The dynamic crown lighting incorporates a subtle, layered approach to emphasize the sculptural, overlapping forms of the tower top and the finer detail and texture of the spandrel panels and structural components. These volumes are punctuated with a vibrant spire comprised of linear grazers and direct view narrow beam strip lights. A pedestrian level, the lower podium gestures to the neighboring, historic Grand Central Station with a subtle wash of light on the overlapping warm, terracotta ceiling soffits above. The uplighting of the terracotta soffits blurs the line between exterior and interior while elegantly gesturing to the neighborhood.

The three crown volumes glow internally with RGBW LED flood lights mounted at each level to wash the 8” wide mullions and structural components. Texture is created with high-powered, narrow beam flood lights mounted at roof setbacks to highlight the exterior façade mullions of the uppermost “snorkel” volume. A continuous parapet- mounted strip light outlines the top of each crown volume to emphasize their sloping, non-directional forms. The four-sided pyramidal white metal spire is grazed with light to showcase the subtle diagonal structure punctuated by direct view, narrow beam strip lights at each tier. A 4' long array of direct view strip lights rings the top of the spire to form a beacon of light visible from all directions in and around the city.

The Crown’s program capabilities range from a dynamic “flame” of light for Yom Kippur to a bright, animated “fireworks” display for July 4th. Each one-foot segment of fixture can be controlled independently. The static scenes include a subtle gradient of intensity so as not to impede on the sweeping views from the observation deck and to allow for a subtle transition to the occupiable tower floors below.

Full Project Stats