Ultimate guide to Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building is one of the most iconic and recognizable skyscrapers in New York City, embodying the spirit of the Art Deco architectural style. It was the tallest building in the world for a brief period before the Empire State Building claimed that title in 1931. Its history, design, and influence make it a masterpiece of early 20th-century architecture. This guide provides a comprehensive look at its history, design features, cultural significance, and more.

Chrysler Building History and Construction

• Developer: The Chrysler Building was commissioned by Walter Chrysler, the automotive tycoon and founder of the Chrysler Corporation. Chrysler financed the building personally, with the intent of creating an iconic headquarters for his company.
• Architect: Designed by William Van Alen, the Chrysler Building was completed in 1930. Van Alen was known for his flamboyant, creative designs, and the Chrysler Building was his crowning achievement.
• Construction Timeline: Construction began on September 19, 1928, and was completed on May 27, 1930. The construction took only about two years, which was a marvel for such a complex structure at that time.

Architectural Style

• Art Deco: The Chrysler Building is considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture. This style was popular in the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by bold geometric shapes, intricate details, and the use of modern materials.
• Materials: The building’s exterior is primarily brick, with stainless steel used for ornamentation, especially in the crown. The brickwork was carefully laid to create intricate patterns and textures, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
• Height: At 1,046 feet (318.9 meters), the Chrysler Building was the tallest building in the world upon completion, overtaking the Woolworth Building. However, it held the title for just 11 months before the Empire State Building surpassed it.
• The Spire: A secret weapon in the race to become the world’s tallest building, Van Alen added a 185-foot (56-meter) spire in an unannounced move. It was constructed inside the building and then hoisted to the top, ensuring that the Chrysler Building temporarily won the skyscraper height race.

Chrysler Building Distinctive Features

• Crown: The building’s crown is one of its most iconic features. Made from stainless steel, it consists of seven radiating terraced arches, each decorated with triangular windows. These windows give the appearance of sunbursts, enhancing the visual effect of light reflecting off the metal.
• Gargoyles and Eagles: The gargoyles on the 31st floor are modeled after Chrysler hood ornaments, while the eagles on the 61st floor were inspired by Chrysler’s radiator caps. These elements make the building a tribute not just to Art Deco but to Chrysler’s automotive industry.
• Lobby: The Chrysler Building’s lobby is another Art Deco masterpiece. It features an elaborate mural by artist Edward Trumbull that depicts scenes of aviation, construction, and the machine age. The ceiling mural, known as “Transport and Human Endeavor,” is one of the largest in the world.
• Elevators: Even the elevators reflect the lavish design, with wood paneling and intricate geometric inlays.

Cultural Significance

• Symbol of Innovation: When it was completed, the Chrysler Building represented the rapid growth and technological advancement of New York City. It remains a symbol of the early 20th-century race for height in the city’s skyline.
• Icon of New York City: The building has appeared in countless films, TV shows, and advertisements, cementing its place as one of the most recognizable buildings in the world.
• Skyscraper Competition: The rivalry between the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building reflects a broader competition during the skyscraper boom of the late 1920s and early 1930s, when architects and developers competed to create the tallest structures.

Chrysler Building Fun Facts

• World Record: The Chrysler Building briefly held the title of the tallest building in the world before being overtaken by the Empire State Building.
• Secret Spire: To beat out competitors in the height race, the building’s spire was secretly constructed inside the building and raised in place, adding a final height of 185 feet.
• Automotive Elements: The building’s design incorporates many references to automobiles, from hubcaps and fenders to the eagle-inspired ornamentation, reflecting its connection to Walter Chrysler.
• Non-Residential: Unlike some modern skyscrapers, the Chrysler Building has never been used for residential purposes. It primarily houses offices and businesses.

Chrysler Building Renovations and Preservation

• Landmark Status: In 1976, the Chrysler Building was declared a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its architectural significance and its contribution to the cultural fabric of New York City.
• Recent Ownership Changes: The building has gone through several ownership changes over the years. In 2019, the Abu Dhabi Investment Council and New York real estate firm RFR Holding bought the building.
• Modernization: While the exterior remains much as it was in 1930, the building has undergone various modernizations over the years to maintain its functionality as a commercial office building.

Chrysler Building Visiting the Chrysler Building

• Location: The building is located in Midtown Manhattan, at the intersection of 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue.
• Access: While the building does not offer a public observation deck, the lobby is open to the public, allowing visitors to appreciate its Art Deco splendor.
• Nearby Attractions: Grand Central Terminal, the New York Public Library, and Bryant Park are all located within walking distance, making the Chrysler Building a key stop on any architectural or cultural tour of New York City.

Legacy and Influence

• Art Deco Influence: The Chrysler Building has influenced countless buildings around the world with its Art Deco aesthetic. Its geometric patterns, stainless steel details, and innovative design elements are widely admired and studied by architects and designers.
• In Popular Culture: The Chrysler Building is a recurring feature in movies, TV series, and artwork. Its unmistakable silhouette has appeared in films like Armageddon and Spider-Man, and its cultural presence remains strong in various media.
• Architectural Tours: Many guided tours of New York City architecture feature the Chrysler Building as a key highlight, focusing on its contributions to Art Deco and skyscraper design.

Conclusion

The Chrysler Building remains one of New York City’s most beloved architectural icons. Its bold Art Deco style, connection to the automotive industry, and status as a skyscraper pioneer have earned it a lasting place in architectural history. Despite being surpassed in height by other buildings, its elegance, attention to detail, and cultural resonance keep it as a favorite among New Yorkers and visitors alike.