121 East 22nd

Rem Koolhaas · Manhattan

121 East 22nd
Rising Star

A crystallographic Cubist volume that transitions from pre-war punched windows to a high-tech prismatic corner.

Building under development in Manhattan.

Featured in Rem Koolhaas's definitive monograph, S,M,L,XL.

Major PracticeRising Star
Architect
Rem Koolhaas
Coordinates
40.7394°, -73.9855°
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Visitor Guide

Visitor Tip

Walk the corner of Lexington and 23rd at night; the triangular windows fold in and out, reflecting the city lights in a rhythmic pattern.

Best Photo Spot

The sidewalk directly under the North Tower's corner. The inwards 'carve' at the street level provides a wide, sculptural foreground for the prismatic peak.

Access & Hours

Private residential complex. The lobby features a funnel-shaped design leading to an enclosed breezeway.

Insider Note

The design straddles a private park (Gramercy) and a public one (Madison). The interior courtyard facade uses light perforated aluminum to enhance daylight in the central 'valley'.

Time Needed

30 mins

Design & Structure

FoldingParametric SurfaceDouble-Curved
Computational Process

OMA worked around strict Gramercy zoning height laws by using the prismatic corner for identity. Interiors by INC feature stepped surfaces that echo the facade's geometry.

Materiality

Dark crystallization volume with Calacatta gold marble bathrooms. The facade transitions from historic neighbors' punched windows to contemporary floor-to-ceiling glass.

Structural Innovation

Includes a robotic parking system. The two towers are linked by an internal courtyard, requiring a balanced structural system for the L-shaped site.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed 121 East 22nd?+

121 East 22nd was designed by Rem Koolhaas. It is located in Manhattan, United States.

Where is 121 East 22nd located?+

121 East 22nd is located in Manhattan, United States. Its coordinates are 40.7394°, -73.9855°.

Can I visit 121 East 22nd?+

121 East 22nd is a real building in Manhattan that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.