The Lipstick Building

New York, New York, 10022

The Lipstick Building

The Lipstick Building, completed in 1986, is a signature Postmodern office tower designed by Philip Johnson & John Burgee for Hines Interests. Its distinctively telescoping cylindrical form—clad in rich red Imperial granite and stainless steel—conjures the shape of a giant lipstick tube, giving the building its playful moniker. The structure rises 34 stories (453 ft) above a colonnaded granite base set atop double-height columns that emphasize openness and urban presence.

Constructed during a wave of Postmodernism, the design broke from the rigid minimalism of corporate towers by adding historical gesture through setbacks at the 19th and 27th floors and a dramatic granite crown. A nine-story annex bridges functional needs while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The base lobby was refreshed in 2024 by MdeAS Architects, featuring white marble walls and a noteworthy Imi Knoebel sculpture as part of a modern upgrade.

Interesting Facts

  • Its lipstick-like appearance earned it the city nickname the “Lipstick Building”.

  • This was architect Philip Johnson’s first major postmodern work in NYC, redefining skyscraper design.

  • Notorious tenant history: Bernard Madoff’s investment firm operated on the 17th floor.

  • The lobby renovation in 2024 introduced modern art and sleek materials while maintaining its historic character.

Photos:

The Lipstick Building
The Lipstick Building
The Lipstick Building

Map:

Category: Traditional Column Architecture
Address: 800 3rd Ave FRNT A #1801
10022
Place Name: Lipstick Building
Architectural Style: Postmodern
Fees:

  • No public admission fee; primarily an office building.

  • Leasing rates vary based on floor and tenant requirements—visit the website for details.

Pets Policy:

  • As a Class-A office tower, no pets are permitted beyond service animals under ADA guidelines.

  • Lobby areas adhere to standard office building policies—service animals allowed.

Amenities:

  • Class A office space: ~636,000 ft², high-speed elevators, modern MEP systems, high sustainability credentials (LEED Gold, ENERGY STAR, WiredScore, BOMA 360).

  • Lobby & plaza: Public pedestrian arcade, open seating, modern art installation, improved lighting and finishes from 2024 renovation .

  • Retail & dining: Wolfgang’s Steakhouse (since replaced by Epicerie Boulud café and seating) adjacent to the lobby.

  • Transit access: Direct connection to Lexington Ave/53rd St subway station (E, M, 6) due to developer-built entrance.

Image Attributions:

Kenneth C. Zirkel, Lipstick building, viewed from 10th floor, CC BY 4.0

ajay_suresh, Lipstick Building (51923067068), CC BY 2.0

François Rejeté from Paris, moving to Japan, France, Lipstick building, CC BY 2.0