Citigroup Center, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is a skyscraper in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. Designed by architect Hugh Stubbins and completed in 1977, it is the headquarters of Citigroup.
The building is 915 feet (279 meters) tall and has 59 stories. It is the eighth-tallest building in New York City and the 35th-tallest building in the United States. The building is clad in white granite and has a distinctive triangular shape. It is considered to be one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world.
The Citigroup Center is home to a variety of businesses, including financial services firms, law firms, and technology companies. It is also a popular tourist destination, and its observation deck offers panoramic views of the city.
1. Height
The Citigroup Center is the eighth-tallest building in New York City and the 35th-tallest building in the United States. Its height is a major contributing factor to its iconic status and its dominance of the Midtown Manhattan skyline.
- Structural Considerations: The building’s height required innovative engineering solutions to ensure its stability and resilience against high winds and seismic activity. Its triangular shape and sturdy steel frame contribute to its structural integrity.
- Architectural Impact: The building’s height and distinctive shape make it a focal point of the Midtown Manhattan skyline. Its presence has influenced the design of other skyscrapers in the area, contributing to the city’s overall architectural landscape.
- Panoramic Views: The building’s height offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Visitors can enjoy vistas stretching from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty.
- Symbolic Significance: The building’s height can be seen as a symbol of Citigroup’s financial power and global reach. It stands as a testament to the company’s success and its role in the world economy.
The Citigroup Center’s height is not merely a physical attribute but also a defining characteristic that shapes its architectural significance, impact on the cityscape, and symbolic meaning.
2. Stories
The Citigroup Center, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is a skyscraper in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. Completed in 1977, it is the eighth-tallest building in New York City and the 35th-tallest building in the United States. The building is 915 feet (279 meters) tall and has 59 stories.
The number of stories in a building is an important factor in determining its height, function, and overall design. In the case of the Citigroup Center, its 59 stories contribute to its status as a prominent landmark in the Midtown Manhattan skyline.
The building’s height allows for a variety of uses, including office space, retail space, and observation decks. The Citigroup Center is home to a variety of businesses, including financial services firms, law firms, and technology companies. The building’s observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, making it a popular tourist destination.
The Citigroup Center is a well-known example of a skyscraper with a large number of stories. The building’s height and distinctive triangular shape make it a recognizable landmark in the New York City skyline.
3. Architect
Hugh Stubbins, an American architect known for his innovative designs and modernist style, played a pivotal role in the creation of the Citigroup Center, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, in New York City.
Stubbins’s design for the Citigroup Center was a groundbreaking achievement in skyscraper architecture. Completed in 1977, it was one of the first buildings to incorporate a triangular floor plan, a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other skyscrapers in the city. The triangular shape not only gives the building a unique aesthetic but also contributes to its structural stability and efficiency.
Stubbins’s vision for the Citigroup Center extended beyond its striking exterior. He also designed the building’s interiors, creating open and flexible office spaces that maximized natural light and provided stunning views of the city. His attention to detail and commitment to functionality is evident throughout the building, from its elegant lobby to its state-of-the-art mechanical systems.
The Citigroup Center has become an iconic landmark in New York City and a testament to Hugh Stubbins’s architectural legacy. Its innovative design has influenced the construction of skyscrapers around the world, and it continues to be admired for its beauty, functionality, and timeless appeal.
4. Completed
The completion of the Citigroup skyscraper in 1977 marked a significant milestone in the history of architecture and engineering. This iconic building, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, stands as a testament to the innovative spirit and technological advancements of its time.
- Architectural Innovation:
The Citigroup skyscraper’s distinctive triangular shape and use of lightweight materials were groundbreaking at the time of its construction. Its unique design allowed for maximum natural light and efficient use of space, setting a new standard for skyscraper design. - Engineering Feat:
The building’s structural system, with its innovative use of steel and concrete, enabled it to withstand high winds and seismic activity. The engineering marvel of the Citigroup skyscraper pushed the boundaries of what was possible in high-rise construction. - Sustainability Pioneer:
Despite being completed in 1977, the Citigroup skyscraper incorporated sustainable design elements that were ahead of its time. Its energy-efficient systems and use of natural light reduced its environmental impact. - Urban Icon:
Since its completion, the Citigroup skyscraper has become an integral part of the New York City skyline and a symbol of the city’s financial and architectural prowess. Its striking presence and enduring legacy have made it a beloved landmark.
The Citigroup skyscraper’s completion in 1977 not only marked the birth of an architectural icon but also showcased the ingenuity and vision that shaped the skyscraper landscape in the years that followed. Its enduring presence serves as a reminder of the transformative power of innovation and the pursuit of architectural excellence.
5. Styl
e
The Citigroup Center, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is a skyscraper in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. Designed by architect Hugh Stubbins and completed in 1977, it is the eighth-tallest building in New York City and the 35th-tallest building in the United States. The building is clad in white granite and has a distinctive triangular shape. It is considered to be one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world.
The Citigroup Center is an example of the International Style of architecture. The International Style is a style of architecture that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s. It is characterized by its simplicity, functionality, and lack of ornamentation. International Style buildings are typically made of glass, steel, and concrete, and they often have a rectilinear shape.
- Simplicity: The Citigroup Center is a simple building with a clean, uncluttered design. The building’s exterior is clad in white granite, and it has a triangular shape. The building’s interior is also simple, with a focus on functionality and efficiency.
- Functionality: The Citigroup Center is a functional building that is designed to meet the needs of its occupants. The building’s floor plan is efficient, and the building’s systems are designed to be efficient and reliable.
- Lack of Ornamentation: The Citigroup Center is a building that is devoid of ornamentation. The building’s exterior is clean and simple, and the building’s interior is also simple and uncluttered.
- Use of Glass, Steel, and Concrete: The Citigroup Center is a building that is made of glass, steel, and concrete. The building’s exterior is clad in white granite, and the building’s interior is made of steel and concrete. The use of these materials gives the building a strong and durable structure.
The Citigroup Center is a significant example of the International Style of architecture. The building’s simple, functional, and unornamented design is characteristic of the International Style, and the building’s use of glass, steel, and concrete is also typical of the style. The Citigroup Center is a well-preserved example of the International Style, and it is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world.
6. Shape
The Citigroup skyscraper, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is a 915-foot (279-meter) tall skyscraper in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. Completed in 1977, it is the eighth-tallest building in New York City and the 35th-tallest building in the United States. The building is clad in white granite and has a distinctive triangular shape. It is considered to be one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world.
- Structural Stability:
The triangular shape of the Citigroup skyscraper provides it with greater structural stability compared to buildings with rectangular or square shapes. The triangular shape helps to distribute the weight of the building more evenly, reducing the risk of collapse in high winds or earthquakes.
- Wind Resistance:
The triangular shape of the Citigroup skyscraper also makes it more resistant to wind. The angled sides of the building help to deflect wind, reducing the amount of force that is exerted on the building. This makes the building less likely to sway or topple in strong winds.
- Architectural Impact:
The triangular shape of the Citigroup skyscraper is a major contributing factor to its iconic status. The unique shape makes the building stand out from other skyscrapers in the city and gives it a recognizable silhouette. The Citigroup skyscraper is often used in films and television shows as a symbol of New York City.
- Efficient Use of Space:
The triangular shape of the Citigroup skyscraper allows for a more efficient use of space than buildings with rectangular or square shapes. The angled sides of the building create more usable floor space, which can be used for offices, retail space, or other purposes.
The triangular shape of the Citigroup skyscraper is not only a striking architectural feature but also a functional design that provides the building with greater structural stability, wind resistance, and efficient use of space. The unique shape has made the Citigroup skyscraper one of the most recognizable buildings in the world.
7. Cladding
The Citigroup Center, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is a skyscraper in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. Completed in 1977, it is the eighth-tallest building in New York City and the 35th-tallest building in the United States. The building is clad in white granite and has a distinctive triangular shape. It is considered to be one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world.
The white granite cladding is a key component of the Citigroup Center’s design. The granite is quarried from Vermont and is known for its durability and beauty. The cladding helps to protect the building from the elements and gives it a distinctive appearance.
The white granite cladding also plays a role in the building’s energy efficiency. The granite’s thermal mass helps to regulate the building’s temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling.
The Citigroup Center is a prime example of how white granite cladding can be used to create a beautiful and sustainable building. The granite’s durability, beauty, and energy efficiency make it an ideal choice for cladding skyscrapers and other large buildings.
8. Headquarters
The Citigroup Center, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is the headquarters of Citigroup, a leading global financial services company. The building is located in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City and is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world.
Citigroup’s decision to make the Citigroup Center its headquarters was a strategic one. The building’s location in the heart of New York City’s financial district provides Citigroup with easy access to its clients and partners. The building’s size and amenities also allow Citigroup to accommodate its large workforce and provide them with a comfortable and productive work environment.
The Citigroup Center is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Citigroup’s global reach and financial. The building’s iconic triangular shape and white granite facade are instantly recognizable, and it is one of the most photographed buildings in the world.
The Citigroup Center is a key component of Citigroup’s business operations and is essential to the company’s success. The building provides Citigroup with a world-class headquarters that meets the needs of its employees, clients, and partners.
9. Observation deck
The Citigr
oup Center, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is a skyscraper in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. Completed in 1977, it is the eighth-tallest building in New York City and the 35th-tallest building in the United States. The building is clad in white granite and has a distinctive triangular shape. It is considered to be one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world.
One of the most notable features of the Citigroup Center is its observation deck, which offers panoramic views of the city. The observation deck is located on the 59th floor of the building and is open to the public. Visitors can enjoy views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and other landmarks.
- Tourist attraction: The observation deck is a popular tourist attraction, and it is estimated that over 1 million people visit the deck each year. The deck offers a unique opportunity to see New York City from a different perspective.
- Revenue source: The observation deck is also a source of revenue for the Citigroup Center. The deck is operated by a private company, and the proceeds from ticket sales are used to help maintain the building.
- Educational resource: The observation deck can also be used as an educational resource. The deck offers a variety of educational programs for students and adults. These programs teach about the history of New York City, the architecture of the Citigroup Center, and the importance of sustainability.
- Community space: The observation deck can also be used as a community space. The deck is often used for private events, such as weddings and corporate functions. The deck can also be rented for educational programs and other events.
The observation deck is an important part of the Citigroup Center. It is a popular tourist attraction, a source of revenue, an educational resource, and a community space. The deck offers a unique opportunity to see New York City from a different perspective and learn about the history and architecture of the city.
FAQs about the Citigroup skyscraper
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Citigroup skyscraper, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, in New York City:
Question 1: How tall is the Citigroup skyscraper?
Answer: The Citigroup skyscraper is 915 feet (279 meters) tall.
Question 2: How many stories does the Citigroup skyscraper have?
Answer: The Citigroup skyscraper has 59 stories.
Question 3: When was the Citigroup skyscraper completed?
Answer: The Citigroup skyscraper was completed in 1977.
Question 4: Who designed the Citigroup skyscraper?
Answer: The Citigroup skyscraper was designed by architect Hugh Stubbins.
Question 5: What is the Citigroup skyscraper’s address?
Answer: The Citigroup skyscraper is located at 601 Lexington Avenue in New York City.
Question 6: What is the Citigroup skyscraper’s nickname?
Answer: The Citigroup skyscraper is nicknamed “the Big Birdcage” because of its distinctive triangular shape.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the Citigroup skyscraper. For more information, please visit the building’s official website.
Key takeaways:
- The Citigroup skyscraper is one of the most iconic buildings in New York City.
- The building is 915 feet (279 meters) tall and has 59 stories.
- The Citigroup skyscraper was designed by architect Hugh Stubbins and was completed in 1977.
- The building is located at 601 Lexington Avenue in New York City.
- The Citigroup skyscraper is nicknamed “the Big Birdcage” because of its distinctive triangular shape.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the Citigroup skyscraper, let’s take a closer look at the building’s history, architecture, and significance.
Tips for visiting the Citigroup skyscraper
The Citigroup skyscraper, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is a popular tourist destination in New York City. Here are some tips for visiting the skyscraper:
Tip 1: Purchase tickets in advance.
Tickets for the observation deck can be purchased online or at the box office. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.
Tip 2: Arrive early.
The observation deck opens at 8am, and it is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds. This will give you plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos.
Tip 3: Bring your camera.
The observation deck offers panoramic views of New York City, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
Tip 4: Wear comfortable shoes.
You will need to walk up a few flights of stairs to reach the observation deck, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Tip 5: Be prepared for security.
You will need to go through a security screening before entering the observation deck. Be sure to remove all metal objects from your pockets and bags.
Tip 6: Allow plenty of time.
It takes about an hour to visit the observation deck. Be sure to allow plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos.
Tip 7: Visit on a clear day.
The views from the observation deck are best on a clear day. If possible, try to visit the observation deck on a day with good weather.
Tip 8: Take advantage of the educational resources.
The observation deck offers a variety of educational resources, including interactive exhibits and guided tours. Be sure to take advantage of these resources to learn more about the Citigroup skyscraper and New York City.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to the Citigroup skyscraper. The observation deck offers stunning views of New York City, and it is a great place to learn about the city’s history and architecture.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
The Citigroup skyscraper is a must-see for any visitor to New York City. By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit and enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck.
Conclusion
The Citigroup skyscraper, also known as 601 Lexington Avenue, is a landmark building in New York City. Designed by architect Hugh Stubbins and completed in 1977, it is the eighth-tallest building in New York City and the 35th-tallest building in the United States. The building is clad in white granite and has a distinctive triangular shape, which gives it the nickname “the Big Birdcage.”
The Citigroup skyscraper is home to the headquarters of Citigroup, a leading global financial services company. The building also has a popular observation deck, which offers panoramic views of New York City. The observation deck is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination.






