Recent images on our Forum reveal the first glimpses of cladding work underway at the site of the much-anticipated 53W53, the Jean Nouvel-designed, 77-storey tower currently on the rise in Midtown Manhattan. Having grown by a few storeys since our last update, the Hines-developed tower adjacent to the MoMA has been gradually progressing upwards. Now its distinctive cement superstructrue is being covered by a sleek black curtain wall while its cement cross-bracing is traced by grey metal panelling. 

Cladding underway at 53W53, image by Forum contributor towerpower123

Viewed from the street, the image above highlights the extent of cladding work now completed. While glass panels fill in the voids, a metal casing will cap the cement superstructure, and the combined effect will provide the tower with its signature look. 

Close-up view of cladding, image by Forum contributor towerpower123

Viewed up close, it is clear that the cladding will have a textural quality, and the interplay of glass and metal will give a three-dimensional element to the overall design of the completed tower. 

53W53 rising high above the adjacent MoMA, image by Forum contributor towerpower123

Already rising high above its neighbour, the 1005-foot 53W53 will eventually soar above the MoMA, becoming a signature set piece on the Midtown Manhattan skyline. Below, a rendering of the finished product gives an idea of how the project will appear upon completion in 2018. 

53W53 as it will appear upon completion, image via Hines

SkyriseCities will be sure to return to this project as progress continues. For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.

Related Companies:  Hines