The Lipstick Building, located at 885 Third Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, is one of New York City‘s most recognizable and unique skyscrapers. Known for its striking cylindrical shape and bold red exterior, the building’s distinctive design has earned it its playful moniker, “The Lipstick Building.” As one of the standout pieces of architecture in the city’s skyline, the Lipstick Building blends modern design with a sense of whimsy and flair that makes it instantly memorable.
A Unique Design
Completed in 1986, the Lipstick Building was designed by renowned architect Kevin Roche of the architectural firm Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo and Associates. The building’s design is notable for its innovative use of shape and color. Standing at 453 feet (138 meters) tall with 34 floors, the Lipstick Building stands out among its Midtown neighbors due to its cylindrical, slightly tapered structure. Its red-tinted façade and the rounded, curved top resemble a giant lipstick tube, a playful yet sophisticated design choice that has become synonymous with the building itself.
The building’s structure features a cylindrical core with a distinctive concave shape that opens up space for a dramatic and expansive lobby. The red exterior is made of polished granite, which gives it a sleek and glossy finish. The cylindrical design contrasts with the typically boxy shapes of nearby skyscrapers, making it an architectural anomaly that attracts attention from both locals and tourists alike.
The Lipstick Building’s Architecture
The Lipstick Building is an example of postmodern architecture, which emerged in the 1970s and 1980s as a reaction against the minimalism and rigid designs of modernism. This style embraces bold colors, unconventional shapes, and a sense of playfulness, which is reflected in the Lipstick Building’s design. Its use of bright red as the primary color, combined with its distinctive curves, sets it apart from the more traditional glass-and-steel towers of Midtown Manhattan.
The building’s most famous feature, its cylindrical design, was revolutionary in its time. By stepping away from traditional rectilinear forms, the Lipstick Building created a striking visual effect on the city’s skyline, drawing attention and admiration. The building’s design also allows for a more efficient use of space, offering large open floor plates that are ideal for office tenants.
The Lipstick Building also features a unique glass atrium that serves as the entrance, allowing natural light to flood into the interior. This atrium, combined with the sweeping curves of the exterior, creates a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere for those entering the building.
Tenant Space and Office Use
The Lipstick Building has primarily served as an office tower since its completion. Its open floor plans and spacious interiors have made it an attractive location for various businesses, from law firms to tech companies. One of the building’s advantages is its location within Midtown Manhattan, an area renowned for its concentration of corporate headquarters, financial institutions, and professional services. The building’s proximity to major transportation hubs, such as Grand Central Terminal and the 59th Street Bridge, ensures that it is easily accessible for those working in the building as well as visitors.
Over the years, the Lipstick Building has become home to numerous prominent tenants. Its distinctive design and location in the heart of Manhattan make it a sought-after address for companies looking to make a statement while benefiting from the accessibility and prestige of Midtown East.
Notable Incidents and Controversies
While the Lipstick Building is admired for its design and architectural innovation, it has also been the subject of some controversy. In 2003, the building gained notoriety for being the site of a Ponzi scheme orchestrated by financier Bernard Madoff. Madoff’s firm, Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC, operated from the building for many years before the scheme was uncovered. The scandal made international headlines and cast a shadow over the building’s reputation for a time.
Despite this controversy, the Lipstick Building has largely retained its position as one of New York City‘s most famous and visually striking structures. It continues to be a key part of Midtown Manhattan’s diverse and eclectic architectural landscape.
The Lipstick Building’s Legacy
The Lipstick Building has become an integral part of New York City’s architectural legacy. Its distinctive appearance has cemented its place in the city’s skyline, and it has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements. The building’s unique design continues to stand as a testament to the creativity and innovation that defines New York City’s architectural history.
The Lipstick Building also symbolizes the vibrant and diverse nature of Midtown Manhattan, where modernity and tradition often coexist side by side. While it may not be as tall as some of its neighboring skyscrapers, the Lipstick Building’s bold and playful design ensures that it remains one of the most memorable buildings in New York City.
Conclusion
The Lipstick Building is a striking and significant example of postmodern architecture in Midtown Manhattan. Its cylindrical shape, bright red façade, and playful design have made it one of New York City’s most iconic skyscrapers. Despite the controversies that have occasionally surrounded it, the building’s unique design, innovative use of space, and prominent location ensure its lasting presence as a landmark in the city’s architectural landscape. Whether admired for its bold aesthetics or its place in pop culture, the Lipstick Building remains a quintessential symbol of modern New York.
