New York City, NY

Client   Lincoln Center
Type   Cultural, Performing Arts
Status   Design Competition Finalist 2015

Lincoln Center – David Geffen Hall

After a search that included more than 100 architects world-wide, Revery was selected as one of four finalists for the Lincoln Center’s design competition for David Geffen Hall.

Since the square footage of the existing structure was insufficient for the expanded program, the building had to grow in some direction. Given the confines of the surrounding plazas and streets in New York City, we chose to increase the height of the building. To reduce the visual impact, we sculpted the new floors and set them back from the three most public faces of the building. The expression and massing were designed to make the new structure appear to float above the old, providing a new iconic presence without overpowering the historic campus.

Respecting the historic colonnade of slender travertine-clad columns, Revery’s design extends the glazing to street level, lighting and energizing the surrounding public areas. Starting at the historic Promenade level, with its iconic balcony overlooking Josie Robertson Plaza, the lobbies for the concert hall are arranged along the most public faces of the building.

Forming a new skyline and silhouette for the building, the upper roof level provides a compelling location for pre-function and banquet events. Rising through the building to these spaces via curved escalators provides an efficient, unique, and dynamic experience unmatched in the city, and offers panoramic views of the New York City skyline, capped by a sweeping roof punctured by skylights.