The Chrysler Building is Getting an Observation Deck

The Chrysler Building, an Art Deco skyscraper, built in 1928, is getting a brand-new observation deck.

The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) unanimously approved building owner RFR Realty’s proposal for a glass-walled viewing platform that will be open to the public.

Architecture firm Gensler and RFR presented renderings of the space and details of their plans at an LPC meeting.

The building, located at 405 Lexington Ave. between 42nd and 43rd streets, is 77 floors. The deck will be located on terraces that surround the 61st floor, just above the silver eagles that jut out from the tower at every corner.

RFR bought the famed building across the street from Grand Central Terminal in March of 2019 for the bargain price of $150 million. The previous majority owner, the Abu Dhabi Investment Council, paid $800 million for the Chrysler in 2008.
“I see the building as a Sleeping Beauty. It needs to be woken up and revitalized,” said RFR chief Aby Rosen.

Rosen also said he wanted to bring back an observation deck; the last one, dubbed the Celestial, closed in 1945 after about 15 years in operation on the 71st floor. He’s also expressed interest in opening restaurants, retail and a food hall at the Chrysler.