Construction for the new 54-story RIU hotel skyscraper at 1710 Broadway in Midtown, Manhattan, has progressed to street level. The development, spearheaded by RIU Hotels and Resorts and designed by Moss Architects, will introduce 673 hotel rooms, two large restaurants, and a lounge bar to a prominent corner of Broadway and West 54th Street. This marks a significant milestone in the project, which aims for completion in 2027.
Key Takeaways
- Construction at 1710 Broadway has reached street level in Midtown.
- The 54-story tower will feature 673 hotel rooms, two restaurants, and a lounge bar.
- RIU Hotels and Resorts is developing the 633-foot-tall structure.
- Anticipated completion for the project is set for 2027.
- The site previously housed a commercial building with ties to Bad Boy Entertainment.
Foundation Work Concludes
Workers have completed the foundation work at the 1710 Broadway site. This phase involved extensive excavation below street level. Our last report in July noted ongoing excavation activities. Now, the substructure is visible at street level. Steel rebar, essential for structural integrity, now protrudes across the site. This rebar marks the future locations of the building's perimeter and interior walls. The arrival of formwork and metal shoring indicates that concrete pouring will begin soon.
According to construction observers, the podium levels are expected to take shape before the end of the current year. The entire tower is anticipated to reach its full height, or 'topping out,' sometime in 2026. This timeline suggests a steady progression towards the final completion date.
Project at a Glance
- Address: 1710 Broadway, Midtown, Manhattan
- Height: 633 feet
- Stories: 54
- Hotel Rooms: 673
- Restaurants: Two, each seating 300 guests
- Additional Amenities: Lounge bar
- Development Site Area: 8,848 square feet
- Frontage: 129 feet at Broadway and West 54th Street
Architectural Design and Exterior
Renderings of 1710 Broadway show a distinct architectural design. The skyscraper will feature a multi-story podium at its base. This podium will be clad in glass and light gray metal paneling, creating a modern and sleek appearance. Above the podium, the main tower will ascend with a series of shallow setbacks. These setbacks add visual interest and create a dynamic profile for the building.
The tower's envelope will contrast with the podium. It will feature darker gray paneling, giving it a more imposing presence. Illuminated RIU signage is planned for the very top of the skyscraper. This will make the hotel a recognizable landmark in the Midtown skyline. A tall billboard is also planned near the base of the narrower southern elevation, adding to the commercial vibrancy of the area.
"The design aims to create a striking visual presence that blends modern aesthetics with the vibrant energy of Midtown Manhattan," a representative for Moss Architects stated.
Site History and Previous Proposals
The property at 1710 Broadway has a rich history of development proposals. Before its demolition in 2024, a six-story commercial building occupied the site. This former structure notably housed the offices of Sean "Diddy" Combs' company, Bad Boy Entertainment. Its removal paved the way for the current hotel project.
Over the years, several different plans emerged for 1710 Broadway. In 2014, proposals included a supertall skyscraper, though these plans were eventually scrapped. A year later, in 2015, another plan suggested a 60-story residential and hotel skyscraper. These earlier visions highlight the site's long-standing potential for significant development in a prime Manhattan location.
Ownership Changes
The property has changed hands multiple times. In 2017, Extell Development acquired the site along with 360,000 square feet of air rights for $268 million. Extell later sold the property to the Spanish hotel chain RIU Hotels and Resorts in 2023 for $173 million. This transaction set the stage for the current hotel project.
Accessibility and Expected Completion
The 1710 Broadway site offers excellent access to public transportation. Several subway lines are within walking distance, making it convenient for future hotel guests and visitors. The N, Q, R, and W trains are accessible at the 57th Street–7th Avenue station, located to the northeast of the development. Additionally, the B, D, and E trains serve the 7th Avenue station to the south, at West 53rd Street.
The anticipated completion date for the RIU hotel at 1710 Broadway is slated for 2027. This information is clearly displayed at the construction site. This timeline suggests that the new hotel will be ready to welcome guests within the next few years, adding a significant number of rooms and dining options to Midtown's bustling hospitality scene.
The project represents a continued trend of new hotel development in Manhattan. It aims to cater to both business travelers and tourists visiting New York City. The strategic location and comprehensive amenities are expected to make it a notable addition to the area.