|
In current age of the ‘superskyscraper,’ the old charm of the New York’s Empire State Building seems to be lost under the soaring cloud-busters of the Middle East and Far East. Advanced in engineering, materials, technology and a shift in financial power has meant that the future will be tallest in Asia. Nevertheless, the iconic Empire State retains its global symbolism in an age where crass materialism appears to dominate the agenda of many of the most ambitios architectural projects. Architecture is not just an ornamental addition to the urban cityscape, but transforms a city’s identity, making it visible to the rest of the world in imagination and style. One of the most enduring legacies of the Empire State (and perhaps also the Chrysler Building) is its Art Deco heritage. The Art Deco movement has its roots in the Modernist period of the early 20th century, and changed architectural styles in both public and private buildings away from the Beaux-Arts fashions of the late nineteenth century. Though Art Deco prevailed in many countries, it was in the United States that it leaped towards the sky in such an uncomprimising manner. It became an internationally renowned signature style of New York. After 1972, when the World Trade Center took over the Empire State Buildings mantle as the world’s tallest building, it fell into a state of disrepair and neglect. As money became fashion in the 1980s, the artistic and architectural standards slipped, with buildings appreciated for their height rather than their style and grace. But as Ada Louise Huxtable has pointed out, the refurbishment of the Empire State since 2007 ‘highlights the crucial difference between those who advocate for old buildings on the basis of art and history and those who deal in them as commercial commodities.’ Though the redevelopment has been driven by marketplace imperatives- to turn it into lucrative real estate- the businessmen in charge have also been sensitive enough to acknowledge the Empire State’s architectural heritage, restoring much of the lost Art Deco interior facades. In keeping with being one of the major New York attractions, the Empire State continues to draw thousands of visitors each month, and retains its paramount position as one of the greatest buildings in the world, and amongst the most ambitious architectural achievements in human history. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that were necessary to make it happen- any New York tourist can see a plaque with all the names of the construction workers that helped to make it into the global symbol it has become today.
Related Articles -
New York Attractions, Empire State Building,
| 
