American Radiator Building by Raymond Hood & J Andre Fouilhoux

In the heart of New York City, near Bryant Park, stands the American Radiator Building, a 23-story skyscraper that masterfully blends Gothic splendor with Art Deco elegance. Completed in 1924 and designed by Raymond Hood, J. André Fouilhoux, and the firm Howells & Hood, this iconic building initially served as the headquarters for the American Radiator Company, symbolizing the power and modernity of this industrial titan.
Raymond Hood, renowned for later works like Rockefeller Center, and J. André Fouilhoux aimed to create a structure that was both functional and beautiful. Their design for the American Radiator Building marked a significant departure from the restrained, classical styles that dominated the early 20th-century skyline. Embracing the burgeoning Art Deco movement and infusing it with Gothic elements, they crafted a unique architectural language.
Construction began in 1923 and was completed the following year. Standing at 338 feet (103 meters), it was one of the tallest structures in New York at the time. The building's exterior, clad in black bricks, is a striking departure from the more common limestone or terracotta facades. These specially glazed bricks catch and reflect light, making the building shimmer in the sun. The black color represents coal, the primary fuel for radiators, while gold accents and decorative elements create a sense of opulence, highlighting the building’s vertical lines.
The building's setbacks, mandated by the 1916 Zoning Resolution, are adorned with gold-leaf ornamentation, enhancing its elegance. At night, the illuminated crown casts a golden glow, an iconic feature of New York’s skyline. Inside, the American Radiator Building continues the theme of luxury and modernity. The lobby is a marvel of Art Deco design, featuring polished marble floors, rich wood paneling, and intricate metalwork.
Praised as an architectural triumph, the building quickly became a symbol of New York’s innovation. The American Radiator Company occupied it until 1937, using it as its headquarters and a showcase for its products. One of the most famous depictions of the building is in Georgia O’Keeffe’s 1927 painting "Radiator Building - Night, New York," capturing its luminous crown against a dark sky.
In 1988, the building was transformed into the Bryant Park Hotel, preserving its historic character while updating its interior for modern luxury. Architectural historian Paul Goldberger described it as “one of New York’s great architectural treasures,” highlighting its unique blend of Gothic and Art Deco styles. Ada Louise Huxtable also praised its significance in New York’s architectural evolution, calling it “a landmark of architectural daring and elegance.”
The American Radiator Building remains a beloved icon, cherished for its distinctive design, rich history, and cultural impact. It serves as a reminder of New York’s architectural legacy and the timeless beauty of a structure that seamlessly blends Gothic grandeur with Art Deco sophistication.
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[@MrMountainchris]

My favorite building in NYC.

[@edwardcone6860]

Thank you for this illuminating video, much enjoyed, much appreciated!

[@franklinshouse8719]

That is one beautiful building.