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Rainbow Room
New York, New York, USA | 2015
Architects: Gabellini Sheppard
Associate Architect: Montroy Andersen DeMarco
Client: Tishman Speyer Properties
Contractor: Turner Construction
Tishman Speyer Properties commissioned the architects to open a new chapter for the Rainbow Room and the 65th floor, blending contemporary needs while celebrating the past era of the iconic space.
The vision was to rejuvenate the once preeminent event space into a convertible venue suitable for hosting high caliber banquet and restaurant functions. The previously closed western Pavilion and terrace will become SixtyFive, a member’s club for breakfast and lunch and will evolve into a bar and lounge serving cocktails and light fare during evening hours. Connecting the two rooms, the Gallery will provide a seamless transition from room to room and allow for sequencing events.
By incorporating these aspirational needs, the architects developed the floor plan to rekindle the spirit and glamour of the original Art Deco inspired room. A refined material palette incorporating modern technology with bespoke custom furnishings will enable this state-of-the art facility to graciously host premier events well into the future.
The architects incorporated several custom designed elements that carry forward the memory of the celebrated space while satisfying the present programmatic needs. In the Rainbow Room, a revitalization of the rotating dance floor, mesmerizing crystal window veils lining the 15-foot windows and restoration of the historic chandelier and central dome reinforce the intention of creating modern day grandeur. Custom designed carpet and furniture is featured throughout the 65th floor. In SixtyFive, afaceted ceiling made of glass reinforced gypsum panels anchors the center of the space, reinterpreting the feeling of open-air height the room once had when it was an open air sun parlor in 1934. Structurally, the window apertures in the Pavilion were modified to recreate the experience of this expansive viewing portal.
