If you were listening what is going on in the world of architecture lately, you’ve probably heard about 56 Leonard Street skyscraper. It finally went under construction after long long time being on hold. Take a look what is so special about this New York skyscraper and why are people so excited about it.

When I talk with people about 56 Leonard Street, I get pretty much clear and straightforward feelings and reactions. People either like it a lot, or don’t like it at all. It’s really about personal taste in architecture. Me? I love it. It’s one unique, interesting and definitely unusual skyscraper. It’s Jenga-like shape is something we don’t see every day.

Now, let’s see some stats here. 56 Leonard Street is designed by the Herzog and de Meuron Architects. It is located in famous Tribeca neighborhood, known for being home to numerous celebrities and multimillionaires. (cough…prices…cough). The area is full of lowrise townhouses which is good for developers since views of Lower Manhattan and Midtown will be mind blowing (read: khaching! $$$). As I said earlier, 56 Leonard Street went under construction last year after long time being on hold because of financial crisis. It will be 250 m (821 ft) tall with 57 floors. Apartments and condo units are already out, looking for its owners. You can see full list of apartments, features, floor plans and prices here. In case you get one of these, don’t be a stranger, I would love to drink a cup of coffee. 😉

It is obvious, life in 56 Leonard Street will be quite luxurious which is confirmed in their official description: “Interior details at 56 Leonard are both discrete and sculptural—a range of subtly balanced finishes enhances and harmonizes the flow of spaces. The building’s exposed concrete is complemented by a basic palette of champagne window-walls, satin-etched glass, natural solid woods, travertine, Thassos marble, polished metals, black granite, high-gloss black lacquer accents and finished concrete columns that architecturally enhance each living space.” – Official website

The Crown of 56 Leonard will be composed of ten glass houses in the sky. “56 Leonard’s Ten Unique Penthouses encompass a wealth of special features: east-to-west skyline galleries to maximize views, spacious cedar-lined closets, wood-burning fireplaces, grand entry galleries and exercise rooms.”

Now that you know about this luxury architectural masterpiece, tell me, what is your opinion? Do you like it? What do you think about this unique design? Would you rather live in 56 Leonard Street, 432 Park Avenue or this outstanding penthouse apartment?

You can follow current construction progress and find more info over at New York YIMBY, our source for architecture from New York City.

All photos © Tronic / Alexico Group

56 Leonard Street

Upper floors and views

Street level of 56 Leonard Street

Street level facade and sculpture at 56 Leonard Street

Manhattan sunset and 56 Leonard Street

World Trade Center complex and 56 Leonard Street

56 Leonard Street balconies and terraces

56 Leonard Street penthouse apartment

56 Leonard Street penthouse kitchen

56 Leonard Street condo interior

Indoor swimming pool

Living room Manhattan view

Bathroom with the view

56 Leonard Street facade

View from the penthouse

56 Leonard Street at night

Penthouses on top of 56 Leonard Street skyscraper

Penthouse floor plan

56 Leonard Street and Manhattan skyline at night