One Vanderbilt, the 427-metre skyscraper that has transformed the Manhattan skyline, stands as one of New York’s most significant architectural landmarks. Completed in 2020, the 62-storey tower combines premium office space, advanced façade engineering and a public observation experience at its summit, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
Developed by SL Green Realty Corp., with design by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), construction management by Tishman Construction and development management by Hines, the project required a highly complex façade solution capable of meeting the tower’s distinctive geometry and performance requirements.
Permasteelisa North America was responsible for the complete façade design, engineering, manufacturing and installation, delivering more than 68,000 square metres of façade across the building. The installation involved 8,743 unitized panels, produced in 1,060 different configurations to accommodate the tower’s constantly changing geometry.
The architectural concept is defined by four interlocking, tapering planes that twist upward toward the sky, creating the building’s dynamic vertical expression. The façade incorporates large vision panels with glass units reaching almost 6.7 metres in height on executive floors, providing expansive views of Manhattan. Ventilated spandrel panels finished with terracotta tiles add depth, texture and a distinctive material character to the exterior. 
A major engineering challenge was the creation of the tower’s unique corner conditions. Permasteelisa manufactured 660 individually designed corner panels, each adapted to the building’s tapering profile. The façade also features nearly 35,000 concave terracotta tiles, carefully positioned to reflect sunlight and enhance the building’s changing appearance throughout the day.
Beyond its architectural impact, One Vanderbilt achieved high sustainability standards, receiving both LEED Platinum and WELL certification. The combination of advanced façade technology, energy performance and occupant-focused design has established the tower as a benchmark for high-rise construction in New York.
Source: Permasteelisa with additional information added by Glass Balkan
