745 Fifth Avenue: A Timeless Architectural Gem in Manhattan
Welcome to 745 Fifth Avenue, an iconic commercial building located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. Known for its elegant Art Deco design and rich history, this landmark stands proudly at the southeast corner of 58th Street and Fifth Avenue, surrounded by some of the city’s most prestigious landmarks, including Central Park and the Plaza District. Let’s explore the fascinating story, architectural brilliance, and cultural significance of this historic skyscraper.
Architect and Vision
Architects: Ely Jacques Kahn & Robert Allan Jacobs
Architectural Style: Art Moderne (a subset of Art Deco)
Designed by the renowned architectural duo Ely Jacques Kahn and Robert Allan Jacobs, 745 Fifth Avenue is a masterpiece of the Art Moderne style. Completed in 1929, the building reflects the optimism and modernity of early 20th-century New York. Kahn and Jacobs, celebrated for shaping Manhattan’s skyline, envisioned a structure that would seamlessly blend functionality with timeless elegance.
Art Moderne, a streamlined evolution of Art Deco, emphasizes sleek, horizontal lines and unadorned surfaces. At 745 Fifth Avenue, this style is evident in its continuous rows of windows, limestone facade, and a three-part composition: a grand base with arched window bays, a midsection of repetitive window patterns, and a striking top section with set-back terraces. Together, these elements create a harmonious balance of form and function.
Historical Background
The site of 745 Fifth Avenue has a storied past that mirrors the evolution of Manhattan itself:
- 1883: The Cornelius Vanderbilt II Mansion, a symbol of Gilded Age opulence, was constructed on this site.
- 1926: The mansion was demolished to make way for commercial development.
- 1928: Real estate developer Benjamin Winter Sr. acquired the land and built “The Winter Palace,” a commercial building housing high-end retailers like FAO Schwarz.
- 1930s: Andrew Goodman purchased the property, integrating it into his family’s luxury department store, Bergdorf Goodman.
- 1931: The current Art Deco building was completed, designed specifically to house Bergdorf Goodman’s Men’s Store.
Over the decades, 745 Fifth Avenue has undergone several renovations, including a $200 million modernization project in 2013, which preserved its historical charm while updating its retail spaces for contemporary use.
Architectural Significance
745 Fifth Avenue is more than just a building—it’s a testament to New York City’s architectural and cultural evolution. Its Art Moderne design captures the spirit of the 1920s and 1930s, a period marked by innovation and ambition. The building’s limestone facade, bronze trimmings, and horizontal window bands exude sophistication, while its set-back terraces offer a nod to the city’s zoning laws of the era, which encouraged tiered designs to allow sunlight to reach the streets below.
The building’s location on Fifth Avenue, one of the world’s most famous shopping corridors, further enhances its prestige. It serves as a defining feature of the Plaza District, contributing to the area’s reputation for luxury and affluence.
Building Details and Statistics
- Address: 745 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10151, United States
- Neighborhood: Plaza District, Midtown Manhattan
- Borough: Manhattan
- Zip Code: 10151
- Height: Approximately 300 feet (91.44 meters)
- Floors: 16
- Total Commercial Space: Approximately 330,000 square feet
- Primary Use: Commercial (retail and office spaces)
The building’s ground floor is home to high-end retail stores, including the iconic Bergdorf Goodman Men’s Store, while the upper floors house offices for various businesses and corporations.
Cultural and Urban Significance
Situated in the prestigious Plaza District, 745 Fifth Avenue is surrounded by some of New York City’s most famous landmarks, including Central Park, Grand Army Plaza, and The Plaza Hotel. This neighborhood is synonymous with luxury, featuring upscale hotels, luxury residential buildings, and flagship stores for world-renowned brands.
The building’s proximity to Central Park enhances its visual and cultural appeal, creating a seamless blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. As a New York City Landmark, 745 Fifth Avenue stands as a symbol of the city’s architectural heritage and its enduring commitment to excellence.
FAQs About 745 Fifth Avenue
Q1: What is the significance of 745 Fifth Avenue?
745 Fifth Avenue, also known as the Bergdorf Goodman Building, is a historic landmark that embodies the elegance and innovation of early 20th-century architecture. Its Art Moderne design, prime location on Fifth Avenue, and association with luxury retailers like Bergdorf Goodman make it a cornerstone of Manhattan’s cultural and commercial identity.
Q2: Can I visit 745 Fifth Avenue?
Yes! Visitors are welcome to explore the building’s retail spaces, including the flagship Bergdorf Goodman Men’s Store. Here, you’ll find a curated selection of designer clothing, accessories, and home furnishings, all housed within a beautifully preserved Art Deco setting.
Q3: What makes the building’s architecture unique?
The building’s Art Moderne style sets it apart, with its streamlined design, horizontal window bands, and limestone facade. Its three-part structure—a grand base, a repetitive midsection, and a set-back top—creates a visually striking silhouette that has become a defining feature of Fifth Avenue.
Interesting Facts About 745 Fifth Avenue
- The building was constructed on the former site of the Cornelius Vanderbilt II Mansion, one of the largest private homes ever built in Manhattan.
- It was one of the few buildings in Midtown Manhattan to be designated a New York City Landmark, highlighting its historical and architectural significance.
- The 2013 renovation project preserved many of the building’s original Art Deco elements while modernizing its retail and office spaces.
- The building has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its status as a cultural icon.
Explore More NYC Landmarks
745 Fifth Avenue is just one of many architectural treasures in New York City. Whether you’re a visitor, a student, or a local, there’s always more to discover.
