AT&T Building

Completed in 1984, the AT&T Building (now 550 Madison) is a signature piece of Postmodern architecture crafted by Philip Johnson and John Burgee, with Simmons Architects as associates. It dramatically deviates from the glass-and-steel minimalist skyscrapers of its time by featuring a towering 40‑ft granite arch, ornamental broken pediment crown (nicknamed “Chippendale”), and richly articulated base—ushering in a new era of architectural design that celebrated historical reference and ornamentation.

The building encloses a 37‑story, 647‑ft limestone-clad tower above a multi-story granite base, along with a public pedestrian arcade and atrium through the block between 55th and 56th Streets—a creative response to zoning incentives. Recently renovated under owner Olayan Group and architect Snøhetta, its lobby, streetscape, and public garden were refreshed while preserving the distinctive arch and crown.

Interesting Facts

• World’s first Postmodern skyscraper, appearing on the front page of The New York Times in 1978; instantly dubbed “Chippendale” for its top.

• Became NYC’s youngest landmark in 2018, protecting its exterior against approved redesigns .

• Initially included the “Golden Boy” statue, AT&T’s emblem moved from its former headquarters—though the lobby was later demolished during renovations.

• The four-story granite annex was replaced in the 2020s to create a glass-canopied pedestrian arcade and new garden.