Realizing unparalleled immersive observatory experience 1,000 feet above ground in New York City

Our experts tested the feasibility of the concepts for the art in the exhibits which created a sequence of exhibits and provided additional assistance sequencing lights at the entrance to the experience. 

The SUMMIT experience differentiates the One Vanderbilt’s observatory area from that of any other office tower in New York while providing sensory novelty to visitors.

Research-based feasibility work at the heart of creative design

Drawing on collaborations with other artists, Arup explored the feasibility of artistic concepts utilizing mirrors, lighting, and visual effects as the experience was being conceptualized. A 24-hour approach was followed, with different considerations for day and night parameters.

Our research informed the design for visual and physical comfort, visitor acclimation, and code compliance. Further analysis was conducted on the potential glare and heat concentration from the multiple interior sun reflections and validated critical factors such as exit sign legibility.

In addition to utilizing existing medical grade research, a proof-of-concept mock-up was created to test the digital lighting systems for an infinity space. At this point, our multidisciplinary experts collaborated with Snøhetta to adjust wall locations, spatial orientation, and fine-tune the lighting systems. This was followed by an analysis of the human factors of the experience, such as visual comfort within the highly reflective mirrored spaces.  

For the opening elevator ride, Arup designed a lighting experience that changes with the soundscape and continues to the first floor of the observatory, where the exhibits are hosted. Once there, the elevator opens to the “Hall of Light,” a curved corridor resembling the effect of “walking into the sky.” Visitors then enter “Transcendence,” a double-height, fully-mirrored room with infinite reflections of the cityscape, which may be experienced on two levels. This is followed by “Reflect”, an art exhibit space and “Affinity”, a mirrored room with floating reflective spheres.

A floor above, transparent sky boxes entitled “Levitation” jut out of the building, suspending guests 1,000 feet high with a glass floor view. Separately, a mirrored room experience, “Unity,” hosts a full video wall screen displaying art.