To reflect the historic building’s stature and evolving tenant mix, the owners of 100-104 Fifth Avenue partnered with Spectorgroup to restore the primary lobby’s original grandeur while layering in soft, contemporary detailing. The result is a timeless entry experience that honors the building’s heritage with a modern touch.
Closely studying the existing space, the design team unearthed a variety of classically-crafted elements previously covered with layers of 1990’s-era renovations. Drawing inspiration from New York’s historic buildings and guided by the Beaux-Arts stylings of the nearby Stuyvesant Building, the team embraced a palette of traditional materials reimagined for today. Limestone-clad walls provide a creamy, honed finish that compliments the classic Botticino Classico marble floors to create a subtle interplay of polished and matte surfaces to add depth to the space.
A discovery preserved.
The standout design element of the lobby emerged when ceiling repairs revealed original gilded detailing around the coffers. The team carefully preserved this unexpected discovery as a nod to the building’s history. The reception desk acts as another focal point of the space, conceived as a sculptural object “floating” within the lobby itself. It features a wrapped metal shroud over a carved wood block, hovering lightly against the limestone backdrop.
To address the lobby’s constrained footprint, the team focused on maximizing ceiling heights, materiality, and refined proportions to create an entryway that feels grand, but also intimate. The updates extend through to the elevator cabs, echoing the palette and updated identity of the rest of the space.
A sophisticated arrival point.
By blending classic forms with contemporary design detailing, Spectorgroup transformed the 100-104 Fifth Avenue entry experience into a sophisticated arrival point on one of the city’s most iconic streets
