
A shimmering ripple in the sky that transforms stainless steel into the fluidity of silk.
Skyscraper in New York City.
Visitor Guide
Walk around to the south facade to see the flat face, which Gehry designed to provide a geometric contrast to the undulating ripples.
Nassau Street, looking northeast during the morning to see the sun reflecting off the 'angel hair' finish of the steel.
Residential floors are private; the ground-level public plazas and the facade are viewable to the public.
The top three floors are not residential; they are 'facade only' to hide the building's massive mechanical systems.
1 hour
Design & Structure
Gehry Technologies' Digital Project software was used to create nearly 90 design options and rationalize the steel skin into ruled surfaces.
Stainless steel panels with a 'honeycomb' internal support and an 'angel hair' finish that prevents harsh solar glare.
The facade functions as a complex rain screen; all 2,400 glazed panels are normal to the ground plane to simplify installation.
See Together
Buildings that pair well with 731 Lexington Avenue — they're nearby or share a compelling architectural conversation.
More by César Pelli
View all →
Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center
Minneapolis Central Library

Overture Center for the Arts
Pacific Design Center
Clorox Building
National Museum of Art, Osaka
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed 731 Lexington Avenue?+
731 Lexington Avenue was designed by César Pelli and completed in 2005. It is located in Midtown Manhattan, United States.
Where is 731 Lexington Avenue located?+
731 Lexington Avenue is located in Midtown Manhattan, United States. Its coordinates are 40.7618°, -73.9680°.
When was 731 Lexington Avenue built?+
731 Lexington Avenue was completed in 2005. It was designed by César Pelli.
Can I visit 731 Lexington Avenue?+
731 Lexington Avenue is a real building in Midtown 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.