The Lipstick Building: An Iconic Manhattan Landmark with a Colorful Legacy

Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Lipstick Building stands as an iconic symbol of the city's vibrant culture and architectural ingenuity. Its distinctive shape, resembling a giant red lipstick, has captured the imagination of countless New Yorkers and visitors alike. This feminine masterpiece has a rich history, dating back to the post-World War II era, and has witnessed some of the most significant events in the city's development.

A Glimpse into the Building's Intriguing History

The Lipstick Building, officially known as 99 Park Avenue, traces its roots to the 1950s, a time of economic growth and urban renewal in New York City. In 1953, real estate developer William Zeckendorf acquired the site for a modest $1.2 million and envisioned a towering skyscraper that would epitomize the city's postwar resurgence.

The building's design was entrusted to the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), which was known for its innovative and functional structures. The firm's lead architects, Gordon Bunshaft and Natalie De Blois, crafted a design that was both striking and practical.

Lipstick or Rocket? The Story Behind the Building's Iconic Shape

The Lipstick Building's most distinctive feature is, without a doubt, its shape. The streamlined, tapered silhouette has earned it the affectionate nickname "The Lipstick." However, the building's form was not the result of a whimsical desire but rather a deliberate response to zoning regulations.

In the 1950s, zoning laws in New York City restricted the height and bulk of buildings in the area. To maximize the amount of usable space within these constraints, SOM designed a diamond-shaped tower that rose to 33 stories and tapered toward the top. The resulting form resembled a lipstick, which eventually became the building's defining characteristic.

Beyond the Lipstick: The Building's Other Notable Architectural Features

While the Lipstick Building's shape steals the spotlight, it also boasts several other noteworthy architectural features:

• Glass Facade: The exterior is clad in a curtain wall of glass, which allows for an abundance of natural light and provides panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape.

  

• Aluminum Spandrels: The glass is interspersed with anodized aluminum spandrels, which add a touch of visual interest and help to regulate solar gain.

• Rooftop Observatory: The top of the building features a private observatory, offering exclusive 360-degree views of the city. This was the spot from which the iconic photograph of the building's silhouette against the Manhattan skyline was taken.

Occupants of the Lipstick Building: A Diverse Tenant Roster

Over the years, the Lipstick Building has played host to a diverse range of tenants, reflecting the city's changing industries and business landscape:

• The 1950s and 1960s: The building was primarily occupied by advertising firms and media companies, such as Young & Rubicam and Foote, Cone & Belding.

• The 1970s and 1980s: The fashion industry took its turn as the building's main tenant, attracting companies like Calvin Klein, Estée Lauder, and Ralph Lauren.

• The 1990s and Beyond: The building has remained a popular destination for creative and tech-oriented businesses, with occupants such as Google, Spotify, and Snap.

The Lipstick Building's Impact on New York City

The Lipstick Building has played a significant role in the shaping of New York City's skyline and urban identity:

• Architectural Legacy: The building's innovative design has set a precedent for other skyscrapers both in New York and around the world. Its tapered form and use of glass and aluminum have become standard features of modern architecture.

• Tourism Draw: The Lipstick Building has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors eager to admire its unique shape and experience its panoramic views. The building's appearance in countless films and television shows has further cemented its iconic status.

• Cultural Significance: The building has served as a backdrop for important cultural events, such as the annual NYC Pride Parade and the MTV Video Music Awards. It has also been featured in the works of famous artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

Fun Facts about the Lipstick Building

• The True Cost of the Lipstick: The building's original construction cost was approximately $12 million, which is equivalent to $132 million in today's currency.

• A Swinging Sixties Landmark: In 1967, the building was the site of a daring protest by feminist artist Judy Chicago, who hung 100 life-size brassieres from its facade.

• The Pen That Designed the Lipstick: Ironically, the building was designed using a Parker 51 fountain pen, rather than lipstick.

Stories from the Lipstick Building: A Window into Its History

Story 1: The Lipstick Lady

Legend has it that the building's distinctive shape inspired a local woman to create a new lipstick color. The lipstick, named "99 Park Avenue", became a best-seller and is still available today.

Story 2: The Accidental Paint Job

During the 1980s, a construction crew accidentally painted one side of the building bright pink, mistaking it for another building that was scheduled for a makeover. The mistake was quickly corrected, but it provided a colorful chapter in the building's history.

Story 3: The Fashionable Facade

In 2019, the Lipstick Building's facade was transformed into a giant fashion billboard for the Met Gala. The building was covered in a stunning display of fabrics and designs, showcasing the creativity of the fashion world.

Effective Strategies for Maintaining the Lipstick Building's Legacy

Preserving the Lipstick Building's iconic status and architectural integrity is a priority for the city of New York:

• Landmark Designation: The building was designated as a New York City Landmark in 1989, ensuring its protection from demolition or alteration.

• Regular Maintenance: The building undergoes regular cleaning and maintenance to keep its facade and interior in pristine condition.

• Respectful Renovations: Any renovations or upgrades to the building are carefully considered to maintain its historical character and architectural significance.

Why the Lipstick Building Matters

The Lipstick Building is not just another skyscraper in the New York City skyline; it is a symbol of the city's creativity, innovation, and cultural diversity:

• Architectural Significance: The building's unique shape and design have made it an architectural icon, inspiring countless other structures and becoming a symbol of the city's postwar resurgence.

• Cultural Impact: The Lipstick Building has become intertwined with the city's cultural fabric, serving as a backdrop for events, appearing in popular culture, and inspiring artistic creations.

• Economic Engine: The building houses a diverse range of businesses and generates millions of dollars in tax revenue for the city.

How the Lipstick Building Benefits the City of New York

The Lipstick Building contributes to the city in various ways, both tangible and intangible:

• Job Creation: The building provides jobs for hundreds of workers, including property managers, security personnel, and tenants.

• Tax Revenue: The building's high value and income generate significant property and sales taxes for the city.

• Tourism Dollars: The Lipstick Building's iconic status attracts tourists, who spend money on local businesses such as restaurants, shops, and hotels.

FAQs about the Lipstick Building

1. Why is the Lipstick Building called the Lipstick Building?

The building's shape resembles a giant red lipstick, hence the affectionate nickname.

2. How tall is the Lipstick Building?

The Lipstick Building rises to 33 stories and stands at a height of 504 feet.

3. Who designed the Lipstick Building?

The Lipstick Building was designed by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).

4. When was the Lipstick Building built?

Construction of the Lipstick Building was completed in 1957.

5. What is the address of the Lipstick Building?

The Lipstick Building is located at 99 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016.

6. Is the Lipstick Building open to the public?

The Lipstick Building is primarily occupied by office tenants and is not open to the general public. However, the building's lobby and the rooftop observatory are occasionally open for special events and tours.

Tables

Table 1: Key Facts about the Lipstick Building

Table 2: Notable Tenants of the Lipstick Building