Chrysler Building, Art Deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan, United States
The Chrysler Building is a 77-story structure rising 1,047 feet (319 meters) at the intersection of 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue, built with steel, glass, and limestone. The spire consists of seven telescoping arches of stainless steel, while the facade shows triangular windows and Art Deco ornamental details.
Construction began in 1928 under architect William Van Alen for automotive magnate Walter P. Chrysler and was completed in 1930. The upper floors were assembled in four months, making it the tallest building in the world for eleven months until the Empire State Building opened.
Office workers occupy most of the floors, while visitors step into the lobby to admire the decorative metalwork and polished wall panels. Many passersby stop on the sidewalk to photograph the illuminated spire at night, which has become part of Midtown's evening silhouette.
The lobby can be visited on weekdays, though there is no public observation deck inside. The main entrance sits on Lexington Avenue and can be reached via subway lines 4, 5, 6, or 7 to Grand Central Station.
The spire was assembled secretly inside and lifted into place in 90 minutes to surprise rival architects and claim the height record. Silver ornaments shaped like automobile hood figures sit at the corners of the 31st floor, honoring the automotive industry connection.
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