Equitable Life Building

The Equitable Life Building, completed in 1870 at 120 Broadway in Manhattan, New York City, is often hailed as one of the world’s first skyscrapers. Designed by architects Arthur Gilman and Edward H. Kendall, with George B. Post as consulting engineer, the building stood at seven stories tall and was notable for being the first office building to feature passenger elevators. Its innovative use of a skeletal steel frame allowed for greater height and more open interior spaces, setting a precedent for future skyscraper construction.

Despite its groundbreaking design, the original Equitable Life Building was destroyed by fire in 1912. The current structure, completed in 1915 and also known as the Equitable Building, was designed by Ernest R. Graham and stands at 40 stories tall. Its massive, unbroken façade led to public outcry over the building’s impact on light and air in the surrounding streets, ultimately contributing to the adoption of New York City’s 1916 Zoning Resolution, which introduced setback requirements for tall buildings.

Interesting Facts

• Original Construction: 1868–1870

• Original Height: Approximately 130 feet (7 stories)

• Architects: Arthur Gilman and Edward H. Kendall; consulting engineer George B. Post

• Innovations: First office building with passenger elevators; early use of skeletal steel frame

• Destruction: Destroyed by fire in 1912

• Current Building: Completed in 1915; designed by Ernest R. Graham

• Height: Approximately 538 feet (40 stories)

• Architectural Style: Beaux-Arts

• Significance: Influenced the 1916 Zoning Resolution due to its massive bulk

• Current Use: Office building with modern amenities