More than two years since our last update, and progress at the site of the SHoP Architects-designed 111 West 57th Street has moved along significantly, the soon to be 438-metre supertall residential high-rise now a dominant figure upon the Midtown Manhattan skyline. Set to become home to just 60 units spread across 80 storeys, the ultra-luxury tower will feature a collection of sizeable duplexes and full-floor suites, all of which will have stunning views of either Central Park or the surrounding cityscape. 

111 West 57th Street, tucked onto its narrow lot, image by Edward Skira

Tucked onto a tiny, 18-metre wide lot, 111 West 57th Street has been placed atop the historic 1925 Steinway Hall, the bulk of which will eventually be restored and reinstated at the base of the tower to be used as apartments. With listings going up to $100 million, this project will represent some of the most expensive real estate in the city. 

Close-up view of the architectural detail work, image by Edward Skira

Viewed in close-up detail above, the facade of the tower will be composed almost entirely of finely sculpted terra cotta cladding accented by bronze filigree for an effect evocative of a modern take on gothic ecclesiastical tracery. Featuring a series of setbacks, the tower will taper gradually towards the top, making for a highly elegant silhouette. 

111 West 57th Street, urban context view, image by Edward Skira

Captured looking north along 6th Ave, 111 West 57th Street cuts an imposing figure, the tower itself still several storeys away from completion. Once complete, the development will be one of the slimmest in the world, the inclusion of a 800-ton tuned mass damper to be installed to help with threat of earthquakes and high winds. 

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.