A prominent 45-story commercial skyscraper at 1211 Avenue of The Americas in Midtown, Manhattan, is set for a significant modernization. New renderings reveal an extensive renovation plan that will transform the building's main entrance, lobby, and tenant amenities. The project aims to update the 1.9-million-square-foot structure, which currently serves as the headquarters for News Corp. and Fox Corporation.
The redesign, led by Kohn Pedersen Fox and developed by RXR, focuses on creating a more contemporary and welcoming environment. This includes a striking new glass curtain wall, an expanded landscaped plaza, and a suite of high-end amenities designed to meet modern business and wellness needs.
Key Takeaways
- 1211 Avenue of The Americas is undergoing a major renovation.
- Kohn Pedersen Fox is the design architect for the project.
- The renovation includes a new glass entrance, updated lobby, and expanded plaza.
- New amenities will feature wellness facilities, a tenant lounge, and flexible meeting spaces.
- The building is home to News Corp. and Fox Corporation headquarters.
Modernizing the Exterior and Entrance
The most visible change to the skyscraper will be its modernized main entrance. Renderings show a sleek glass curtain wall that will enclose a soaring lobby space. This design choice aims to enhance natural light and create a more open, inviting facade along Sixth Avenue.
A broad canopy will wrap around the corner of the building, featuring an expanded version of the skyscraper’s current news ticker. This element will maintain a connection to the building's identity as a media hub while integrating a contemporary aesthetic.
Building Snapshot
- Address: 1211 Avenue of The Americas, Midtown, Manhattan
- Height: 45 stories
- Size: 1.9 million square feet
- Key Tenants: News Corp., Fox Corporation
Redesigned Plaza and Public Space
The renovations extend beyond the building's immediate entrance. The landscaped plaza along Sixth Avenue is also slated for significant revisions. These plans include new greenery and the addition of a sculpture, transforming the outdoor space into a more engaging and visually appealing area for tenants and the public.
The current conditions of the skyscraper's base, as seen in recent street view images, show a more traditional design. The proposed changes represent a substantial upgrade, aligning the building with the contemporary architectural trends seen throughout Midtown Manhattan.
Interior Transformations and High-End Amenities
Inside, Kohn Pedersen Fox is also involved in the interior design of the lobby and the modernization of the elevator systems. The goal is to create a seamless transition from the modernized exterior to a sophisticated interior environment.
The renovation will introduce a wide array of new office amenities, catering to the evolving needs of modern workplaces. These additions aim to enhance tenant experience, productivity, and well-being.
"The redesign focuses on creating a dynamic, high-performance environment that supports both productivity and personal well-being for all tenants," stated a representative familiar with the project's vision.
Midtown's Evolving Landscape
Midtown Manhattan continues to be a hub for major commercial developments and renovations. Recent projects in the area include the near completion of the Rolex Headquarters at 665 Fifth Avenue and the progress on 520 Fifth Avenue's facade. These ongoing efforts underscore a broader trend of modernizing and enhancing the city's iconic commercial real estate.
Wellness and Social Spaces
A key focus of the renovation is the integration of wellness facilities. The building will feature a dedicated spa area, offering modern amenities such as infrared saunas, red-light therapy, meditation rooms, massage pods, and recovery stations. These facilities reflect a growing emphasis on employee health and stress reduction in corporate environments.
For social interaction and casual dining, plans include a tenant lounge with a coffee bar and seating. Grab-and-go food options will provide convenient choices for busy professionals. These spaces are designed to foster community and offer flexible areas for breaks and informal meetings.
- Tenant lounge with coffee bar and seating area
- Grab-and-go food options
- Spa with infrared saunas, red-light therapy, meditation rooms, massage pods, and recovery stations
Flexible Work and Event Facilities
The renovation also addresses the demand for adaptable meeting and event spaces. A new boardroom will be available for executive meetings and private dining, offering a sophisticated setting for high-level discussions.
Additionally, a flexible lounge area will include golf simulators, providing a unique recreational option for tenants. For exclusive gatherings, a speakeasy is planned, designed for private events, tastings, and other special occasions. These diverse spaces aim to offer tenants a complete range of amenities within the building.
New Amenities Include:
- Executive boardroom
- Flexible lounge with golf simulators
- Exclusive speakeasy
- Comprehensive wellness spa
Connectivity and Future Outlook
The skyscraper benefits from direct access to public transportation, with an entrance to the 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center subway station located directly outside. This provides convenient access to the B, D, F, and M trains, enhancing the building's appeal for businesses and their employees.
While new renderings offer a clear vision for the renovated 1211 Avenue of The Americas, a specific construction timeline for these upgrades has not yet been announced. The project signals a strong commitment to modernizing one of Midtown's significant commercial properties, ensuring it remains a competitive and desirable location for major corporations in the heart of New York City.