AN ICON AMONG ICONS, Part 2

The geothermal-based heating and cooling systems control the temperature inside the booth. They also provide radiant heating to melt snow on the steps in the winter and cool the LEDs in the summer. The mechanical equipment is visible through the glass walls.

Thanks to William Fellows’ powerful and deceptively simple plaza design, the booth and steps provide a backdrop for visitors to appreciate the Father Duffy monument, which is now fully accessible to the public after years of partial concealment behind wrought iron fencing. The inscriptions on the back of the monument are visible not only from the ground, but from various vantage points on the steps.

The new shining red steps reflect the dynamism of Times Square.

Photo: Emile Wamsteker

The new plaza – doubling usable pedestrian space – enables visitors to experience the entire Bowtie on a grand scale. The square has been swept free of clutter, and is now comprised of approximately 3,800 granite pavers, creating a plane that stretches the scale of the island and provides an elegant canvas for the glowing staircase.

The steps are supported by structural glass beams.

Photo: Emile Wamsteker

The plaza creates a dramatic environment for the Father Duffy monument, allowing the illuminated steps to ignite the square and provide theatrical up-lighting on this urban stage in a manner befitting the Crossroads of the World.

- Click here to view a diagram of additional design details -

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