Chrysler Building

New York, New York, 10174

Chrysler Building

Completed in 1930, the Chrysler Building is an iconic Art Deco skyscraper designed by William Van Alen, commissioned by Walter P. Chrysler. Its stainless-steel crown, shaped like a radiating sunburst, and its crown-clad gargoyles and radiator-cap motifs reference the automotive industry, making it one of the most distinctive buildings in the world.

Although it briefly held the title of the world’s tallest building (1046 ft) until the Empire State was completed in 1931, its dramatic silhouette remains a celebrated marvel of skyscraper design. Inside, the lobby features opulent Art Deco elements—red African granite walls, yellow travertine floors, and a ceiling mural “Transport and Human Endeavor” by Edward Trumbull—an embodiment of industry and progress.

Interesting Facts

  • Briefly the tallest building in the world (May 1930–May 1931), thanks to its secretly installed spire.

  • The world’s tallest brick building, with a steel frame and over 3,800 windows .

  • Score and NYC Landmark status granted both exterior (1976) and lobby interior (1978); also a National Historic Landmark.

  • The gargoyles and hood ornaments on the 31st and 61st floors pay homage to Chrysler car designs.

  • Its lobby mural was restored during a 1998 renovation that cost around $100 million.

Photos:

Chrysler Building
Chrysler Building
Chrysler Building

Map:

Category: Art Deco Architecture and Historic NYC
Address: 405 Lexington Ave
10174
Place Name: Chrysler Building
Architectural Style: notable for its stainless-steel crown, crown spire, decorative eagles, sunburst motifs, and opulent lobby materials
Official website
Fees:

  • No public observation deck or paid tours; only lobby access is available without fee.

  • Most spaces are private tenants; access beyond public areas is restricted.

Pets Policy:

  • No pets allowed inside the building beyond the lobby.

  • Service animals permitted under ADA guidelines.

  • Pets are not permitted beyond this space.

Amenities:

  • Public lobby: Open during business hours, showcasing the restored Art Deco interior .

  • Retail spaces: A few ground-floor shops for tenants and visitors.

  • Tenant services: Modern elevator systems, security, lobby desk, meeting rooms, and floor options ranging from 4,000–75,000 sq ft .

  • Accessibility: Public access areas via lobby are wheelchair accessible.

  • Restrooms: Limited public restrooms in lobby area.

Image Attributions:

Tony Hisgett from Birmingham, UK, Chrysler Building Lobby 2, CC BY 2.0

w:User:Overand derivative work: Overand (talk), Chrysler Building by David Shankbone Retouched, CC BY-SA 3.0