New York City, renowned for its iconic skyline, is home to over 7,000 completed high-rise buildings towering at least 115 feet. Over the past decade, however, a new architectural trend has emerged in the city—super-skinny skyscrapers, also known as “pencil towers.” Among these, SHoP Architects’ 111 West 57th Street, commonly known as the Steinway Tower, stands out as a marvel of engineering and design.
Completed in 2021, the Steinway Tower is the skinniest skyscraper in the world, boasting a height-to-width ratio of 24:1. The building measures just 28.5 meters (93.5 feet) in width but soars to an impressive height of 1,428 feet, making it one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere. Located on Billionaires’ Row along the north side of 57th Street near Sixth Avenue, the tower is flanked by other luxury landmarks like the Central Park Tower and the World Trade Center.
Architectural and Design Highlights
The Steinway Tower is the brainchild of SHoP Architects, a New York-based firm led by director Greg Pasquarelli. Pasquarelli has described the project as “a work of extraordinary size and epic grandeur.” Construction began in 2013 and faced numerous challenges and controversies before its completion eight years later. Despite these hurdles, the result is a building that redefines the limits of urban architecture.
The tower’s facade is a testament to innovative design. Created in collaboration with BuroHappold, it features a striking combination of glass and terracotta. The terracotta elements are particularly unique, appearing to change color and texture when viewed from different angles and under varying light conditions. This dynamic aesthetic makes the building an ever-changing visual spectacle amid the Manhattan skyline.
Luxury Living in the Skies
The Steinway Tower comprises 84 floors, housing 60 luxurious apartments that epitomize high-end living. Each residence offers panoramic, all-around views of New York City, with many overlooking the lush expanse of Central Park. The prices for these opulent homes reflect their exclusivity: studio apartments start at $7.75 million, while the penthouse, perched atop the tower, commands a staggering $66 million.
These residences are more than just homes; they are symbols of wealth and status, designed for the ultra-elite. The interior spaces feature the finest materials and finishes, catering to the most discerning tastes. With its prime location on Billionaires’ Row and unparalleled views, the Steinway Tower has quickly become one of the most sought-after addresses in the world.
A New Icon
As the skinniest skyscraper globally, the Steinway Tower is a true engineering feat. It blends cutting-edge technology with artistic flair, setting a new benchmark for modern skyscraper design. Situated amidst a cluster of billion-dollar towers, it adds a new dimension to Manhattan’s skyline while reflecting the city’s spirit of ambition and innovation.
Whether admired for its architectural ingenuity or as a symbol of luxury living, the Steinway Tower has firmly established itself as a new landmark in New York City—a testament to the boundless creativity and audacity of modern urban design.
