The University Club, 1 West 54th Street

One of McKim, Mead & White’s best New York City buildings and perhaps the best example of the skyscraper-palazzo in the world, The University Club conceals a nine-story building behind a three-story face derived after Florentine models.  Robust yet gracious ornament, strong proportions and a sense of august eminence carry the day. The sumptuous interiors… Continue reading

681 Fifth Avenue

A rare example of a mid-block skyscraper by the celebrated firm of McKim, Mead & White, 681 Fifth Avenue was built in 1912, most recently renovated in 2010 and is a popular location with high fashion and boutique finance tenants. The original ground floors were lost to a hideous façade when Fortunoff was the street… Continue reading

522 Fifth Avenue

A haughty proto-PostModern cube enlivened by a columned entryway and pseudo-Beaux Arts chandeliers (a surprisingly successful touch from architect Jeff Sydness), 522 Fifth Avenue is currently under renovation at the ground floors. The building was originally constructed in 1896 as the famed Sherry Hotel by McKim, Mead & White; it was stripped of its ornate exterior… Continue reading

401-409 Fifth Avenue, The Tiffany’s Building

Possibly the greatest work of commercial architecture in the history of Fifth Avenue, 401-409 Fifth Avenue, formerly the Tiffany’s Building, is a supreme achievement of the American Beaux Arts.  Modeled in parts after both the great Library of Sansovino and the Palazzo Grimani by McKim, Mead & White, the building’s excellent proportions and subtle sophistication… Continue reading

390 Fifth Avenue, The Gorham Building

Along with the Tiffany’s Building a block to the north, 390 Fifth Avenue is one of McKim, Mead & White’s best commercial works.  A stolid yet refined palazzo structure capped by an exquisite copper cornice, the building was designed for the famed Gorham Silver Company and features cartouches and decorative elements designed by Gorham’s own… Continue reading