2K 
Richard Meier & Partners Architects unveiled a raft of renderings last fall that shined a spotlight on their tallest project in New York City. Since that time, the minimalistic building has begun its 42-storey ascent above 685 First Avenue, and crews have also started to slap on the sharp black glazing that will give the skyscraper its elegant sheen.
Developer Sheldon Solow's East River Realty Development is responsible for bringing the tower to life on a 32,365-square-foot parcel between East 39th and East 40th Streets. Characterized by an all-black taut curtainwall and articulated by metal panel accents in the form of balconies, canopies and corners, the building's streamlined parti establishes a dialogue with the Modernist United Nations Headquarters located a few blocks to the north.
Retail space and an expansive double-height lobby define the ground floor, while a number of amenities — including an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre, game room, and lounge — are spread across the second floor. The building's 408-unit rental component will occupy levels three through 26, with the remaining levels containing 148 condominiums. The two residential sections will be visually delineated by an architectural cutout at the 27th and 28th floors.
"This is a milestone project for us, as our first all-black glass and metal panel building, the tallest tower in New York City by our firm, and a complete Richard Meier & Partners project including both architecture and interiors," said Dukho Yeon, design partner-in-charge at Richard Meier & Partners, in a November press release. "The black glass curtain wall is a departure from our trademark white palette. When this intriguing challenge was proposed by developer Sheldon Solow, we accepted it with great enthusiasm and curiosity. We approach all our designs thoughtfully and with an open mind, and with this project we have remained true to our fundamental principles —distinctiveness in scale, proportion, light and power. That is the legacy of our white and clear glass buildings, and the design of 685 First Avenue foregrounds and celebrates these same elements."
Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment in the field provided at the bottom of this page.
