Seagram Building Guide from New York Hotels
The Seagram Building, a New York landmark, was designed by Philip Johnson, developed by Joseph Seagram's & Sons and the main architect was Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Completed in 1958, this was Mies van der Rohe's dream come true, because in it he has delivered his vision of simplicity and clarity. The 38-story International style tower was later to become the most copied office building.
Upon completion, Seagram became the world's most expensive skyscraper. The steel structure of the building is covered with tinted bronze glass. The construction used the most expensive materials and opulent interior decor. The use of bronze, travertine and expensive green marble added to the construction cost and resulted in a work later celebrated as a city landmark.
The front space of the building is used as a gathering area and in the holiday season it is decorated festively. The city adapted and promoted the idea of "privately owned public spaces" from the Seagram and advised other builders to come up with such spaces.
Seagram's facade reflects a calm sense of strength. Inside, you will find 800,000 square feet of office space, works by Picasso and fine dining options. Visitors can stop by on Tuesdays for a free guided tour of the building.
You will marvel the famous on-site Four Seasons Restaurant (212-754-9494), also designed by Mies and Johnson. You can also enter the restaurant from the 52nd street. You can still enjoy a meal in 1959 ambience at the same place, where John F. Kennedy's 46th birthday party was celebrated. Men are required to don a jacket, while women must be formally dressed too. While you are at the Seagram Building, go down to the Brasserie Restaurant in the basement.
Neighboring architectural landmarks include St. Patrick's Cathedral, The Villard Houses at the New York Plaza Hotel and the Trump Tower. Nearby, The Waldorf Towers is a historic hotel decked in a charming European style. The foyer is lit up with grand French chandeliers, and space is glamorized by exquisite draperies and furnishing. From The Benjamin you can stroll down to the Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall. The in-house restaurant speaks of modern elegance, while diverse dining options can be discovered in the immediate neighborhood.
Address:
375 Park Ave,
New York, NY 10022
Tel: (212) 572-7404
Trains:
6 to 51st Street
E or F to Lexington Avenue