PENN 1

PENN 1 has undergone a major transformation to redefine the future of work, public space, and connection to transportation within THE PENN DISTRICT. MdeAS served as the executive architect for the project with a focus on enhancing the 55-story tower’s facade, expanding the base of the building, and enhancing the surrounding public plazas. Combined with interior architecture by A+I and landscape architecture by MNLA, the result is a sleek, modern building that seamlessly blends state-of-the-art technology with luxurious amenities to create an unparalleled user experience.

Address 1 Pennsylvania Plaza (also 1 Penn Plaza)

City New York, NY

Year 2023

Size 2.68 million sq ft

Client Vornado Realty Trust

Design Partners A+I, MNLA

Façade Upgrades

PENN 1’s midcentury façade was originally characterized by silver vertical striping and an uninviting street-level storefront. MdeAS oversaw a full façade refurbishment and window replacement program to give the building a more unified appearance while upgrading to triple-glazed windows to improve energy performance and tenant comfort. At the crown, new color-changing lighting and signage designed by CBBLD and A+I give the building a more prominent graphic presence on the Manhattan skyline.

The base of the building received a complete rejuvenation, expanding up and out to reveal an extensive new amenity program that supports flexible work and lifestyle spaces. The new double-height storefronts were designed with Magny Le Louvre limestone and statuary bronze metalwork to reflect the refined detailing and warmth of the new interiors. The lobby was expanded north to create a monumental entry and engage with the street through a "front porch"-style connection. New jumbo glass storefronts were installed to maximize visibility at the ground level and promote fluidity from the street to the retail and amenities within.

Plaza Refresh

MNLA, MdeAS, and A+I partnered to design the surrounding plazas in coordination with the larger PENN DISTRICT master plan developed by Foster + Partners. Surrounded on all four sides by public plazas, PENN 1 is a unique condition in New York City. The plazas create a consistent plinth on which the building rests and provide a seamless connection between 34th and 33rd Streets. Sidewalks and public rights of way were redone in Belgian Petit Granit and Mesabi Black Granite to provide unity and a district identity.

Retailers on the West Plaza rejuvenated the central open-air cafe and additional kiosks with new food and beverage options. A custom light fixture organizes these spaces while visually connecting both sides of the plaza to the street. This reconfiguration creates distinct pockets for various programming elements while unifying the large public space.