One Astor Plaza: A Modernist Icon in Times Square
One Astor Plaza is a towering commercial skyscraper located in the vibrant heart of Times Square, Manhattan, New York City. Rising 745 feet (227 meters) above the bustling streets, this 54-story building is a striking example of modernist architecture and a key fixture in the city’s iconic skyline. Completed in 1972, it occupies an entire city block at 1515 Broadway and serves as a hub for business, entertainment, and culture.
Designed by renowned architect Der Scutt of Ely J. Kahn & Jacobs, One Astor Plaza reflects the architectural shift of the mid-20th century toward minimalism and functionality. Its sleek design, prime location, and cultural significance make it a must-know landmark for architecture enthusiasts, NYC visitors, and students alike.
Waldorf-Astoria Park Avenue Entrance
Photo by Ajay Suresh, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Architect: Der Scutt of Ely J. Kahn & Jacobs
The visionary behind One Astor Plaza’s design was Der Scutt, a prominent architect known for his modernist approach. Working with the firm Ely J. Kahn & Jacobs, Scutt created a building that diverged from the ornate styles of earlier Times Square structures. Instead, he embraced clean lines, contemporary materials like glass and steel, and a functional aesthetic that perfectly suited the evolving urban landscape of the 1970s.
Architectural Style: Modernist Simplicity
One Astor Plaza exemplifies the modernist architectural style, characterized by its minimalist design and emphasis on functionality. The building’s façade features broad concrete piers and narrow windows, creating a bold yet understated look. This design choice not only sets it apart from the more decorative buildings of its era but also allows it to blend seamlessly into Manhattan’s ever-evolving skyline.
The use of modern materials like steel and glass reflects the architectural trends of the time, while the building’s towering height and clean lines make it a standout example of urban modernism.
Key Facts and Statistics
- Height: 745 feet (227 meters)
- Floors: 54 above ground, with additional underground levels
- Square Footage: Approximately 1.3 million sq ft (120,000 m²) of office space
- Address: 1515 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
- Neighborhood: Times Square, Manhattan
- Zip Code: 10036
- Construction Completed: 1972
- Architectural Firm: Ely J. Kahn & Jacobs
Location: The Heart of Times Square
One Astor Plaza is situated in the bustling Times Square neighborhood, often referred to as “The Crossroads of the World.” This area is synonymous with energy, entertainment, and culture, featuring Broadway theaters, world-class shopping, iconic restaurants, and dazzling digital billboards. The building’s location makes it a prime destination for businesses and a cultural landmark for visitors.
A Dual Purpose: Business and Entertainment
One Astor Plaza serves as both a commercial hub and an entertainment venue. Its primary function is to provide office space for major businesses, with its most notable tenant being ViacomCBS, the media conglomerate that owns MTV, Showtime, and other networks. The building also houses MTV’s studios, where many iconic music programs were filmed.
Adding to its cultural significance, the building is home to the Minskoff Theatre, one of Broadway’s premier venues. Since 1997, the Minskoff Theatre has hosted Disney’s The Lion King, one of the most beloved and longest-running Broadway productions.
Historical Background: From Vision to Reality
The story of One Astor Plaza begins in the late 1960s when William Waldorf Astor envisioned a skyscraper that would transform Times Square into a global business hub. Construction began in 1970 under the leadership of Der Scutt, and the building officially opened its doors on May 12, 1972.
Key milestones in its history include:
- Late 1960s: Planning phase led by William Waldorf Astor
- 1970: Construction begins
- 1972: Building completed and opened
- 1973: Minskoff Theatre opens, adding a cultural dimension to the building
Over the years, One Astor Plaza has evolved to meet the needs of its tenants and visitors. The lobby, once home to Tower Records, now houses the Hard Rock Cafe, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Interesting Facts About One Astor Plaza
- Cultural Impact: The Minskoff Theatre, located within the building, has hosted numerous Broadway productions, with The Lion King being its most famous show.
- Media Hub: MTV’s studios, located in the building’s lower levels, were the birthplace of many iconic music programs, cementing the building’s place in pop culture history.
- Underground Connections: The building features four underground levels, including access to an MTA subway station that serves several lines, making it highly accessible.
- Modernist Landmark: One Astor Plaza represents a turning point in NYC architecture, marking the shift from ornate designs to sleek, functional modernism.
FAQs About One Astor Plaza
Q1: What is One Astor Plaza?
One Astor Plaza is a 54-story skyscraper in Times Square, Manhattan. It serves as a commercial office building and entertainment venue, housing ViacomCBS headquarters, MTV Studios, and the Minskoff Theatre.
Q2: Can I visit One Astor Plaza as a tourist?
While the office spaces are not open to the public, visitors can enjoy Broadway shows at the Minskoff Theatre or dine at the Hard Rock Cafe located in the building’s lobby.
Q3: What makes One Astor Plaza architecturally significant?
Its modernist design, characterized by clean lines and functional aesthetics, represents a pivotal moment in NYC’s architectural history. It also stands as a cultural landmark due to its role in media and entertainment.
