Equitable Tower West by Edward Larrabee Barnes

Equitable Tower West, located at 787 Seventh Avenue, is a prime example of postmodern architecture in Manhattan. Designed by Edward Larrabee Barnes, the building’s facade blends modern materials like granite and glass with classical architectural elements, creating a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic. Its structured, symmetrical design and formal detailing reflect a sense of dignity and professionalism, making it a distinguished landmark in the city’s urban office landscape.

Interesting Facts

• Location: 787 Seventh Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.
• Architect: Designed by renowned architect Edward Larrabee Barnes.
• Completed: Opened in 1985.
• Design: Exemplifies a postmodern style that incorporates formal, classical references into a modern framework.
• Facade: Features a striking combination of granite and reflective glass.
• Function: Primarily an office tower, part of a larger mixed-use development that includes retail at the ground level.
• Accessibility: The building is easily accessible via several major public transportation lines.

Best Time to Visit

• As a commercial building, Equitable Tower West is not a tourist destination, but its public-facing ground-floor retail is accessible year-round.
• The best time to be in the surrounding area is during the spring or fall, when the weather is pleasant and the pedestrian traffic is less intense than in the summer.
• For the best chance of avoiding crowds in nearby Times Square, visit early in the morning or later in the evening.

Other Nearby Attractions

• Times Square: The iconic and bustling center of the city, famous for its electronic billboards and Broadway theaters.
• Carnegie Hall: A world-renowned concert venue just a short walk away.
• Central Park: A massive urban oasis offering a variety of activities and serene green spaces.
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): One of the world’s most influential museums of modern and contemporary art.
• Radio City Music Hall: An historic entertainment venue and home to the Rockettes.

Considerations for Travel

• The area is a major transit hub, with numerous subway lines (including the B, D, E, N, Q, R, and W trains) stopping at the 7th Avenue and 50th Street stations, which are a short walk away.
• Traffic is consistently heavy, so using public transportation is the most efficient way to travel to and from the area.
• Foot traffic is extremely dense, especially during business hours and around major attractions like Times Square. Be prepared for crowds.
• Entry to the office tower itself is restricted to tenants and authorized visitors, but the ground-floor retail is open to the public.

Top Accommodations

• Sheraton New York Times Square: A large hotel with a variety of rooms and amenities, located just two blocks from Equitable Tower West. (Approx. Price: $220-$450 per night)
• The Warwick New York: A historic and elegant hotel with a classic feel. (Approx. Price: $200-$400 per night)
• The Michelangelo Hotel: A luxurious Italian-themed hotel offering a high-end experience in a prime location. (Approx. Price: $250-$500+ per night)
• W New York – Times Square: A stylish and modern hotel with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action. (Approx. Price: $250-$500 per night)