Chanin Building

The Chanin Building is an Art Deco skyscraper on East 42nd Street in Manhattan with 56 floors constructed from brick, limestone, and terracotta, adorned with bronze ornaments. The structure rises approximately 198 meters and houses commercial offices today.

The building was completed in 1929 by architects Sloan and Robertson and quickly became one of the tallest structures in New York during a period of economic growth. This construction period marked a moment of great expansion in the city, shortly before major economic shifts followed.

The facade displays eight plaster reliefs showing achievement through geometric patterns and floral motifs in the Art Deco style. Visitors can observe these crafted details that define the passage between East 42nd Street and Grand Central Terminal.

The building sits near Grand Central Terminal and several subway stations, making it easy to reach by public transportation. Visitors should note that the interior consists mainly of office space, and the best views of architectural details are available from outside.

The lobby originally housed a Baltimore and Ohio Railroad bus terminal equipped with marble, which operated until 1958. This unusual feature reflected the transportation importance in Manhattan's business centers at that time.

Location: Manhattan

Architects: Sloan & Robertson

Official opening: 1929

Architectural style: Art Deco architecture

Floors above the ground: 56

Height: 198 m

Address: 122 East 42nd Street

GPS coordinates: 40.75111,-73.97556

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:08