When it comes to iconic New York City buildings, Four Times Square—also known as the Condé Nast Building—stands out as a striking example of architectural innovation and urban ambition. This 52-story skyscraper has been a defining feature of the Times Square skyline for over two decades. Located at 42nd Street and Broadway, it played a pivotal role in the revitalization of a neighborhood once known for its grit and urban challenges. But there’s much more to this building than meets the eye.
Curious to learn what makes Four Times Square so unique? This blog dives into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of one of NYC’s most notable high-rises.
What Is Four Times Square?
Four Times Square is a modern skyscraper located at 42nd Street and Broadway in Midtown Manhattan. Completed in 1999, it is one of the tallest buildings in the Times Square area, standing at 809 feet (247 meters). Designed by renowned architecture firm Fox & Fowle, the building is often celebrated as an emblem of sustainability and forward-thinking design in the late 20th century.
While best known as the former headquarters of Condé Nast, the global publishing giant behind magazines like Vogue and The New Yorker, the building is also home to a mix of office spaces, retail locations, and digital billboards that epitomize the energy of Times Square.
A Brief History of Four Times Square
Throughout much of the 20th century, Times Square was an area associated with bustling theaters, small businesses, and, unfortunately, a period of urban decline. By the 1980s, however, city leaders and developers began to focus on revitalizing the district. Four Times Square became a key project in this transformation.
When it was first announced in the early 1990s, the building represented a bold attempt to balance commercial success with environmental responsibility, a relatively novel idea at the time. Developed by the Durst Organization, the project incorporated eco-friendly features to appeal to forward-thinking tenants.
The building’s initial anchor tenant, Condé Nast, brought a significant cultural cachet to the project. The publisher’s 2000 move to Times Square helped shift perceptions of the neighborhood from seedy to sophisticated.
Architectural Features of Four Times Square
A Sustainable Design Vision
One of the most remarkable aspects of Four Times Square is its eco-conscious design. When it was completed, it was hailed as one of the most environmentally friendly skyscrapers in the world. For example:
- Energy Efficiency: The building uses high-performance glass to reduce heating and cooling demands and incorporates advanced HVAC systems.
- Recycling Programs: Specific areas were designed to encourage waste separation and recycling.
- Indoor Air Quality: Building materials were chosen to minimize off-gassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), promoting healthier working environments.
These sustainable elements helped pave the way for future green building projects in Manhattan.
Striking Façade & Cutting-Edge Billboard Displays
If you’ve seen an image of Times Square at night, chances are you’ve caught a glimpse of the vibrant LED billboards adorning Four Times Square. Its façade is partly dedicated to high-definition screens that light up the area with news updates, advertisements, and public service announcements. These displays are constantly evolving, keeping pace with advancements in digital advertising.
Sleek Yet Functional Aesthetic
Four Times Square stands out for its understated elegance. Its vertical lines and sleek glass-and-steel design provide a modern contrast to the neon chaos below. However, the building doesn’t sacrifice function for style. Built to accommodate a high density of office tenants, it boasts spacious interiors and advanced infrastructure to support large-scale business operations.
Companies and Cultural Impact
Past and Present Tenants
Four Times Square was famously home to Condé Nast from 2000 until 2014, when the company moved to One World Trade Center. During their time there, Condé Nast cemented the building as a cultural hotspot, hosting industry-defining events for fashion, media, and the arts.
Today, Four Times Square hosts a variety of tenants from finance, technology, and media industries, reflecting New York’s increasingly diverse business profile.
The Role of Four Times Square in NYC’s Revival
Four Times Square is more than an office building—it’s a symbol of Times Square’s resurgence. By attracting prestigious tenants like Condé Nast, it encouraged other high-profile companies to move into the area, sparking further investment and redevelopment.
The building’s LED displays and public art installations also add to the cultural energy of the district. For visitors and locals alike, Four Times Square exemplifies the dynamic spirit of Midtown Manhattan.
Fun Facts About Four Times Square
- Pioneering Green Design: Four Times Square set new standards for sustainability in commercial skyscrapers. It was one of the first buildings of its size to emphasize energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
- Film Appearances: The building has been featured in various movies and TV shows, serving as a backdrop for depictions of modern NYC life.
- Observation Perks: While not as well-known as other NYC landmarks like the Empire State Building, some tenants boast views that rival the city’s famed observatories.
Why Four Times Square Matters Today
Even as new skyscrapers rise in Midtown Manhattan, Four Times Square remains relevant. Its innovative design, prime location, and cultural influence have cemented it as an enduring part of New York City’s urban fabric.
Whether you’re a visitor snapping photos in Times Square or a local navigating Midtown during rush hour, it’s hard to ignore the impact this building has had. It serves as a reminder that thoughtful design can transform not just skylines, but entire neighborhoods.
FAQs
What is Four Times Square?
Four Times Square, also known as the Condé Nast Building, is a prominent skyscraper located in Midtown Manhattan. It is renowned for its architectural design and its influence on sustainability practices in urban construction.
When was it built?
The building was completed in 1999, marking a milestone in New York City’s architectural evolution during the late 20th century.
Why is Four Times Square significant?
It is significant for being one of the first environmentally sustainable skyscrapers in the United States, incorporating energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials.
Can the public visit Four Times Square?
While the building is primarily an office space, its ground-level retail spaces and central location in Times Square make it accessible to the public for certain activities. However, access to office areas is restricted.
Who were the architects behind the design?
The building was designed by Fox & Fowle Architects, who are celebrated for their expertise in urban and sustainable architecture.