Architects: Cesar Pelli & Associates Architects, Adamson Associates Architects
Role: Full structural engineering services
Located in lower Manhattan, the World Financial Center was, at the time of construction, the largest commercial development undertaken in New York City since the Rockefeller Center was constructed in the 1930’s.
The complex consists of four high-rise towers ranging from 33- to 52-storeys in height. Halcrow Yolles provided the overall concept for the project, as well as the detailed design for both the 52-storey Tower Three (204,000m²) and the 44-storey Tower One (149,000m²).
The overall design of the complex creates dramatic public spaces and access to the waterfront which promotes spectacular views of the Hudson River and the harbour. Two identical towers form a gateway between the street and the waterfront via an enclosed glass vault known as the Winter Garden. The Winter Garden is part of a thriving street-level base that also contains the Liberty Street portal, retail arcades, restaurants, and a courtyard.