Contrast is what makes the eye stop to admire. Much like the incongruous pyramid parked in front of the Louvre, the 32-foot glass cube on Fifth Avenue, situated in front of a landmark architecture, drew attention to not only the Apple insignia suspended within it but to Harry Macklowe, the real-estate developer and Bohlin Cywinski Jackson for its praised designs. Macklowe, the bold investor, is hoping that unique design will work a second time when he collaborated with CIM Group to construct a similar glass structure as part of the skyscraper designated for prime Park Avenue site.
Although nothing has been finalized as of yet, Macklowe plans to incorporate a five-story glass box, similar to the Apple Store’s, somewhere on the skyscraper’s façade. The proposed tower on Park and 56th Street will house apartments, and possibly a hotel and restaurants. With 100,000 square feet of commercial space to offer in the designs, retailers are sure to be nibbling at Mr. Macklowe’s Ferragamos in hopes for a spot in his eye-catching building. It’s a no brainer for businesses looking for free advertising stemming from the architecture and address alone.
Financing might give the hungry developers some bumps in the road. The economic recession seems to have hindered the touted project already, but with a little Macklowe magic, not for long. Â he wheels should be full of air and ready to roll sooner than retailers can say wrecking ball.
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