ensured pushing forward by utilizing the latest technology and materials that were available during the time. This was a revolutionary achievement, being the first building to use steel frame technology.

Later Additions

Today, the 200-foot crowning spire illuminates with tower lights that dazzle with numerous combos of colors. A lot of the Empire State Building’s key design elements, right from its lighting to glasswork to the marble interiors had weathered. A lot of these defining pieces were in danger of being missing.

Currently, more than 12,000 feet of historic glassware is recreated with great attention to detail by historians and artisans. The damaged marble is removed and replaced with new stone. Standing at 102 stories height, the Empire State Building was the tallest for nearly 40 years after its completion. Today, it continues to be the world’s great tower and an architectural wonder with various additions like the 102nd-floor observation deck, new entrance, antenna, restoration of the lobby, exhibits, LED lights, and tower lights.

With a soaring height and great design, the Empire State Building has the world’s most beautiful Art Deco design and is a living piece of New York’s history and a symbol of the city’s culture. Efforts continue to be in place for a more sustainable Empire State Building with new energy-efficient technology put in place with zero compromises in its beauty and design ensuring the structure continues to be a global icon for generations.