there is already a thread for this building in the NASF Archives with one single post. so i decided to open a new thread here in the highrise section! the tower is located at 50 west 47th street, diamond district in midtown (47th street between 5th and 6th avenues). construction is well underway after a long stop.

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z70/Scruffy66/saya/renders/dia2.jpg

http://weblogs.amny.com/entertainment/urbanite/blog/2009/05/diamond_district_highrise_coul.html

Diamond district high-rise could be boon for New York's jewel biz

http://weblogs.amny.com/entertainment/urbanite/blog/Exterior%2520%252D%252047th%2520Street%2520%252D%2520Hero%2520%252D%2520Day.jpg

By Jason Fink
May 19, 2009

It may seem like an unusual time to spend money on the luxury jewelry industry but that's what city officials were touting Monday as they unveiled plans for a new 34-story office building in the heart of the diamond district.

Construction is about to begin on the International Gem Tower on West 47th Street, a high-rise that will house office space, vaults and retail for diamond dealers. The city plans to provide some $50 million in tax incentives for the project, being built by Extell Development.

"Diamonds are one of New York's best friends and one of our most enduring industries," said Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Extell is also seeking "free trade zone" status, which would allow companies to import, cut, and then export stones without paying import duties.

The city tax breaks will come only if the building is 85 percent occupied by jewelry related businesses and if 50 percent of the businesses are either new or expanded from existing locations, rather than simply relocated.

Bloomberg said the city's diamond industry is facing increased competition from international cities such as Dubai. Giving tax incentives, he argued, will keep diamond dealers in the city and help anchor the industry during a period of economic distress.

The city said the new project, expected to be complete by 2011, will provide 3,000 jobs with some 250 businesses. Many of those will be taken by workers coming from oversees, Extell officials said.

___________________________________

http://www.jckonline.com/article/CA6659280.html

Bloomberg Launches 47th Street "Gem Tower"

By Rob Bates
5/19/2009


The proposed 34-storey “International Gem Tower” in the 47th Street “diamond district” got high-powered support Tuesday morning, with New York Michael Bloomberg attending its kick-off.

The tower, which is due to be completed mid-2011, will be a sleek building at 50 West 47th Street that will feature both jewelry and non-jewelry tenants in its "office condominiums," as well as entrances on both 46th and 47th Streets.

In an exclusive interview with JCK, Gary Barnett, CEO of building developer Extell Development Company, noted that the tower had yet to sign any big name tenants, since it hadn’t begun marketing itself. But he said there was “already a lot of interest.”

Barnett said his background in the industry got him involved in the project. He said that many 47th Street buildings were “behind the times” and that he hoped a modern structure could help New York compete with other diamond centers.

“The tower will be an incredible addition to 47th Street and the New York skyline,” he told the crowd at the kick-off.

He also said the tower hoped to include a “free-trade zone” that would attract foreign buyers.

Speakers noted that, for the building to receive certain tax abatements, 85% of its tenants would have to be jewelry-related.

Bloomberg called the diamond industry “one of New York’s best friends and one of New York’s enduring industries.”

He said the tower’s construction casts “a strong vote of confidence in the city.”


http://www.jckonline.com/articles/images/JCK/20090519/Bloomberg%20028.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/nyguy/image/112741596/large.jpg

http://www.nationaljewelernetwork.com/njn/content_display/diamonds/supply/e3ie134e4df1181c4800cbbc8a61b4cebbd

Crane rises on New York's International Gem Tower

http://www.nationaljewelernetwork.com/njn/photos/stylus/104025-090109_GemTowerL.jpg

September 01, 2009


New York--Construction on the International Gem Tower (IGT), a 34-story building designed as an exclusive property for the jewelry trade, got underway in New York City's famed Diamond District over the weekend, according to a press release from Extell Development Co.

A tower crane was erected at the development site for the IGT, located at 50 West 47th St. between Fifth and Sixth avenues in Manhattan.

The crane is now fully functional and mobilized, according to the release. Following inspection by New York City's Department of Buildings, slated to take place sometime this week, steel will be arriving on site and construction will move forward as planned, the release states.

The first phase of the project, expected to be completed by the end of 2009, includes three below-grade floors that will house retail space, a vault, valet parking facilities and underground loading docks.

According to the release, the tower is slated to be completed and open in the fall of 2011.

At the tower's official launch in May, Extell announced that it would have $300 million invested in the project at the completion of the first phase and was looking for further funding to continue.

Extell representatives did not respond to request for comment on Tuesday on the current state of funding for the project.

"We are excited about the industry response to this building," Raizy Haas, Extell senior vice president in charge of the project, said in the release. "With significant letters of interest in hand and construction moving ahead, we are committed to delivering a world-class international center for the gem and jewelry trades; a first for the United States and a stunning architectural and functional space for the city."

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg was on hand for the launch of the tower in May and noted that the tower was needed to help the city remain competitive in the international jewelry trade.

Similar towers exist in Shanghai, China, and in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3788342,00.html

New NYC diamond exchange based on Israeli model
Manhattan building to be established upon Israel Diamond Exchange model. President of Israel's exchange praises initiative, says Israel may even benefit from it. Exchange building, which will cost $750 million, will provide all necessary services and security for those working in field

http://www.ynetnews.com/PicServer2/02022009/2213089/m_wa.jpg


10.11.09, 15:32
Israel Business


Another source of pride: A diamond exchange center is being established in Manhattan based on the Israeli model. Upon the mid-2011 completion of the building that will house the largest diamond and jewelry center in the US, Manhattan's Diamond District is expecting to be revolutionized. The building will be known as the International Gem Tower.

The new center is in actuality an exact copy of the model used in the Israeli Diamond Exchange, which is located in Ramat Gan, and will provide all the necessary services for the industry under one roof and will up the level of personal security provided to those working in the field. The project will cost an estimated $750 million.

The diamond and jewelry exchanges in Manhattan are located in what is known as the Diamond District, located on 47th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues. According to US-based Extell Development, which is building the new exchange building, hundreds of people in the diamond business around the world are renting old, dilapidated buildings in the Diamond District, and are forced to deal with below par work conditions on a daily basis.

Extell additionally claimed that the existing level of security is insufficient for dealing in diamonds and jewelry. This also happens to be the reason the American company takes pride on the fact that it has planned the new complex based on the Israeli model, in which four buildings are interconnected through a system of bridges, which provide diamond dealers from around the world comprehensive and total answers for all their needs. The model has been combined into one 34-storey, 70 sq. meter (about 750 sq. feet) building.

"Israeli diamond dealers have grown accustomed to doing business under the mantle of increased security provided by the diamond exchange in Ramat Gan that provides quite a wide range of services," said Extell's Senior Vice President of Project Management, Raizy Haas. "The tower that will be built will provide the perfect response for all the needs of the diamond and jewelry dealers, including the most advanced security methods in the world."

'Israel won't be hurt'

Israel Diamond Exchange President Avi Paz did not hide his sense of pride in the planned Manhattan complex in a conversation with Ynet: "From India, from Turkey, and from other countries, people have come to learn from us how to organize secure compounds for diamond dealers. We teach them how to provide a commercial infrastructure for the diamond dealer from a security perspective and supporting services for the diamond dealers."

But will this come at the expense of the Diamond Exchange in Ramat Gan?

"The fact that such amenities will be accessible to the Israeli trader will help, serve, and make trading easier. Such a center in New York is a blessing for us because the city is our sales center. The more developed the center is, the more convenient and simple it will be to sell merchandise there – also in terms of security.

"You also have to remember that every second diamond sold in the US comes from Israel. We still have a comparative advantage in polishing, especially in large stones," added Paz.

You won't lose buyers to the center in New York?

"The second intifada decreased the number of buyers. Buyers abroad have already grown accustomed to the fact that we go to them and we are making huge efforts in order to bring them back."

But, when the situation improves, they are likely not to return because there are other options.

"Yes. It is good that these centers are being established. We must find new markets and improve existing ones. We are already on the path to bringing buyers back to Israel."

And what about the diamond dealers themselves?

"The diamond dealers won't move their businesses (to New York). Those are just offices in a building in New York that provides support and security for trading. As of now, there already is the capability of going abroad in the Israel Diamond Exchange. The better the facilities, the better the marketing capabilities will be."

It's no secret that the sector is facing difficulties. Will this building help boost the industry?

"The market will grow when the recession recedes and the demand for luxury items increases, especially for those that maintain their value like diamonds. A diamond is a long-term investment channel. In this context, the building in New York will only help."

Extell is slated to host an event on October 19 for Israeli diamond company representatives to explain and market the New York project.

stocks photography/back from NYC (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stocksphotography/4005593747/sizes/l/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2606/4005593747_df7d389abd_b.jpg

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/realestate/commercial/gia_signs_gem_of_deal_lg6yQEf3NijXXxWIqHjr9M

GIA signs a gem of a deal

By STEVE CUOZZO
January 12, 2010


In a major breakthrough for Extell's International Gem Tower, the venerable Gemological Institute of America will move its famed New York "laboratory" into the eagerly awaited, 34-story project now poking out of the ground at 44 W. 47th St.

GIA just signed a contract to buy an entire floor (30,000 square feet) in the tower, a commercial condominium for the world jewelry trade.

Terms were not disclosed and there won't be a public filing until the deal closes. But whatever the price, it's a coup for Extell President Gary Barnett, who has been courting GIA ever since he started assembling the site.

GIA will move from 580 Fifth Ave., where "there's inefficiency in their old space, which is on several floors," said Extell Senior Development Vice President Raizy Haas. The Gem tower will offer "21st Century" infrastructure and security, "which is key to the industry," she said.

The nonprofit GIA plays an integral role in the gem world with its research, grading and education programs. GIA President and CEO Donna Baker said, "This purchase will increase our efficiency and help GIA manage its long-term costs."

Extell has completed the tower's foundation and construction is expected to be completed in 2012.

NYGuy, SSP
JANUARY 15, 2010

http://www.pbase.com/nyguy/image/121111642/large.jpg


http://www.pbase.com/nyguy/image/121111642/original.jpg

Thanks for posting this. I was reading about it in Jewelers Circular Keystone (JCK), the premier fine jewelry trade magazine in North America.

I am a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America.

nice building. Curious to know what kind of security technology they are implementing. Too bad they probably will not say it. It would be after all, counterproductive.

Another 3B building:
Boxy,boring and bland.
Oh and btw that seems to be a nice neighborhood,I mean because of the rowhouses.

Another 3B building:
Boxy,boring and bland.
Oh and btw that seems to be a nice neighborhood,I mean because of the rowhouses.

yeah well, there are many, many highrises out there which are much worse. me personally, i think this tower looks good. the only problem i have is the height, it should be at least 200m! in the meantime some news...

http://www.idexonline.com/portal_FullNews.asp?id=33495

Israeli Companies Lease Space in New York’s New Gem Tower

http://www.idexonline.com/image_bank/image_folders/Places/IGT_New_Tower_in_NewYork.jpg
The International Gem Tower is set to be completed in 2012

(January 18, '10, 6:20 Edon Ophir)


Four Israeli diamond companies, A. Dalumi Diamonds, Sahar Atid Diamonds, Yerushalmi Bros. Diamonds` and Yondor Diamonds Ltd., have purchased office space in the International Gem Tower (IGT) currently under construction in New York, the development company building the IGT announced Monday.

Altogether, the companies will occupy more than 15,000 square feet of space in the 34-story tower. Designed exclusively for the gem and jewelry trade, the IGT will offer the latest security and technology innovations for trade companies planning to lease office space there.

The IGT also plans to bring to New York what already exists in major industry centers throughout the world by uniting gem and jewelry companies in one tower.

"[Dalumi] is thrilled about the purchase," said Meir Dalumi, managing director of the Dalumi Group. "The International Gem Tower will bring to 47th Street the conveniences and amenities of an industry hub that we are accustomed to in Israel."

Wow, nice one in this dense area. Thanks for posting this one is new for me!

Wow, nice one in this dense area. Thanks for posting this one is new for me!

Thanks for posting this. I was reading about it in Jewelers Circular Keystone (JCK), the premier fine jewelry trade magazine in North America.

I am a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America.

you're welcome. :)

Another 3B building:
Boxy,boring and bland.
Oh and btw that seems to be a nice neighborhood,I mean because of the rowhouses.

Definitely boxy. Please keep in mind this high rise building is being sandwiched in between other buildings on a side street (47th St.) NOT on a wide avenue such as the Bank Of America tower or the New York Times building.

But not bland or boring ... because the glassy window design will make it look like a faceted jewel - with angles giving a beveled appearance, and it will sparkle when the sun light hits it.

some news provided by NYGuy, SSP

http://www.diamondintelligence.com/magazine/magazine.aspx?id=8453

MALCA-AMIT PURCHASES SPACE AT INTERNATIONAL GEM TOWER

20 January 2010

Global valuables courier service, Malca-Amit, has purchased space in Extell Development Company's new International Gem Tower (IGT) now under construction on 47th Street in New York. The company is under contract to buy a 6,600 square-foot commercial condominium and will be relocating its corporate North American headquarters to the new tower now under construction on 47th Street.

Malca says that this move is "necessary" to grow both its North American and global operations. The company plans to design a 21st-century, secure transport and delivery facility in its new space. "In order to be most effective and best serve our clients we need to be at the future center of the district.To put it simply, we need to be where our clients will be," said Amit Eitan, president of Malca-Amit.

Set for completion in 2012, the International Gem Tower will provide services and amenities solely for New York's diamond district.

http://www.israelidiamond.co.il/english/News.aspx?boneId=918&objid=6605

Successful sales at the International Gem Tower

10.02.10

A delegation of senior officials from Extell Development Company, the developer that is building the iconic International Gem Tower Company in New York's Diamond District, will be visiting Israel from February 14-17.

Since Extell's first visit to the Israel Diamond Exchange in Ramat Gan last October, a number of Israel-based companies have signed contracts to purchase office space in the state-of-the-art office building. Among them are three Diamond Trading Company (DTC) sightholders, A. Dalumi Diamonds, Sahar Atid Diamonds and Yerushalmi Bros. Diamonds. Additionally, Yondor Diamonds Ltd., another leading diamond firm, and Malca-Amit, a global valuables courier service, have also signed on to take space. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the world's foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones and pearls has purchased an entire floor.

"With close to 100,000 square feet under contract, some of the best locations in the building have been purchased. Response to the project has been overwhelmingly positive," said Raizy Haas, Senior Vice President of Extell Development. "Meanwhile, we continue to receive inquiries from Israeli companies looking to secure space at current pricing, which has already increased and will continue to increase."

nice design :)

Nice cladding. It will be interesting to see the first parts for real. :cool:

This is their website-> www.internationalgemtower.com

some more renders of this SOM designed tower-

http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/5214/igt1.jpg

http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/1189/81409373.jpg

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/2732/74598601.jpg

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/1972/26884899.jpg

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/2360/37895201.jpg

construction image from November:
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/9154/26718543.jpg

more images in the above website link

^^ thanks for the link. the renders look good. :)

looking good

its a nice look building but I don't really care for anything shorter then 700 feet in manhattan.

its a nice look building but I don't really care for anything shorter then 700 feet in manhattan.

well i'll stick to 656ft (=200m)! :D but sometimes there are exceptions when a tower is looking very cool.

icy...

pdstahl (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pdstahl/4391355877/sizes/l/)


http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4391355877_b66d3e4dac_b.jpg


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2209/4391356261_edb0fe2287_b.jpg


http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4392124620_73806a7a1a_b.jpg

found by NYGuy, SSP

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/realestate/commercial/clothes_call_on_park_ave_rjMi812ZLyQaF8gyVyURVK

By STEVE CUOZZO
March 16, 2010

Extell now has commitments for 100,000 square feet of its eagerly awaited International Gem Tower at 44 W. 47th St.

Raizy Haas, Extell's senior development vice president, said that between 50,000 and 75,000 additional square feet are in negotiation.

Meanwhile, she said, "We'll be out on the street in the next few months bidding out work to the major trades -- steel, concrete and elevators."

The 34-story project, conceived by Extell chief Gary Barnett and designed by Skidmore Owings & Merrill, would provide a state-of-the-art new home for an industry that's still clustered in antiquated warrens and workshops.

All of the tower's roughly 550,000 square feet devoted to the gem business are for sale as condominiums.

We reported in January that the Gemological Institute of America is buying a floor. Since then, several Israeli companies have signed up.

It seems coming directly from the 1960s! hehe, but I like it.

This tower could the easily be the tallest in Brooklyn, it won't even make it into the top 50's in Manhattan and that's to bad cus its pretty nice.

It seems coming directly from the 1960s! hehe, but I like it.

http://www.ynetnews.com/PicServer2/02022009/2213089/m_wa.jpg



We have obviously seen 2 different '60s, because a facade like this one makes most skyscrapers built in this decade look outdated. Please bring some examples of buildings built in the 60's that look more modern, because I'm seriously curious.

If we want to compare maybe with something built in the 60's to which you can relate to, look at the original buildings built in Brasilia (where many were finished during the 60's). I seriously would even be embarrassed to compare...


As for the building: once it is built, we will need to see pictures of it when the sun shines on it, it will probably be amazing.

We have obviously seen 2 different '60s, because a facade like this one makes most skyscrapers built in this decade look outdated. Please bring some examples of buildings built in the 60's that look more modern, because I'm seriously curious.

If we want to compare maybe with something built in the 60's to which you can relate to, look at the original buildings built in Brasilia (where many were finished during the 60's). I seriously would even be embarrassed to compare...


As for the building: once it is built, we will need to see pictures of it when the sun shines on it, it will probably be amazing.

Here some examples, not exatly from the 1960s.
I was talking about buildings like these:



Paris, mostly from the 1970s
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/3722809.jpg



http://www.emporis.com/img/6/2004/08/296641.jpg


http://www.emporis.com/img/6/2003/10/226073.jpg



Socony-Mobil Building on 42nd Street, NY - 1956
http://www.emporis.com/img/6/2008/04/606007.jpg




http://farm1.static.flickr.com/44/155477333_f8889de2b3_o.jpg



Wilton Paes de Almeida building - São Paulo, Brasil - 1965
http://mw2.google.com/mw-panoramio/photos/medium/3743323.jpg

Back façade
http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/18084760.jpg

The only thing is that facade technology was quite primitive then compared to now... the designs may be similar but the performance and the maintainability of the glazing is miles better and probably closer to the 60's designers' intentions...

The only thing is that facade technology was quite primitive then compared to now... the designs may be similar but the performance and the maintainability of the glazing is miles better and probably closer to the 60's designers' intentions...

Certainly.

took this shot 4 hours ago -

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/7286/dscn1848v.jpg

^ There's another steel column in front of the crane.

thx for the update, the site is busy - a good sign.

Love the design! Congrats NYC!

Here some examples, not exatly from the 1960s.
I was talking about buildings like these:



Paris, mostly from the 1970s


HAHAHA omg, if you are seriously comparing those facades with this one, the conversation is stopping here, it's not even funny anymore. It would be like discussing just how beautiful a sunny day is, with a blind man. Insulting.

http://www.nationaljewelernetwork.com/njn/content_display/diamonds/supply/e3if0e09b86f3dc219a06e75e9c5d23b311

NYC gem tower now foreign trade zone approved

June 01, 2010

The U.S. Department of Commerce has approved the new International Gem Tower in New York's Diamond District as a foreign trade zone (FTZ), the agency announced late last week.

The designation means that business tenants in the tower, which is still under construction, will be able to import foreign merchandise without customs entry or the payment of U.S. duties until the goods are sold. No duty will be payable on re-exported goods.

In a press release, Raizy Haas, senior vice president of tower developer Extell Development Co., said the approval of FTZ status is another key milestone in the progress of the tower, a 34-story commercial condominium designed specifically for the diamond, gem and jewelry trade.

"In 2012, New York will finally have a modern industry building to house the trade," he said. "And in addition to the beautiful design and technical innovation, we are focused on providing the services and amenities that drive value for our buyers."

Located at 50 W. 47 St. between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, the International Gem Tower is slated for completion in late 2012. More than 100,000 square feet of space has already been committed to various jewelry companies.

According to the release, the below-grade concrete and metal deck work is nearing completion at the construction site. Work is slated to soon begin on the utilities and slab on grade work and will take about three months.

The tower's development and sales teams will be at the upcoming Las Vegas Market Week shows, including at Couture 2010, Suite TS3 in the Diamond Pavilion, and at JCK Las Vegas, Booth L61.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704050804575318933235710228.html?mod=rss_newyork_real_estate

Office Developer Looks to Renegotiate Contracts

By ANTON TROIANOVSKI
June 21, 2010

Labor costs have come down so far that the developer of a new Diamond District office tower is putting some work on ice to renegotiate construction contracts.

"We are out on the street trying to rebid all of the major trades," Raizy Haas, who's in charge of the International Gem Tower project for developer Extell Development Co., said last week. "The savings on construction will far outweigh the delays of a couple months."

Ms. Haas is also touting some good news for the project: It was approved last month as a U.S. Foreign Trade Zone. The designation eliminates customs duties for items imported into and then exported out of the zone—an attractive proposition for the jewelry companies to which Extell is catering. The tower would become the only active foreign trade zone in Manhattan, a spokesman for the New York City Economic Development Corp. said.

The 35-story tower, being marketed as an office condominium project, is now slated to be completed by the end of 2012, Ms. Haas said.

http://www.crainsnewyork.com/article/20100623/REAL_ESTATE/100629926

NY set to announce loan program for Gem Tower
Empire State Development Corp. aims to help jewelers with financing so they can buy condos in the 34-story building on West 47th Street.

By Theresa Agovino
June 23, 2010


The Empire State Development Corp. is expected to announce on Thursday a loan program to help jewelry companies buy condos in the International Gem Tower, which is being developed by Gary Barnett, sources familiar with the plan said.

Mr. Barnett, a former diamond dealer, began building the 34-story building on West 47th Street in 2009, with an eye towards modernizing the city's diamond district. He will receive tax breaks worth up to $49.6 million from the city and state if 85% of the tower is filled with new or expanding jewelry businesses, according to an article in The New York Times.

However, the loan program is geared towards would-be buyers. Sources say it is not a new program but one that has been dormant for years. Calls to the ESDC and Mr. Barnett were not returned.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Commerce approved the building as a Foreign Trade Zone, published reports said. That means businesses in the tower will be permitted to import foreign merchandise without customs entry or payment of U.S. duties until the goods are sold.

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/realestate/commercial/filene_syms_in_brooklyn_OKD4N4Dvby3Tx6LyHhdruO

By STEVE CUOZZO
October 12, 2010



Extell's Gem Tower on West 47th Street has long been our favorite project to watch.

This column first carried an image of the diamond facet-inspired design, first reported that most of its 750,000 square feet would be sold as condos and first identified major space-buyers like the Gemological Institute of America.

But it's been slower in coming than Extell Chief Gary Barnett promised. Now the mid-block site has been built up to street level and a few steel columns are poking above it.

It's widely suggested that Extell needs commitments for a certain amount of space before it can land a construction loan. But the company has been coy about exactly how much.

Now, Diamond District Monthly says a contract with importer/manufacturer House of Diamonds has boosted the commitments to "about 150,000 of the 200,000 square feet Extell needs to secure construction financing."

Since Extell development director Raizy Haas sits on the board of the 47th Street BID, which publishes the monthly, that seemed authoritative.

Was it?

"It's accurate in the sense that we're getting closer to the number we need," said Haas, who was recouping her energy between returning from London the day before and setting off on a condo-buyer search to Mumbai.

"But," she emphasized, "we're not going to wait for 200,000 feet and for a construction loan to proceed. At the 200,000 foot-mark, we can get a loan more easily. We want our banks to feel comfortable.

She added, however, that "our [Mideast] partners are funding the project, and we'll start going vertical right after the first of the year with or without a construction loan."

That sounded like what Barnett told us in August about Extell's huge Carnegie Tower on West 57th Street, when we chided him that it didn't seem to be "going vertical" as he'd said three months earlier.

But a tower crane has since appeared on 57th Street. "We're pouring concrete there," Haas said.

Another tower crane looms over the 47th Street site. If the work underway presages full-bore construction, rival developers resentful of Barnett's seeming ability to shrug off the financing woes that crippled their own projects will soon have even more to be annoyed over.

Great news! I completely forgot about this one. Very exciting.

Extell Bringing Bling to Midtown in 2011
Tuesday, October 12, 2010, by Joey Arak

All eyes are on Extell's rising colossus on 57th Street, but Steve Cuozzo is aiming a sideways glance at the Diamond District in Midtown, where Extell's planned International Gem Tower was reportedly all systems go. The 32-story office condominium, designed by SOM to sport a diamond-like pattern on its facade, has yet to climb out of 47th Street, though the foundation has been complete for some time and all sorts of tax incentives are being dangled. Cuozzo reports that Extell needs commitments for 200,000 square feet of space to get bank financing to build the tower, and the company is currently a bit shy of that mark. But no matter, Extell now says they'll go vertical at the start of 2011 whether the banks are on board or not. How? By tapping into the same well of Middle East money that's getting Carnegie 57 built. Like the old saying goes, diamonds are a wealthy foreign nation's best friend.
· Reality Check [NYP, second item]
· International Gem Tower coverage [Curbed]

NY Post (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/realestate/commercial/diamond_tower_war_brewing_p7tMkTeqMt0R1AaB3i1p4N?CMP=OTC-rss&FEEDNAME=)



Diamond tower war brewing

Last Updated: 1:54 AM, November 23, 2010
Steve Cuozzo

REALTY CHECK
Most every week, there's "news" about Extell's International Gem Tower on West 47th Street.

Most recently, the project has been approved as a Foreign Trade Zone by the US Dept. of Commerce, which will allow companies based there to enjoy deferred, reduced or eliminated customs duty on imported goods.

But the news many architectural buffs really want -- that the crystalline, 34-story tower is soaring skyward -- is on hold until hopefully soon after Jan. 1, when Extell says it will "go vertical."

Meanwhile, an address with a much lower media profile, 580 Fifth Ave. at the 47th Street corner, persists in its belief that it's the center of the global diamond trade.

It might seem like a mismatch: a 1920s-vintage rental property owned by a local partnership, versus powerful Extell's ultra-sophisticated 47th Street tower between Fifth and Sixth avenues that's being marketed as condos.

But 580 Fifth's 400,000 square feet are 95 percent leased, while the Gem Tower's 750,000 square feet remain frozen at sidewalk level. In its condo filing with the state attorney general in January 2009, Extell said its tower would be "substantially complete" by October 2010.

And 580 Fifth, also 34 stories tall, carries the trademarked name World Diamond Tower. "Anywhere in the world, if you're in the industry, you just say '580' -- they know it's the diamond tower," said Ken Kahn, a part-owner who is also one of the building's executive managers.

Tenants include the Diamond Club trading bourse and prominent dealer Julius Klein. Asking rents are "in the $50s a square foot," said Kahn, who adds with a chuckle, "I can't tell you that's what you sign leases for."

Kahn's sense of humor comes in handy. Some of his major tenants have signed contracts with Extell chief Gary Barnett to move to the Gem Tower. Among them: the Gemological Institute of America, which has a contract to buy a full floor. "Six of their buyers with letters of intent are from our building," Kahn acknowledged. What happens when the Gem Tower finally opens? He shook his head. "We'll just have to re-rent," he said confidently.

His building is unlike most others in the district.

Neither weather-beaten outside nor run-down inside, its $50 million in recent capital improvements include new elevators, new floors of Brazilian marble, and, next year, a marquee entrance. Its retail space is fully leased. It makes no claim to matching the Gem Tower's 21st Century allure. But Kahn said the "virtual diamond city" of 580 Fifth is ideal for his tenants.

Diamond buyers, stone cutters, wholesalers, security firms and shippers all rely on one another's services -- "everything from receiving rough stones out of the mines to manufacturing jewelry that will be sold to Tiffany," he said. A basement vault is guarded by a 22-ton door. Kahn boasts a close relationship with tenants -- such as creating a central diamond- cutting shop for use by the whole build ing.

Kahn not surprisingly is skeptical about the Gem Tower's promise of luring diamond companies from all over the world, which was partly the basis for tax abatements the project received (and which Kahn opposed in city hearings). "Gary's application to the city was based on adding thousands of jobs. It's not going to happen," he predicted. "They're not bringing jobs in from China and India."

In fact, Extell's commitments for nearly 200,000 square feet include a few foreign firms, including two from India. It's going to be an interesting year ahead on the diamond block.

http://www.ynetnews.com/PicServer2/02022009/2213089/m_wa.jpg

OLD & NEW: The current World Diamond Tower at 580 Fifth Ave., which was built in the 1920s, spent $50 million on capital improvements as it waits for Extell’s International Gem Tower (above) to open.

This is a nice building it's really gonna stand out.

Excited to see the finished product.

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/2360/37895201.jpg



Looks great :yes:

nice tower! :cheers:

This tower has been on hold for a while now. Hopefully they'll start again in march '11.

Here's an article:

http://www.diamondintelligence.com/magazine/magazine.aspx?id=9207

Gem Tower Is Going Up:

MIDTOWN—Extell has said that it plans to start serious construction on its International Gem Tower in the Diamond District shortly, and today the developer sent out more details about the timeline for the 34-story tower. A "substantial portion" will be completed in 2011, and the entire commercial condo tower will be finished in 2012. The 11,000 tons of structural steel is being fabricated in West Virginia.

Curbed http://curbed.com/

^^
YEEEE fucking HAAAAAA!!!!
Really looking forward to this one :cheers:

I'm dying to see this one start. And I'm only into highrises be building Brooklyn.

the cladding is nice, but again a BOX meh.

http://blogs.wsj.com/metropolis/2011/04/07/diamond-district-tower-begins-its-rise/

U/C!!

U/C confirmed

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5189/5624783277_605d51a92c_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5230/5625372420_11ef1888eb_b.jpg

I was about to ask what's goin' on with GEM and then I came here and saw it's U/C...Great..

I believe we can see it by our own eyes soon. I'm looking forward to seeing it.:lol:

Very stylish, I really like its setting too.

Ha, passed this one today, didn't know that it was this tower going up. Lot of noise coming out of the construction site.

I see this place has to be updated..

May 9th, RoldanTTLB, WNY..

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3266/5705165467_26f2411aa6_z.jpg

May 7th..Bottom of the pic..

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3394/5708042601_2268d167a0_b.jpg
Top Of The Rock (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sw0rdf1sh/5708042601/in/set-72157626560770851/) by swordfish | 2010 (http://www.flickr.com/people/sw0rdf1sh/) on Flickr

May 12th, uakoops, WNY..

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/3046/imag0184k.jpg

http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/3484/imag0190u.jpg

http://img862.imageshack.us/img862/7730/imag0189r.jpg

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/9435/imag0188d.jpg

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/3462/imag0187r.jpg

http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/484/imag0186j.jpg

May 23rd, RoldanTTLB, WNY..

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5227/5753717142_e1c49dfb8b_z.jpg

Cheers dino for the updates :) Nice to see this one still progressing :)

Cheers dino for the updates :) Nice to see this one still progressing :)

:cheers:

May 23rd..Bottom of the pic..

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2578/5751237499_dcea95ca62_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2578/5751237499_a3ac248134_o.jpg
NYC down town.. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/23467486@N07/5751237499/) by muddii (http://www.flickr.com/people/23467486@N07/) on Flickr..

This will be such a gorgeous building

Thanks for keeping us updated on this, Dino!

Gem Tower on its way!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2414/5809730714_3aeb1f2dd5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/5809730714/)
110607461 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/5809730714/) by curbed (http://www.flickr.com/people/curbed/), on Flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2467/5809730584_354cd99a4f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/5809730584/)
110607462 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/5809730584/) by curbed (http://www.flickr.com/people/curbed/), on Flickr

this will look just like a gemstone in middle of new yoek city.

June 8th, Derek2k3, WNY..

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5073/5812075933_3805eed250_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3502/5812075941_830f99f638_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5153/5812075935_8fe504c3dc_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5184/5812075927_00fe7702bc_b.jpg

dang; this tower is slow

July 3rd..

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6054/5897578414_8d689ffc9e_b.jpg
top of the rock (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gflash5000/5897578414/) by gflash5000 (http://www.flickr.com/people/gflash5000/) on Flickr

June 27th..Click for Large..

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5277/5908121734_3b6f294f21_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curiousbk/5908121734/sizes/o/in/photostream/)
IMG_0458edited (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curiousbk/5908121734/) by curiousbk (http://www.flickr.com/people/curiousbk/) on Flickr

June 30th..

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6015/5910636048_dd3f5d2e2b_b.jpg
New York from the "Top of the Rock" (http://www.flickr.com/photos/deathender/5910636048/) by Arthur Kantemirov (http://www.flickr.com/people/deathender/) on Flickr

July 5th..

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6029/5922173155_da219684fa_b.jpg
Top of the Rock midtown view 1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/john00taylor/5922173155/) by john.00.taylor (http://www.flickr.com/photos/john00taylor/) on Flickr

July 9th..

http://www.flickr.com/photos/philsnoopy/5936705502/sizes/l/in/photostream/

August 16th, RoldanTTLB, WNY..

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6184/6051031963_afabe38564_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6085/6051585698_119aa426b2_b.jpg

nycdagreatest, Skyscraperpage..

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6087/6148715106_2f679e6f3f_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6072/6148168247_41ce2f61e6_b.jpg

If it weren't for Dino, we wouldn't know that this thing is already in the sky! Thanks for the update Dino!

Will this tower be taller than its neighbor? I can't seem to find any renders that include its neighbor to the southwest.

:cheers:

http://www.eb5extell.com/wp-content/gallery/renderings/exterior-47th-street-hero-day.jpg
http://www.eb5extell.com/wp-content/gallery/renderings/exterior-47th-street-hero-day.jpg

If you mean on that black boxy building, 1166 Avenue of the Americas, it's 600 ft..Gem tower is 590 ft..This is how will things look like:

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/8465/17066652.jpg

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/4642/83220751.jpg

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/3668/17040421.jpg

Oh ok, yes that's the one I meant. So they will be very close then.. only this one will look twice as good. :cheers:

delete

looking good :cheers:

It's nice but I'm not sure I love it.

September 30th, Derek2k3, WNY..

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6152/6198355026_a3c734b7f0_b.jpg

I was waiting for updates. Thank you!

But this building is slow to grow...

anyone know who the erector/fabricator is?

anyone know who the erector/fabricator is?

do you mean construction company?

Tishman..The same company that works on WTC..

do you mean construction company?

no i mean the fabricator/erector of the steel.

the subcontractor.

i just looked back through the pages. if the crane is any indication, its DCM. seems like small potatoes for them though.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6023/6207586458_3d69a98352_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ahellmann/6207586458/)
New York Oktober 2011 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ahellmann/6207586458/) by ahellmann (http://www.flickr.com/people/ahellmann/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6153/6207104753_dea7503e5b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ahellmann/6207104753/)
New York Oktober 2011 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ahellmann/6207104753/) by ahellmann (http://www.flickr.com/people/ahellmann/), on Flickr

i just looked back through the pages. if the crane is any indication, its DCM. seems like small potatoes for them though.

Developer is Extell, architects are SOM and construction is being done by Tishman Construction..

OT: Is the area between Bryant Park and 49th, and 5th avenue and 6th landmarked to a degree? It would be a disaster, if they raze buildings there, to make way for tower, since the area is beautiful.

Luckily it won't block the view from Rockefeller center. :)

OT: Is the area between Bryant Park and 49th, and 5th avenue and 6th landmarked to a degree? It would be a disaster, if they raze buildings there, to make way for tower, since the area is beautiful.

I don't think there are any landmarked neighborhoods, or full blocks anywhere in Midtown since it's zoned generally for huge office buildings, but I'm 100% certain that there are individual buildings that are landmarked in that area. I'd love to answer your question more extensively but there are literally thousands of individually landmarked buildings just the lower third of Manhattan.

Back to the building! Love the updates and if the facade is a good quality, this could be a truly spectacular filler. Only in Midtown is 590 footer a filler, gotta love it!

October 6th, Snackbar21, WNY..

http://wirednewyork.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=14181&d=1317935778

I think this tower will be prominent, not because it's height, but because the nice cladding.:)

Snackbar21, WNY..

The cladding is here!!

http://wirednewyork.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=14251&d=1318427713

October 18th, RoldanTTLB, WNY..

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6156/6256476910_d33491e722_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6168/6256475318_bdd4182c8e_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6221/6255942961_d416a93791_b.jpg

Another 3B building:
Boxy,boring and bland.
Oh and btw that seems to be a nice neighborhood,I mean because of the rowhouses.

That's a perfect description of this non-entity.

New York was noted for it's wonderful unique skyscrapers at one time, now it;s getting filled with the same old blandness found in just about any city on earth. (There are a few exceptions, fortunately)

That's a perfect description of this non-entity.

New York was noted for it's wonderful unique skyscrapers at one time, now it;s getting filled with the same old blandness found in just about any city on earth. (There are a few exceptions, fortunately)

boring?

you find this building boring?

and what do you think about the facade?

trust me, new york has great architecture

Why does every single building have to be fancy and original. Sometimes you just need buildings that blend in the skyline perfectly and which are just functional.

If all buildings would scream for attention none will stand out. This one just accepts it's place in the city in a nice and modest fashion.

This one of my favorite highrises.

very nice

well this building does stand out well the cladding is cool.

Why does every single building have to be fancy and original. Sometimes you just need buildings that blend in the skyline perfectly and which are just functional.

If all buildings would scream for attention none will stand out. This one just accepts it's place in the city in a nice and modest fashion.

Excellent points! I agree with you both!

Maybe it is something that comes with age - and I am much older than most of people who post here - but one learns to appreciate simplicity and understatement. Not every highrise building has to be unique and striking. If it is well built and compliments the streetscape, it has accomplished it's purpose.

This one of my favorite highrises.

No offense, but this is funny considering your post on the first page of this thread. ;)

great building

No offense, but this is funny considering your post on the first page of this thread. ;)

Yeah I hate short buildings but I happen to like this one.

Gulcrapek, WNY..

http://i.imgur.com/FOKCd.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/1bsML.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/UOHPB.jpg

November 12th, 2011

http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee429/dkny622/IMG_0781.jpg
http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee429/dkny622/IMG_0780.jpg
http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee429/dkny622/IMG_0786.jpg

Not quite the curtainwall envisioned in the renderings.

^^ Thats just the podium ;) The glass on the rest of the building will be different :)

You can see this glass on the podium in this render :)

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z70/Scruffy66/saya/renders/dia2.jpg
:cheers:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6060/6347795381_eb723450e5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/6347795381/)
111113406 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/6347795381/) by curbed (http://www.flickr.com/people/curbed/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6058/6348545552_1fc9ac37eb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/6348545552/)
111113405 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/6348545552/) by curbed (http://www.flickr.com/people/curbed/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6098/6348545436_048f25f8d1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/6348545436/)
111113404 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/curbed/6348545436/) by curbed (http://www.flickr.com/people/curbed/), on Flickr

wow..

I hope that the cladding is going to be just as special as the Hearst tower, I like both claddings.

The podium's cladding looks outstanding! :eek:

I LIKE! The cladding makes use of its simple shape and makes it interesting. :) Shame about the name though :ohno:

Not quite the curtainwall envisioned in the renderings.

The base looks the same in the render.

Heeey... Watch him grow!

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6092/6373657231_a76bc2cbc7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitaldeviant/6373657231/)
New York (http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitaldeviant/6373657231/) por Nieuwenhuis Fotografie (http://www.flickr.com/people/digitaldeviant/), no Flickr

^^
any chance you could point it out? :lol:

Nice cladding for the podium. This tower will be one of those understated ones that remain beautiful with time. Those ultra-modern and twisting towers will look dated some years from now.

^^
any chance you could point it out? :lol:

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6092/6373657231_a76bc2cbc7_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitaldeviant/6373657231/)
New York (http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitaldeviant/6373657231/) por Nieuwenhuis Fotografie (http://www.flickr.com/people/digitaldeviant/), no Flickr ^^

Haha .. Sorry. Its location is very easy, is the only building under construction and at the bottom of the photo, with the lights on...

nice building, i love it
it looks modern and with a very interesting arquitecture

[/URL]
[URL="http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitaldeviant/6373657231/"]New York (http://www.flickr.com/photos/digitaldeviant/6373657231/) por Nieuwenhuis Fotografie (http://www.flickr.com/people/digitaldeviant/), no Flickr ^^

Haha .. Sorry. Its location is very easy, is the only building under construction and at the bottom of the photo, with the lights on...

I see it now haha, cheers

Danielson27
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6415700859_161c6174ee_b.jpg

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6236/6415691103_4a7c8d4b9f_b.jpg

The photos on Extell's website show how these wavy pieces will create the "diamond" look of the facade.

http://www.internationalgemtower.com/content/#/Project Gallery/Renderings?mode=default

Well that looks promising :)

It does indeed. It's going to look like a real gem :)

^^This guys ruined my planned comments as I was scrolling down the pictures :lol:

Danielson27
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6415700859_161c6174ee_b.jpg

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6236/6415691103_4a7c8d4b9f_b.jpg



The photos on Extell's website show how these wavy pieces will create the "diamond" look of the facade.


http://www.internationalgemtower.com/content/#/Project Gallery/Renderings?mode=default

They have added some new images on their site.
http://www.internationalgemtower.com/content/#/Project%20Gallery/Construction%20Photos/Winter%202011?mode=default

Snackbar21
http://wirednewyork.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=14547&d=1324057251

Man, why can't people take good pictures of the progress here? :(

This is definitely one of the most exciting buildings going up in the city.

Taken by me on the 21st--

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/7033/gem4.jpg

Full update:

http://newyorkyimby.blogspot.com/2011/12/construction-update-midtown-west.html

This is from the 27th.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7030/6586403855_c2a92d2140.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6590350219_b0f07b6dd1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nickkeating/6590350219/)
Top of the Rock (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nickkeating/6590350219/) by Nick Keating (http://www.flickr.com/people/nickkeating/), on Flickr

^^ Dramatic color effect... :eek: ...as if it was already 20.12.2012. ;)

Anyway, there'll be enough time to complete the structure of this tower til then.
And the facade will turn out nicelly, especially with this 3d-weave pattern above the podium.

01/01/2012 by denkmanttlb on flickr:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6615886949_7da7682dd4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7799907@N05/6615886949/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6616348715_ba65951195_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7799907@N05/6616348715/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6616357169_a4d339111d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7799907@N05/6616357169/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6616358163_af62fd2278_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7799907@N05/6616358163/)

Wow, what a cladding!

My word! this is beautiful.

Nice glass. This tower should be taller though. :)

Wow, this is my first time to see this project. I must say the cladding itself got me so excited for this project. What a gem! Wished it could have been a bit more taller 'cause this needs to be seen

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6638211529_932757e96c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nratushnova/6638211529/)
Top of the Rock (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nratushnova/6638211529/) por nratushnova (http://www.flickr.com/people/nratushnova/), no Flickr

I am absolutely loving that cladding!!! :D "it will look great when completed"

the erector was thrown off this job today.

I would expect a halt to work starting soon and lasting at least a few weeks.

January 6th, 2012

(Taken from Top of the Rock)

http://i800.photobucket.com/albums/yy281/DKNY621/IMG_1279.jpg

cool pic

Sad that this tower don't stand on a more seen place.

Though from the GE building you have a magnifficent view onto this, but for panorama's it has to be taller.

nice cladding

the erector was thrown off this job today.

I would expect a halt to work starting soon and lasting at least a few weeks.

What happened?

That's a nice building! I hope it will turn out like the render.

What happened?

lots of rumors floating around at this point but i have heard them from several different sources.

apparently DCM is in dire straits stemming from work at 1wtc and 4wtc.

i know for certain that they have been disqualified as an eligible erector from a couple new projects because of it.

with regard to gem. they were kicked off and Cornell has been contracted to complete the tower.

with regard to DCM as a whole, there is word that they have laid off nearly their entire fabrication shop because the mills will not fill any more orders.:

i also understand that they are desperately behind on their union benefits payements.

im not sure how this will affect downtown due to the political implications of a major work slowdown/shutdown at wtc, but its a big problem....

Update from today. Pictures by me.

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/1627/1327085997185.jpg


Sorry for the sideways shot. My photo editor is being a pain.
http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/2287/1327086045739.jpg

Looks good, especially with the sun on it.

Wow. This building is going to be a stunner man. Thanks for the photos.

22 Jan - sneaking a view from Rockefeller Plaza

http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/5024/img2012012200182.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6778345201_a4ff998abb_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jasonpiercephotography/6778345201/)
Midtown Manhattan sunset through-the-window vertical pano (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jasonpiercephotography/6778345201/) by Jason Pierce Photography (roof-bound!) (http://www.flickr.com/people/jasonpiercephotography/) on Flickr

Forgotten Gem..Still growing in silence..

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7060/6891201041_b34b249a82_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/srapix/6891201041/)
Top of the Rock in the Big Apple (http://www.flickr.com/photos/srapix/6891201041/) by SRApix (http://www.flickr.com/people/srapix/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7037/6903385903_37082d81d9_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25744165@N03/6903385903/)
Top of the Rock (http://www.flickr.com/photos/25744165@N03/6903385903/) by timnatl (http://www.flickr.com/people/25744165@N03/), on Flickr

cladding?

:ohno:

about 130m now?

This tower desperately needs more attention from construction photographists.

I'll try to get down there to get some pics. Went by it 2 weeks ago but didn't get pics but I'll try to get some over the weekend.

^^ Thank you, my friend :)...we would love to see more pics. :)

I really like this this building especially the design!! ;D

Can anyone tell me what's being built on 45street, between 7th and 6th, next to Room Mate Grace Hotel New?

Can anyone tell me what's being built on 45street, between 7th and 6th, next to Room Mate Grace Hotel New?

Probably 131 W 45th St. A decent 550 footer. Link (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=128135), can't find a thread on SSC.

Probably 131 W 45th St. A decent 550 footer. Link (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=128135), can't find a thread on SSC.

NICE...lets hope so, thx :banana:

http://therealdeal.com/issues_articles/the-bling-building/

The bling building: A review of the Gem Tower
A jazzy surface — but not architectural form — will distinguish the International Gem Tower
March 01, 2012
By James Gardner

"...Into this mix now comes the International Gem Tower, a 34-story colossus designed by Skidmore Owings and Merrill that has just topped out, and is scheduled to be completed by the end of this year..."

^^ Yeah, it's T/O. And btw the final is 460ft, according to CTBUH: http://www.skyscrapercenter.com/building.php?building_id=9212

Figures
Height: Architectural 140.2 meter / 460 feet
Height: To Tip 140.2 meter / 460 feet
Floors Above Ground 34
Tower GFA 65,032 m² / 699,999 ft²

Such a fine tower will be hidden in the concrete jungle... *sigh*.

March 4th, 2012

http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t263/DKNY617/IMG_1614.jpg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t263/DKNY617/IMG_1615.jpg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t263/DKNY617/IMG_1616.jpg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t263/DKNY617/IMG_1617.jpg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t263/DKNY617/IMG_1618.jpg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t263/DKNY617/IMG_1619.jpg
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t263/DKNY617/IMG_1620.jpg

I love this cladding!!!

Extraordinary facade!!

March 08

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/1488/dscn918101.jpg

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/8471/dscn917701.jpg

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/674/dscn917801.jpg

http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/3860/dscn918001.jpg

Very good. This glass is amazing ... Thanks for sharing.

I'm really loving the look of this facade!

The tower is T/O. Height has been reduced: International Gem Tower (http://www.skyscrapercenter.com/building.php?building_id=9212)

Figures
Height: Architectural 140.2 meter / 460 feet
Height: To Tip 140.2 meter / 460 feet
Floors Above Ground 34

^^ What was the original height again? Can't find it....

You have to be kidding me..That's it???

^^ 180m. Such a tragedy, a beautiful cladding like this deserves to be seen and not hidden in the the concrete jungle... :ohno:
Btw just count the floors (see latest pics posted) und you'll see that the tower won't grow anymore. :(

Well that's shit! :ohno:

Hmmm shame :( 140m makes it look a bit fat, proportions are off...

Still liking the facade though.

The shame is that tower like this would be in lot of cities almost landmark with this awesome cladding, but in Manhattan concrete jungle will be almost invisible with its height....

A missed opportunity..

It kind of suits it's name though, it will be one of those little "gems" that people find when travelling around new york... :)

a hidden gem. :|

Any progress?

From April:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7050/7099591253_13ff3b0408_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wallyg/7099591253/)
NYC - Midtown: International Gem Tower and GE Building (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wallyg/7099591253/) by wallyg (http://www.flickr.com/people/wallyg/), on Flickr

May 21

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7216/7245791008_4508786c24_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/57283880@N03/7245791008/)
Top Of The Rock (http://www.flickr.com/photos/57283880@N03/7245791008/) by Eric.D.Fleury (http://www.flickr.com/people/57283880@N03/), on Flickr

Sky looks awesome in that pic.

Very nice design tower! http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y217/mr-fish/Miscellaneous/BigSmile.gif

I dont think the tower it's self looks nice, just the facade that is awesome.

MAY 23

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7214/7289695612_a3ff123743_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/63780838@N04/7289695612/)
IMG_0591.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/63780838@N04/7289695612/) por wearedave (http://www.flickr.com/people/63780838@N04/), no Flickr

SSP lists this at 590 feet, that looks more correct.

EDIT: It got reduced, shit that sucks...

I like it better that it's been reduced, now the word 'gem' has more meaning to it!

SSP lists this at 590 feet, that looks more correct.

EDIT: It got reduced, shit that sucks...

It really should have been twice that number.

are we sure it got reduced? compared to the surrounding buildings it looks to be about 590

^^ Well it only has 34L instead of what is was supposed to have, so yeah it has been reduced. :)

are we sure it got reduced? compared to the surrounding buildings it looks to be about 590

Yes .. Originally this building was to have a height similar (although smaller, but still larger than it is now) to its neighbor of black glass.

It looks to be more than 460 feet in comparison to the surrounding buildings though, maybe that's just me.

The 1166 Avenue of the Americas is 600 foot and 44 floors (The building in front of the Gem Tower).

The 1166 Avenue of the Americas is 600 foot and 44 floors (The building in front of the Gem Tower).

The black one?

It really does not look 140 feet shorter than that. Maybe it's the angle.

The floors are very large so the building still maybe is 590 feet, it's not much shorter than the 600 foot black tower and the 630 WR grace building. It could be the angle though

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7214/7289695612_a3ff123743_b.jpg

Emporis and CTBUH both have this listed as 460. Having seen this in person, there's no way it's 590, just no way. It's the perspective of those photos that make it look comparable, height wise, to the Grace Building.

This building reminds me of clear lego blocks stacked on top of eachother.

Yeah, the claddding a bit.

Gem Tower progressing nicely:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7117/7440338354_ec7d1b6b4c_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36347533@N05/7440338354/)
new york city rockefeller center top of the rock observation deck skyline (http://www.flickr.com/photos/36347533@N05/7440338354/) by photographynatalia (http://www.flickr.com/people/36347533@N05/), on Flickr

Love that glass!

nice pattern

Photos from this weekend, from street level and Top of the Rock! Tower is looking wonderful. :)

International Gem Tower August 2012 Update (http://www.newyorkyimby.com/2012/08/construction-update-international-gem.html)

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sA0H_2qMQ0U/UDMjcMitnbI/AAAAAAAAE0w/6EPOCdiKUbU/s640/20120818_175338.jpg

Extell is close to construction on a new 21 story hotel across the street. But on to a great photo, thanks to Derek2k3 for finding this stunning shot on WNY.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8318/8063806677_3746c10103_h.jpg
erikgstewart (http://www.flickr.com/photos/erikgstewart/8063806677/sizes/h/in/pool-35034350743@N01/)

Old pic from 5 december,but the roof is visible.
http://i50.tinypic.com/m55kk.jpg
................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................^^Here it is.:D^^

I can't find it :(

denkmanttlb (http://www.flickr.com/photos/7799907@N05/8240026468/sizes/l/in/photostream/) on flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8489/8240026468_411bef7d59_b.jpg

I can't find it :(

It's pointed out.:)

well...it´s nice...

http://imageshack.us/a/img46/4853/manhattan2013020200770.jpg

http://imageshack.us/a/img521/708/manhattan20130202007714.jpg
metal detectors on 47th street side

http://imageshack.us/a/img855/3255/manhattan2013020200773f.jpg
as seen from 45th street

Looks much better once all the cladding was put on.
So... it's nearly completed! When I joined, it was halfway up. But I don't know if 250W55th street was even above ground when I started

http://blog.hotrentalsny.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/International-Gem-Tower-New-York.jpg
http://blog.hotrentalsny.com/2011/02/will-gary-barnett%E2%80%99s-diamond-gamble-pay-off/international-gem-tower-new-york/

:drool: That pic looks more like a render than a render itself.

^^ The above pic is a render.....

:drool: That pic looks more like a render than a render itself.

^^ The above pic is a render.....


:lol: :lol:

That render looks more like a pic than a pic itself :cheers:

^^ :nuts:

Awesome cladding on this one! It really saves it from being just another box.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8225/8493339999_5d9b0b5d72_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/92886975@N06/8493339999/) International Gem Tower (http://www.flickr.com/photos/92886975@N06/8493339999/) by towerpower123 (http://www.flickr.com/people/92886975@N06/), on Flickr

Well done. One of my favourites right now. :cool:

What was here before?

Well done. One of my favourites right now. :cool:

absolutely, that facade is just brilliant!

RegentHouse

Some unimportant lowrises I think.

Check out the Gem tower in this pic! Unreal!

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8245/8463676736_dc59f79db7_k.jpg
Anthony Quintano (http://www.flickr.com/photos/quintanomedia/8463434118/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

http://www.usis.us/attachment/DSCN1279.JPG
http://www.usis.us/en/eb-5-project/extell-project/investors-visit-igt-tower/53/1

I wish architects would put more thought into the aesthetics of the roofs of the tall buildings they design, especially in a city like New York, where there are many viewing angles pointing down towards the building. The roofs look rather unappealing in that second picture up.

April 6

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8541/8626400016_9d3b3dd929_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/27672048@N00/8626400016/)
IMG_7132 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/27672048@N00/8626400016/) by kz1000ps (http://www.flickr.com/people/27672048@N00/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8382/8626398330_f95884d7a3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/27672048@N00/8626398330/)
IMG_7139 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/27672048@N00/8626398330/) by kz1000ps (http://www.flickr.com/people/27672048@N00/), on Flickr

This first pic is great!

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8627559485_05d1a239bb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/salvan/8627559485/)
IMG_1335 NYC Windows Near Herald Square (http://www.flickr.com/photos/salvan/8627559485/) by Sally Van Natta (http://www.flickr.com/people/salvan/), on Flickr

A few pix from 4/27/2013...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7056/8688025801_e6e7931bab_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8688025801/)
International Gem (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8688025801/) by BrooklynFlyGuy (http://www.flickr.com/people/brooklynflyguy/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7052/8689144156_7ce478e150_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8689144156/)
International Gem (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8689144156/) by BrooklynFlyGuy (http://www.flickr.com/people/brooklynflyguy/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7052/8689144048_fe4b5706f7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8689144048/)
International Gem (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8689144048/) by BrooklynFlyGuy (http://www.flickr.com/people/brooklynflyguy/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7044/8688025353_6c8a338e96_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8688025353/)
International Gem (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8688025353/) by BrooklynFlyGuy (http://www.flickr.com/people/brooklynflyguy/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/8688025253_97f860102e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8688025253/)
International Gem (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8688025253/) by BrooklynFlyGuy (http://www.flickr.com/people/brooklynflyguy/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7056/8688025147_533f4ddb10_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8688025147/)
International Gem (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8688025147/) by BrooklynFlyGuy (http://www.flickr.com/people/brooklynflyguy/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7043/8689143472_6d975ef628_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8689143472/)
International Gem (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8689143472/) by BrooklynFlyGuy (http://www.flickr.com/people/brooklynflyguy/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7052/8689143120_c25d3cd9b7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8689143120/)
International Gem (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brooklynflyguy/8689143120/) by BrooklynFlyGuy (http://www.flickr.com/people/brooklynflyguy/), on Flickr

^^

Awesome shots!

Gem Tower shimmering above the schmutz of the Diamond District:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8034/8052100941_d06edf045a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/duncanchaboudy/8052100941/)
Buildings in Manhattan (http://www.flickr.com/photos/duncanchaboudy/8052100941/) by Duncan Chaboudy (http://www.flickr.com/people/duncanchaboudy/), on Flickr

The buildings on 47th St are really beautiful. They need to be cleaned, but they're quite nice.

I think that cladding is fantastic!!! :D

The buildings on 47th St are really beautiful. They need to be cleaned, but they're quite nice.

They are. I also like the huge contrast with the modern towers, like the International Gem. :)

I love the glass!

I love the glass!

Indeed, it's a pity the tower isn't twice as tall :)

Here's my model of this tower: :)

http://img801.imageshack.us/img801/2062/img0250vj.jpg

If you want to see more pics:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1529009&page=9