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Diving Into the Design & Architecture of Edge NYC

As a beacon of modern design nestled within the bustling heart of New York City, Edge stands as a testament to innovative engineering and aesthetic excellence. Stay on this page as we delve into the intricacies of this structural marvel, where modern architecture meets artistic vision, offering an unforgettable experience to all visitors.

Edge NYC Architecture | Quick Facts

Official name: New York Edge 

Function: Observation Deck 

Location: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001

Opening date: March 11, 2020

Height: 1,131 feet (345 meters)

Architectural style: Modern 

Main architects: Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF)

A Modern Architectural Style

Edge NYC architecture

The architectural style of Edge NYC is a striking fusion of modernism and innovation. Its defining features redefine the city's skyline. The angled glass walls, a hallmark of its design, not only serve as windows to breathtaking panoramas but also create an illusion of transparency and lightness.

The triangular platform that extends beyond the building envelope offers visitors a daring vantage point, seemingly defying gravity. This dynamic geometry not only challenges conventional aesthetics but also reflects the dynamic spirit of New York City.

Who Built Edge NYC? 

Edge NYC stands as a testament to the visionary expertise of Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), an acclaimed architectural firm renowned for its mastery in crafting modern skyscrapers. With a global footprint spanning countries such as Japan, Korea, China, Abu Dhabi, Sydney, and South America, KPF has left an indelible mark on skylines around the world. Notably, KPF's prowess is showcased in New York's skyline with another striking creation, One Vanderbilt.

Construction

The construction of Edge NYC, the awe-inspiring pinnacle of Hudson Yards, was a remarkable feat of engineering and creativity. The journey began in 2016, orchestrated by a collaborative effort led by the architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF). This pioneering project aimed to create the tallest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere.

The central feature of Edge's construction was its distinctive triangular platform that extends outward from the main structure. This engineering marvel was assembled in sections and gradually elevated to its breathtaking height, defying conventional architectural norms. The structure's iconic angled glass walls posed both a technical challenge and an aesthetic triumph, allowing for panoramic views while maintaining a sense of transparency and lightness.

By 2019, the building itself was completed, a testament to the relentless dedication of construction teams and the innovative solutions that were devised. However, the journey didn't end there. The final touches included the creation of the observation deck, which began in 2018 and was completed in 2020. This 80-foot outdoor deck offered an unmatched vantage point for visitors to admire the cityscape.

Edge NYC's construction timeline underscores the harmonious blend of daring design, cutting-edge engineering, and the determination to push architectural boundaries. The result is a beacon of modernity that stands tall in the heart of New York City, inviting all to experience the city from an extraordinary perspective.

Edge NYC Architectural Highlights Explained

Edge NYC architecture

Angled Walls

The glass-paneled walls of the observation deck are angled outward, allowing you to get unobstructed views of the skyline. You can also use the angle to your advantage and lean on them, to view the city below like never before. The angled walls, while visually appealing, are also extremely functional. They help stabilize the structure from the constant winds blowing at such a height.

Edge NYC architecture

Glass Floor

A part of the floor of the observation deck is made of glass. The triangular glass portion of the floor is about 225 sq. ft., allowing you to look down 100 stories at the city streets of Manhattan below you. This exhilarating feature is a testament to the modern engineering techniques used to create a unique experience at Edge. Walking on the glass floor, you get an almost surreal sensation of hovering over the urban landscape below.

Edge NYC architecture

Skyline Seats

Perched at an elevated level, the Skyline Seats at Edge is a truly captivating feature that takes the observation deck experience to an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort. These specially designed seating areas give you the opportunity to relax and immerse yourself in the stunning surrounding vistas. Positioned along the angled glass walls of the observation deck, the Skyline Seats also offer unobstructed views of the city below.

Edge NYC architecture

Eastern Point

Positioned at the outermost edge of the observation deck, the Eastern Point provides an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon, creating a sense of openness and connection to the world beyond. Its cantilevered structure creates the illusion of floating above the city, inviting you to step closer to the edge and embrace the exhilarating feeling of being suspended in the air.




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Frequently Asked Questions About the Edge NYC Architecture

What is Edge NYC’s architectural style?

Edge has been designed in a modern and functional manner, with glass paneled walls to provide unobstructed views. 

Who designed Edge?

Edge NYC was designed by the architecture firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), known for its expertise in designing modern skyscrapers.

When was Edge NYC built?

Construction of the Edge observation deck began in 2018, and was completed in 2019. The attraction was opened to the public in 2020.

What is the height of Edge NYC?

The observatory is on the 100th floor of the building, approximately 1,131 feet up in the air. 

What are the main architectural features of Edge?

Edge is exceptional in its design, primarily due to its angled glass walls, glass flooring, and skyline seats.