Walking Tour: The Architecture of Bryant Park

Before Bryant Park became New York’s “Living Room” and home to the New York Public Library, this open space served as a potter’s field, a reservoir for the Croton Water System, and the site of the Crystal Palace Exhibition. During the Great Depression, Robert Moses implemented a sweeping new landscape plan.   Following a decline in the social and physical conditions in the 1970’s the park underwent a major transformation completed in 1990 designed by Hanna/Olin. Today, Bryant Park, one of the premier outdoor spaces of Manhattan, serves as a model for public and private revitalization. This walking tour will explore the architecture lining the perimeter of the park which offers a timeline of the development of Midtown. Key projects include the New York Public Library by Carrère and Hastings, the Radiator Building by Howells and Hood, One Bryant Park by Cook + Fox, the Grace Building by SOM, and Bryant Condominiums and Hotel by David Chipperfield. Urban and architectural issues will be discussed, including NYC zoning law, business improvements districts, and the evolution of skyscraper design.
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AIANY Guide: Joseph Lengeling, AIA

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Health and Safety Guidelines:

The safety and comfort of our guides and guests is our number one priority. By registering for this tour, you acknowledge and agree to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Proof of complete COVID-19 vaccination (for attendees 6 months and up) with photo ID for adults is required to attend.
• Face masks are encouraged for all visitors.
  

Failure to follow these guidelines may result in your guide requesting that you kindly leave the tour group. Refunds will not be provided for tours canceled due to a failure to comply with safety guidelines. 

AIANY cannot be held liable and assumes no responsibility for any injury or loss incurred by participants in these programs.  Tour is limited to 15 attendees. Walkups cannot be guaranteed a spot on the tour. ‍

Cancellation Policy: 
AIANY Walking tours take place rain or shine, please dress for the weather. There are no refunds, cancellations, or exchanges, unless we cancel a tour.