599 Lexington Ave NY NY: A Midtown Manhattan Icon

Welcome to Midtown Manhattan, a bustling hub of commerce, culture, and iconic architecture. Among the forest of skyscrapers stands a particularly noteworthy structure: 599 Lexington Ave NY NY. This building is more than just an address; it’s a piece of the New York City skyline, a center for business, and a landmark with a unique story. Whether you’re a tourist planning a visit, a professional looking for office space, or simply a fan of modern architecture, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this impressive tower. We’ll explore its history, design, tenants, and the vibrant neighborhood it calls home.

Key Takeaways

• Architectural Significance: 599 Lexington Avenue is a postmodern skyscraper designed by the renowned architect Edward Larrabee Barnes, known for its distinctive green glass and geometric crown.
• Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Midtown East, the building offers unparalleled access to transportation, dining, and major corporate headquarters.
• Class A Office Space: It is a premier destination for businesses, offering modern amenities, flexible floor plans, and stunning city views.
• Neighborhood Hub: The area surrounding 599 Lexington Ave NY NY is rich with cultural landmarks, luxury shopping, and some of New York’s most famous attractions.

The Story Behind 599 Lexington Ave NY NY

Every great building in New York City has a story, and 599 Lexington Ave NY NY is no exception. Completed in 1986, the tower was developed by Boston Properties, a major real estate investment trust. Its construction marked a significant addition to the Midtown East landscape during a period of architectural evolution. The project was helmed by the distinguished architect Edward Larrabee Barnes, who was known for his thoughtful and geometrically precise designs. His vision was to create a skyscraper that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing, one that would complement its surroundings while making a statement of its own.

The development was not just about adding another office building to the skyline. It was about creating a modern corporate hub that could meet the demands of the world’s leading firms. The design incorporated innovative features for its time, including efficient floor plates and advanced building systems. Its immediate success solidified its status as a top-tier commercial address, attracting a roster of prestigious tenants from the moment it opened its doors. The building stands on a site with its own history, part of a neighborhood that has transformed over decades from residential to one of the world’s most powerful business districts.

Architectural Vision: The Design of Edward Larrabee Barnes

The architectural brilliance of 599 Lexington Ave NY NY lies in its postmodern design, a style that broke away from the rigid forms of modernism. Architect Edward Larrabee Barnes imbued the structure with a unique identity. The building rises 653 feet (199 meters) and comprises 50 stories, making it a prominent feature on the skyline. Its most recognizable feature is its deep green glass curtain wall, which gives the tower a sleek and sophisticated appearance. This color choice was intentional, helping it stand out among the more common blue and silver glass buildings of the era.

The top of the tower is particularly distinctive. It features an angled, geometric crown that is illuminated at night, creating a beacon in the Midtown sky. This crown isn’t just decorative; it elegantly hides the building’s mechanical equipment. The base of the building is equally well-conceived, featuring a polished granite facade and a spacious public plaza. This design element helps integrate the massive structure into the pedestrian experience at street level. Barnes’s work on 599 Lexington Ave NY NY is a testament to his ability to blend artistic form with commercial function, creating a building that is both a beautiful object and a highly practical workspace.

Locating 599 Lexington Ave NY NY: The Heart of Midtown East

The phrase “location, location, location” could have been coined for 599 Lexington Ave NY NY. Nestled in the core of Midtown East, one of Manhattan’s most prestigious commercial districts, the building’s address is synonymous with convenience and prestige. It is situated at the corner of Lexington Avenue and 53rd Street, placing it directly in the center of corporate power and influence. This area is home to the headquarters of numerous Fortune 500 companies, major financial institutions, and leading law firms, making it a dynamic environment for any business.

The strategic location offers unmatched connectivity. The building is directly connected to the Lexington Avenue/51st–53rd Street subway station, providing immediate access to the 4, 6, <6>, E, and M trains. This transportation hub makes commuting simple for employees coming from all corners of the city and its suburbs. Furthermore, Grand Central Terminal is just a short walk away, offering Metro-North Railroad services to upstate New York and Connecticut. For professionals who travel frequently, the proximity to major transit arteries is a significant advantage, saving time and simplifying daily logistics.

Navigating the Neighborhood

The neighborhood surrounding 599 Lexington Ave NY NY is a vibrant tapestry of commerce, culture, and cuisine. Within a few blocks, you can find world-class dining, luxury retail, and famous landmarks.

• Dining: The area boasts a wide range of culinary options, from quick lunch spots to Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or an upscale client dinner, the choices are endless.
• Shopping: Fifth Avenue, with its legendary department stores and designer boutiques, is just a stone’s throw away. This makes it easy to indulge in some retail therapy after work.
• Culture: Landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) are within walking distance, offering enriching cultural experiences.

This blend of business and leisure makes the area around 599 Lexington Ave NY NY not just a place to work, but a place to experience the best of what New York City has to offer.

A Premier Business Address: Office Space and Tenants

As a designated Class A office building, 599 Lexington Ave NY NY offers some of the most sought-after commercial real estate in Manhattan. The tower contains approximately 1 million square feet of office space, designed to cater to high-end corporate tenants. The floors are largely column-free, allowing for flexible and efficient office layouts that can be customized to a company’s specific needs. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide abundant natural light and offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including sights like the Chrysler Building and Central Park.

The building is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and infrastructure. This includes modern HVAC systems, high-speed elevators, and robust security protocols to ensure a safe and comfortable working environment. The management, Boston Properties, is known for its commitment to tenant satisfaction and property maintenance, ensuring that the building remains in pristine condition. These features combine to create a workspace that not only impresses clients but also helps attract and retain top talent. For businesses seeking a prestigious address with modern functionality, 599 Lexington Ave NY NY is an unparalleled choice.

Who Works at 599 Lexington Ave NY NY?

Over the years, 599 Lexington Ave NY NY has been home to a distinguished roster of tenants, primarily from the legal, financial, and consulting sectors. The building’s prestige and location make it particularly attractive to law firms. In fact, it has housed some of the world’s most prominent legal practices, who occupy large blocks of space across multiple floors. Financial services firms, including private equity groups and investment banks, are also common tenants, drawn by the proximity to Wall Street and other financial hubs.

The presence of these high-caliber tenants creates a powerful ecosystem within the building itself. It fosters a professional environment and offers networking opportunities. While the specific list of tenants changes over time due to lease agreements, the building consistently attracts industry leaders. This makes 599 Lexington Ave NY NY more than just an office tower; it’s a vertical community of influential professionals shaping global business and law.

Notable Tenant Profile

Amenities and Building Features

The appeal of 599 Lexington Ave NY NY extends beyond its office floors. The building is designed to provide a comprehensive and convenient experience for its tenants and visitors. At the street level, the tower features a selection of retail spaces, including cafes and service-oriented businesses, making it easy to grab a coffee or run an errand without leaving the premises. The grand, modern lobby serves as an impressive entry point, staffed with professional security and concierge services to welcome guests and assist tenants.

A key feature is the public plaza located at the base of the tower. This landscaped open space provides a welcome respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. With seating and greenery, it’s a popular spot for employees to take a lunch break or for passersby to rest. The integration of public space was a key part of the design, helping to connect the private commercial tower with the public life of the street. This thoughtful planning enhances the quality of life for everyone who works in or visits 599 Lexington Ave NY NY. For more insights into how urban planning shapes modern cities, resources like those on forbesplanet.co.uk can offer a global perspective.

Inside the Tower: A Look at the Infrastructure

The internal workings of 599 Lexington Ave NY NY are just as impressive as its exterior. The building operates on advanced systems that ensure efficiency, comfort, and safety. A modern, destination-dispatch elevator system reduces wait times and improves traffic flow, especially during peak morning and evening hours. The climate control systems are highly sophisticated, allowing for precise temperature regulation across different zones and floors, ensuring a comfortable environment year-round.

Furthermore, the building boasts robust telecommunications infrastructure, providing tenants with reliable, high-speed internet and data connectivity—a critical requirement for today’s businesses. Security is paramount, with 24/7 monitoring, controlled access points, and a professional security team. These behind-the-scenes features are what make 599 Lexington Ave NY NY a seamless and secure place to conduct business, reflecting its status as a top-tier commercial property.

What’s Nearby? Exploring the Surrounding Area

Working at 599 Lexington Ave NY NY means being at the center of everything. The immediate vicinity is packed with attractions, services, and conveniences that enrich the daily experience.

Dining and Entertainment

The dining scene around the building is incredibly diverse. You can find everything from grab-and-go sandwich shops to elegant, fine-dining establishments perfect for business lunches. The area is also close to Broadway’s theater district, offering world-class entertainment just a short subway ride or taxi trip away.

Cultural Institutions

For those interested in arts and culture, the location is ideal. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is nearby, housing one of the world’s most famous collections of modern and contemporary art. Historic landmarks such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Waldorf Astoria hotel add to the neighborhood’s character and charm.

Parks and Recreation

While Midtown is known for its density, green space is still accessible. Central Park is within a reasonable walking distance, offering a vast expanse for recreation, relaxation, and exercise. Smaller public plazas and parks are also scattered throughout the area, providing quiet corners to unwind.

Retail and Shopping

From the luxury boutiques on Madison Avenue to the flagship stores on Fifth Avenue, the shopping options are unparalleled. Whether you’re looking for high fashion, electronics, or books, you’ll find it all within a few blocks of 599 Lexington Ave NY NY.

Getting to 599 Lexington Ave NY NY: Transportation Guide

One of the most significant advantages of 599 Lexington Ave NY NY is its exceptional access to public transportation. The building’s direct connection to a major subway station makes commuting incredibly convenient.

• Subway: The 51st Street station (4, 6, <6> trains) and the Lexington Ave/53rd Street station (E, M trains) are accessible directly from the building’s concourse level. This network connects you to nearly every part of Manhattan, as well as Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.
• Bus: Numerous city bus routes run along Lexington Avenue, Third Avenue, and the surrounding cross-streets, providing additional options for getting around town.
• Commuter Rail: Grand Central Terminal, a ten-minute walk away, is the hub for the Metro-North Railroad, serving Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess counties in New York, as well as Fairfield and New Haven counties in Connecticut.
• Car and Taxi: The building is easily accessible from the FDR Drive. While driving in Midtown can be challenging, there are numerous parking garages in the vicinity for those who choose to drive.

This transit-rich location is a major draw for companies, as it simplifies the daily commute for employees and makes it easy for clients and visitors to reach the office. The property is one of many skyscrapers in New York City that have become iconic parts of its landscape and history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Who was the architect of 599 Lexington Ave NY NY?
A: The building was designed by the renowned American architect Edward Larrabee Barnes, a key figure in postmodern architecture.

Q: How tall is 599 Lexington Ave NY NY?
A: The tower stands 653 feet (199 meters) tall and contains 50 stories.

Q: What subway lines are connected to the building?
A: The building has a direct underground connection to the 51st Street and Lexington Ave/53rd Street station complex, which serves the 4, 6, <6>, E, and M subway lines.

Q: Is there public space at 599 Lexington Ave NY NY?
A: Yes, the building features a public plaza at its base with seating and landscaping, providing a welcoming open space for tenants and the public.

Q: What type of businesses are located in the building?
A: 599 Lexington Ave NY NY is primarily occupied by tenants in the legal, financial, and consulting industries, including many prestigious law firms and financial services companies.