New York City is known for many things and when it comes to architecture, there’s something for everyone. During the last century, for example, almost every major architect has played a part in creating the New York skyline you can see today. Some of the most popular architectural landmarks have to be the Grand Central Terminal and the Empire State Building,but there’s plenty more for architecture lovers to see.If you want to stray away from the crowds and tourists, here are the most notable districts to visit in NYC.
- The Lowline
Have you ever visited an underground park? There’s one in New York City on the Lower East Side. An abandoned and disused underground trolley terminal was transformed with the help of solar technology. Pay The Lowline a visit and enjoy a few moments of respite in the middle of an urban environment.
2. Broadway
Broadway is, of course, best known for its lavish shows, and millions of people visit every year to experience some of the best theater and musicals. Getting hold of Broadway tickets is easy, and you’ll find the theater district exciting and a great day or night out. Pay attention to the numerous lights, the billboards and the old, traditional buildings around you. Combine two great arts and have a marvelous time.
3. World Trade Center Transportation Hub
Designed by Santiago Calatrava,this arched, elliptical structure, also called the Oculus, is 350 feet long and 115 feet wide, rising to a height of 96 feet at its apex. It is constructed using steel ribs that look like outspread wings.
4. Queensboro Bridge
Anyone who picturesa bridge in New York is bound to think of the famous Brooklyn Bridge. There is another equally splendid bridge that was opened in 1909. The Queensboro Bridge was designed by American architect Henry Hornbostel and connects Manhattan to Queens.
5. Flatiron Building
This wedge-shaped building was completed in 1902. Designed by architect Daniel Burnham, it perfectly fits the triangular plot where Broadway and Fifth Avenue intersect. There’s nothing overly fancy or ornate about the building, but it’s beautiful in its consistency.
6. The McGraw Hill Building
The features that make this building stand out are its green terracotta ceramic tiles that clad the exterior. It was designed by the same guy who is responsible for the Rockefeller Center and American Standard Building. It is considered by many to be one of NYC’s finest Art Deco masterpieces.
7. General Electric Building
The design of this building is perfectly in keeping with its original occupant. The gothic tower has a crown of lightning bolts, symbolizing radio waves and the power of electricity. It was originally the headquarters of RCA Victor Corporation, manufacturers of record players and radios.
8. IAC Building
What makes this building stand out is its facade of “fritted” glass. The glass has been printed with patterns of ceramic dots, giving it a milky white sheen. It is the headquarters of Inter Active Corp, and was designed by Frank Gehry.
9. 100 Eleventh Avenue
This residential tower stands out thanks to its skin of irregularly sizes windows, making it look like a mosaic. It was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, and it is said to be inspired by an insect’s compound eye and is made up of 1,647 windowpanes.
10. New Museum
Wrapped in silvery, aluminum mesh and looking like a stack of boxes, the New Museum was designed by Tokyo firm SANAA. Itsappearance is a stark contrast to the surrounding neighborhood and completely awe-inspiring.