Virtual Tour: The Architecture of Bryant Park

Before Bryant Park became New York’s “living room” and home to the New York Public Library, it served as a potter’s field, as a reservoir for the Croton water system, and as the site for the 1853 Crystal Palace Exhibition. Following a decline in the social and physical conditions of the area in the 1970s and 1980s, the park underwent a major transformation designed by Hanna/Olin, which was completed in 1991. Today, this successful public and private initiative serves as a model for other open spaces in New York and beyond.

Join AIANY guide Joseph Lengeling, AIA, on this virtual walking tour as we explore the architecture lining the perimeter of Bryant Park. Key projects include the New York Public Library by Carrere and Hastings, the Radiator Building by Howells and Hood, One Bryant Park by Cook+Fox, the Grace Building by SOM, and The Bryant Condominiums and Hotel by David Chipperfield. We’ll also examine numerous support buildings that contribute to the overall context, completing the urban design and the architectural story of the park, as well as NYC zoning law, business improvement districts, and the evolution of skyscraper design.