NEW YORK | One World Trade Center | 1,776' Pinnacle / 1,373' Roof | 108 FLOORS

[mheadroom]

I want you all to take a look at nearly every antenna that has been made. Tell me that, in real life, and not on a computer, that it is invisible. I want someone to find one example of an invisible antenna. Seriously, its not that bad!

Nearly invisible.

No one has claimed the antenna is invisible.

Further, the concern is that the building was designed to be balanced by a sculptural spire that brought the building to a specific height. Instead, by removing the radome you're left with this absurdly tall and thin antenna that was never designed to compliment the tower.

If the radome can't work then figure something else out. Settling for the exposed antenna is not the answer. This building deserves a designed solution. I wish someone in a position of power had the courage to demand one.

[NYC]

http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/148210_472236322815808_849707456_n.jpg?dl=1

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YPCf8JFgUdI/Sgoxqg64HSI/AAAAAAAALTw/SbhKImZwWOU/s576/twintowers.JPG

These two remind me of each other.

[NewYorkDominates]

^ Amazing.

The antenna issue is long past me to be honest,but one thing I wouldn't like to happen is to count it as a spire.As much as I love 1WTC,it just wouldn't be fair to other buildings with antennas.

[Jonboy1983]

I want you all to take a look at nearly every antenna that has been made. Tell me that, in real life, and not on a computer, that it is invisible. I want someone to find one example of an invisible antenna. Seriously, its not that bad!

How about the Cathedral of Learning? Believe it or not, THAT has an antennae. If you look really closely at it, you will notice it. :)

I never really noticed it until a few years back...

Still, not that it bothers me or anything, but I wonder if David Childs will call his lawyers if the CTBUH does not include the antenna/spire height. It cost $10 billion to build, and cheapskate Durst wants to shave $20 million (pocket change to you and me) on something rather important to the project. I still think Durst is an asshole tho...

[Chapelo]

I think that pic of the Twins is from Fringe :cheers:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8207/8256237808_158b1efb84_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/soulico/8256237808/)
New World Trade Center Building in fog (http://www.flickr.com/photos/soulico/8256237808/) by dsorine (http://www.flickr.com/people/soulico/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8062/8255164553_78e933a045_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/soulico/8255164553/)
New World Trade Center building in fog (http://www.flickr.com/photos/soulico/8255164553/) by dsorine (http://www.flickr.com/people/soulico/), on Flickr

[bigreach]

I just can't get over the extremley accurate quote that is responsible coming from aquaquote: "The historians will say "what the F@#% were they thinking?),, but seriously what the hell is those modern day men thinking??? This beautiful building, then put this "crap" on top to save fractions of what this buildingis worth and has cost..

[599GTO]

. Difference of opinion. I learned to accept the antenna. Don't like my acceptance, TOUGH !

It's a fact, not an opinion, that this antenna is a shitty afterthought. It wasn't designed for aesthetics, it's not a spire, it's the horrendous under-skin of a beautiful architectural mast that was supposed to crown this building but was scrapped because the developer is a piggy greedy fucker. It's ugly and there are no ifs, ands, or buts about it.

I live in New York, I love New York, I see this building every day from my window, but I'll be pissed if CTBUH doesn't demote this building to it's proper height. 1,373 ft. It's NOT 1,776. I'm sure that bastard Durst will try to bully them into the whole "1,776" thing but rules should not be bent just because it's the World Trade Center. That, of course, could always change -- Durst will be gone sometime hopefully soon and maybe someone with a greater sense of taste and civic pride will cover that damn thing that is being put on the roof of this otherwise handsome building!

[nycaddict]

not saying it even remotely likely, but would it be possible to cover the antenna after its all completed? again, dont think its gonna happen but it would be nice to have some hope..

[NYguy]

It's atrocious. It isn't architecture, it is something you'd find on an antenna anywhere. An ugly industrial piece of steel. That looks industrial and ugly. A cover was needed.

I agree, but as an antenna, it would be acceptable. It's still ugly, and not worthy of the building though. And shame on Durst and the Port Authority.


That has nothing to do with it! This building deserved a proper spire...

It didn't just DESERVE a spire. What most here have forgotten, or apparently have never known is that the entire site plan revolved around this "spire", the most significant part of the site plan, and the only part they were willing to force regardless on the developer.



I highly doubt the majority of New Yorker's really care what the spire looks like.

The majority of New Yorkers dount really care about a lot of things. That doesn't mean those things aren't important. We know that most people don't care about skyscrapers.



Durst was just so confident CTBUH would count the antenna in the architectural height that I just thought he knew something we didn't.

Durst doesn't really care one way or the other. It's a business, and the antenna will be central to their broadcasting plans, with the Conde Nast antenna serving as a backup. The Port Authority doesn't really care either, because as they both point out, whether the height is officially a part of the building or not, they will reach it. That's assuming they can get a grasp of the 5 ft difference between the north and south sides of the tower, from which official measurements will be determined. That's something that is never discussed, and probably won't be until the tower is complete.


See guys, when you actually see it in a higher quality, this thing looks amazing.

Yeah, its amazing how much they've managed to cheapen this building down in detail, yet it remains the most expensive.



I want you all to take a look at nearly every antenna that has been made. Tell me that, in real life, and not on a computer, that it is invisible. I want someone to find one example of an invisible antenna. Seriously, its not that bad!

This is one case where it would be better if it were invisible.



IntoTheLens827 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/intothelens827/8257943524/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8058/8257943524_d65e181589_b.jpg



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[rack776]

In the photos of the "spiretenna" sections they look to be galvanized steel, which in a few years will most likely start to show rust streaks in a few more years it might look like the rusty brown renderings we saw before.

If they dont paint it and the mast starts to rust won't they have to paint it in the future to prevent corrosion from weakening the structure?
......I thought the mast was supposed to be "maintence free" due to safety concerns.

Some of the large traffic signs in our area are made of galvanized steel trusses and they look terrible, grey with streaky brown spots all over them.

If they do plan on painting it white would'nt they have had to do it before erecting the sections in place?

How is all the broadcasting equipment going to be installed "safely"?

How will windloads in a Sandy like storm affect the open frame spire, compaired to the enclosed streamlined original spire design?

I could live with the open skeleton frame work if it was properly finished in a pleasing color like white or silver and it was a uniform or tapered width, I think the part that bugs me most is that it is "fatter" at the top than the middle, Looks like a giant...well you know.

If they had beefed up the middle sections to be a uniform "spire" the cable stay mounting rings would be less visable.

Since the PA pulled some crap and the fabricator had to fight to get paid I guess any hope of non structural aestehic changes to the spire went out the window after the cancelation of the radome. Durst would have fought the cost of the redesign any way.:(

Man this project could have been Americas finest comeback and instead it is a showcase for everything that is wrong with our country... Pollitical & Corporate BullS#$% & Corruption.

Shame on anyone who had a hand in slowing down the rebirth of NYC, it is painfull enough to watch this entire project be compromised but even more so in slow motion.

-Thanks for letting me rant, Jason

[NYC GUY]

It's a fact, not an opinion, that this antenna is a shitty afterthought. It wasn't designed for aesthetics, it's not a spire, it's the horrendous under-skin of a beautiful architectural mast that was supposed to crown this building but was scrapped because the developer is a piggy greedy fucker. It's ugly and there are no ifs, ands, or buts about it.

I live in New York, I love New York, I see this building every day from my window, but I'll be pissed if CTBUH doesn't demote this building to it's proper height. 1,373 ft. It's NOT 1,776. I'm sure that bastard Durst will try to bully them into the whole "1,776" thing but rules should not be bent just because it's the World Trade Center. That, of course, could always change -- Durst will be gone sometime hopefully soon and maybe someone with a greater sense of taste and civic pride will cover that damn thing that is being put on the roof of this otherwise handsome building!

That's what happens when you build a skyscraper in the middle of a recession.

[599GTO]

That's what happens when you build a skyscraper in the middle of a recession.

Oh please. How much did it cost to build this tower? 3-4 billion? The cost of adding a proper cover to this POS antenna is pennies compared to what they've already spent. Durst is just a greedy pig and whatever personal profit he can squeeze out of tossing the original design is clearly more important to him.

[Don098]

That's what happens when you build a skyscraper in the middle of a recession.

Yea, the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building sure are unimaginative bargains that were victims of the Great Depression. You get what you pay for, plain and simple. Some things are more important than money, and this country has forgotten that. Let's hope it's not our downfall.

[NYguy]

I can remember when the broadcasters were going to help pay for the cost of the spire. Now they're just happy to get the broadcasters back. You know, if Durst didn't want to spend the extra $10 million for the spire, a fundraising effort could have done the job, given what it represents.

We're not looking at this from a future/planning point of view, or from a historical point of view. This is happening right in front of our eyes, and you're either a fan of the antenna, and excited about seeing it rise, or longing for the sculpted spire, and horrified about what's taking shape. Either way, the moment is now, so indulge in it.


mars spades (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mars_spades/8260616999/sizes/c/in/photostream/)

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http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8260616999_31cfb6a85c_b.jpg

[Trinity2112]

That's what happens when you build a skyscraper in the middle of a recession.

No, that's what happens when you turn a project like this over to that dirty piece of shit Durst. He's been the fly in the ointment of the WTC complex for too long.....

http://letsrollforums.com/durst-and-wtc-t28733.html?

[NewYorkDominates]

pmarella
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8059/8261055374_287ffcbfe6_b.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/pmarella/8261055374/

ron.diel
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8077/8260821277_7da314d753_b.jpg

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http://www.flickr.com/photos/63316972@N08/8260821277/in/photostream/

[sterlippo1]

then put this "crap" on top to save fractions of what this building's worth and has cost..

this is the main issue for me:shrug:

[RyanD]

I feel your guys' pain. Over here in Denver they really botched the spire for one of our new towers and I look at it and go, why the hell did you do that when it's such a small marginal cost to make it look fantastic.. I've been following One WTC since it started and this is truly a sad ending to this development.. Fantastic looking tower up to that though!

[GeorgiaBoy24]

Wait, why does Durst have say-so over the chief architect anyway?

[Jonboy1983]

Wait, why does Durst have say-so over the chief architect anyway?

Because he's a cheap sadistic bastard SOB who somehow bought a stake in the tower. Please somebody invent a time machine so that someone can go back in time to prevent this disaster from happening. They should have told Durst to go fornicate with himself.

Yeah, I'm back to having a strong passionate disdain for that asswipe and his glorified turd. I really hope David Childs calls his lawyers if the height is reduced in the end.

[NewYorkDominates]

pmarella
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8480/8246099223_5bfcead9e5_h.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/pmarella/

[NYguy]

EO NY (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eony/8262173891/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

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[kpdrummer82]

Absolutely stunning NYguy, thanks so much for the post :D

[bigreach]

Absolutely stunning NYguy, thanks so much for the post :D

Yeah absolutely flawless photos NYGuy,, great post.

[NYguy]

-Giep- (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gideon2009/8263039845/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8074/8263039845_6acc7af719_b.jpg



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Stu Y Vesant (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ddir56/8261654889/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8198/8261654889_3749212279_b.jpg



mdpNY (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mdpny/8264342082/sizes/l/in/pool-18964236@N00/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8204/8264342082_0cc7a91b5b_b.jpg

[QUEENSNYMAN]

Thanks NYguy for the above pictures they awesome, I also liked the interior shots!

[QUEENSNYMAN]

FROM: 1010WINS

About the spire

http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2012/12/11/giant-spire-that-will-top-one-wtc-set-to-arrive-in-manhattan/

[Renton]

Rough comparison of old and new antenna....


http://www.pbase.com/nyguy/image/147498475/medium.jpg



http://www.pbase.com/nyguy/image/147498475/large.jpg



http://www.canadianmanufacturing.com/distribution-and-transportation/news/tower-topper-shipped-through-quebec-port-85497

http://www.canadianmanufacturing.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Atlantic-Salvor-load.jpg


BTW, it's officially in the east river now
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/default.aspx?oldmmsi=366744010&zoom=10&olddate=lastknown


Just got a wtc update on Facebook, showing the barge bringing the new antenna sections under the Bayonne Bridge to Pier 25 Manhattan. Not as bad looking as the original renderings that showed the antenna with more of a rusted look. These seems sorta light blue. We'll see. Maybe it won't be as bad as I originally thought when they showed the big change some months back.

[Noll]

WTC Progress on Facebook: (http://www.facebook.com/wtcprogress)

This morning, the barge carrying nine large pieces of the spire for the top of One World Trade Center passed by the Statue of Liberty while headed for pier 25 in lower Manhattan.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/325647_401106823299895_1594661595_o.jpg

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=401106823299895&set=a.133475800063000.32624.109423129134934&type=1&theater

[RockMont]

What floor was that shot taken on? The one where the construction workers are enclosed, and inside where the windows are finished.

[NYguy]

MadhouseMuse (http://www.flickr.com/photos/madhousemuse/8263302734/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

Edit: Image removed by forum staff; Reason: Owner doesn't want it displayed



Antenna arrival

http://statigr.am/nygovcuomo

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http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/d7bbd80643b611e2a19522000a9f126b_7.jpg

[aquablue]

Just got a wtc update on Facebook, showing the barge bringing the new antenna sections under the Bayonne Bridge to Pier 25 Manhattan. Not as bad looking as the original renderings that showed the antenna with more of a rusted look. These seems sorta light blue. We'll see. Maybe it won't be as bad as I originally thought when they showed the big change some months back.

Is it just me, or does it look thinner than the original WTC antenna? Not very encouraging render. I think this won't count as a spire when the dust settles, and it shouldn't. So disappointing that this is what we end up with after all those years of wrangling over designs.

[rack776]

I'll bet the farm that antenna ends up the rust color in the original updated renderings, it looks dingy and it has not been installed yet, I hope I'm wrong and they paint it.:(

On a positive note at least they are working on the top of the building and not still building the basement at this point in time.

Someone should start a movement in Hollywood to render the original spire in CGI in every future film & tv show, when people are used to seeing it that way and vist NY They'll see what is missing and ask why its not finished.:hell:

[599GTO]

the antenna on 1 WTC is thinner and looks more dated than the antenna on the twin towers. lol.

[aquablue]

the antenna on 1 WTC is thinner and looks more dated than the antenna on the twin towers. lol.

The original seems to have had a covering rather than the naked piece of crap we are getting today.:yuck:

[1wtcspiresavor]

The last time this thing will be this close to the ground.



Raffian Photo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/39227506@N07/8250709071/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8485/8250709071_0a226e391e_b.jpg


From this picture it seems to still have the flanges for mounting sections of the cover!
Redesign my ass Durst, you didn't redesign, you omitted and stripped upon what was already designed!
NOW FOR EVERYONE READING THIS FORUM
I am with you all and im extremely pissed about this too, what makes it worse is you wont even be able to see the spire once it is installed since it is so thin. It still is not too late to make a change. Stop bitching about this and get proactive and get something done! We have numbers here, power is in numbers ... lets use it! Hopefully this reaches you all!

[RoldanTTLB]

It's something like 17' across. Far wider than the antennas on ESB, and of similar girth to the spire on BoA, which is clearly visible from practically everywhere. It's notably wider than the spire on NYT, which is also quite visible at all times and from all places. I just don't think covering it with anything makes much of a difference, especially considering it will still be lit rather well at night.

[Squashmarks]

From the pictures, it looks like there hasn't been a new row of glass installed since Hurricane Sandy. Is that the case? What have they done?

[YankeesfaninUT]

For those of you that think the spire will end up that rust color, I highly doubt it. I'm sure they will paint it silver or white. And I really dont think they will paint it once and then never paint it again. It would make no sense to never paint it again. The rust would cause to many problems with the other equipment on top and with the building itself. No matter what your opinion is concerning Durst or the P.A. I'm sure they will still mantain it. I personally would like to see it painted white. And it is really hard to tell from a computer rendering how visible it will be from a distance. Why dont you wait and see it installed before you say that you cant see it. Even so I think you will still be able to see it at least around the New York area.

[CoolCzech]

We should remember that the George Washington Bridge was originally to be sheathed in limestone. I'm sure when the decision to leave the steel bare was made, many were initially outraged. I don't know of anyone today who would argue for adding the limestone cladding.

Let's keep an open mind.

[CarlosV]

One World Trade Center is dressed in Holiday cheer tonight :)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8488/8264645811_eecac7f337_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ceva321/8264645811/)
1 WTC dressed in Holiday cheer (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ceva321/8264645811/) by Ceva321 (http://www.flickr.com/people/ceva321/), on Flickr

[RoldanTTLB]

From the pictures, it looks like there hasn't been a new row of glass installed since Hurricane Sandy. Is that the case? What have they done?

There's been quite a bit of glass, but it's not immediately apparent. I'll get a pic tomorrow. Also, they've setup the cranes for the spire, and today poured the roof slab to start mounting it on (once it cures).

[QUEENSNYMAN]

One World Trade Center is dressed in Holiday cheer tonight :)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8488/8264645811_eecac7f337_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ceva321/8264645811/)
1 WTC dressed in Holiday cheer (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ceva321/8264645811/) by Ceva321 (http://www.flickr.com/people/ceva321/), on Flickr

Nice Carlos:tup:

[599GTO]

It's something like 17' across. Far wider than the antennas on ESB, and of similar girth to the spire on BoA, which is clearly visible from practically everywhere. It's notably wider than the spire on NYT, which is also quite visible at all times and from all places. I just don't think covering it with anything makes much of a difference, especially considering it will still be lit rather well at night.

And those all look like silly little toothpicks. Like afterthoughts. And no, they don't really stand out in the daytime. The original spire of 1 WTC looked like an architectural structure that was part of the design. It flowed with the building and gave it more height and more presence since 1,373ft isn't really impressive for such an alleged iconic office tower. We have residential buildings going up in NYC that will be taller than this.

And I'm not sure it's good for this ugly thing to be visible anyway.

[JayPro]

The antenna contrast picture shows the same old rendering we were beating each other about the head and shoulders with before. It's the one that shows the evening/early morning sunlight reflection. It will have some sort of silverish-metallic finish and surely require periodic maintenance.
Whoever uploaded the pic in question must've intended to demonstrate the contrast as it relates to bulk and dimension.
And *no*. The antenna/spire/whatever you want to split hairs calling it because I don't care at this point as long as we have something...will *not* be invisible from any reasonably great distance..and even further than *that*, I'd dare venture to guess. The proposed lighting scheme will most assuredly compensate for however insipid it might look to many by day.

[JayPro]

I hope I just didn't hear something to the effect that neither ESB's nor BofA's spires stand out by day......?!?!?!?
I can't tell you how many times on my way upstate from my home in South Huntington, LI I've ridden over the Throg's Neck Bridge (12 miles from MidTown BTW) and have seen ESB's top quite clearly...of course, citing those times when weather conditions offered a reasonable opportunity to do so.
Matter of fact, I used to be able to see both her and the Twins clearly from as far away as the Northern State Parkway interchange with the LIE...doggone near 30 miles away!
And there are a host of photos on this very site showing BofA's spire from farther venues, like Bear Mountain NY and (IIRC) some nice vantage points *well* within the Jersey state line.
If these can be seen from such distances, even this paler version of the 1WTC "spantenna" should easily be spotted.

[599GTO]

I hope I just didn't hear something to the effect that neither ESB's nor BofA's spires stand out by day......?!?!?!?

Empire State Building has a spire and an antenna and yes, the spire on the Empire State Building is clearly visible. The antenna itself flows with the design of the spire and which helps it stand out. In other words -- the antenna on the ESB actually looks like it belongs since it flows with the design. 1 WTC's dumpy antenna looks out of place and no it has no presence. That's probably a good thing anyway since it's so fucking ugly.

If we want to see what the building will look like when that antenna is installed, just look at the pics now. It will look just like the crane poking out at the top of the building at its current state. lol.

[Hudson11]

If we want to see what the building will look like when that antenna is installed, just look at the pics now. It will look just like the crane poking out at the top of the building at its current state. lol.

Did you go up there in your flying car and see it? Because you obviously came from the future.

[Traynor]

Two years spent covered in netting and the base is revealed to look almost exactly the same, save for some sprayed fireproofing.

:rolleyes:

Oh, except if you look really closely, you may notice the added steel on the corners to eventually support the squaring-off of the base.

http://i.imgur.com/nv7E2.jpg
(Close-up from webcam found HERE (http://www.video-monitoring.com/construction/kpitv/silver.htm) )

[bigreach]

Two years spent covered in netting and the base is revealed to look almost exactly the same, save for some sprayed fireproofing.

:rolleyes:

Oh, except if you look really closely, you may notice the added steel on the corners to eventually support the squaring-off of the base.

http://i.imgur.com/nv7E2.jpg
(Close-up from webcam found HERE (http://www.video-monitoring.com/construction/kpitv/silver.htm) )

Exactly,, a BIG Nothing.. Durst really F'd this 1 up,, We'd also be lucky to see tower 2 rise ever as well.. Just seems like 0 progress going on.

[NYC GUY]

Empire State Building has a spire and an antenna and yes, the spire on the Empire State Building is clearly visible. The antenna itself flows with the design of the spire and which helps it stand out. In other words -- the antenna on the ESB actually looks like it belongs since it flows with the design. 1 WTC's dumpy antenna looks out of place and no it has no presence. That's probably a good thing anyway since it's so fucking ugly.

If we want to see what the building will look like when that antenna is installed, just look at the pics now. It will look just like the crane poking out at the top of the building at its current state. lol.

Don't wanna get too off topic but I don't think ESB has a spire what your talking about is the 102nd floor which is still considered the roof. Any way i'm gonna say judging by photos base glass will start by january.

[Otie]

Two years spent covered in netting and the base is revealed to look almost exactly the same, save for some sprayed fireproofing.

:rolleyes:

Oh, except if you look really closely, you may notice the added steel on the corners to eventually support the squaring-off of the base.

http://i.imgur.com/nv7E2.jpg
(Close-up from webcam found HERE (http://www.video-monitoring.com/construction/kpitv/silver.htm) )

The whole point for installing the temporary safety net was to allow crews fireproof the perimeter structure and later weld the clipped anchors that will support the V shaped panels. Alot of work has been done behind that black netting.

[ThatOneGuy]

I was thinking the same...

[NYguy]

We should remember that the George Washington Bridge was originally to be sheathed in limestone.

Let's keep an open mind.


Ummm, no...:hmmm:


The GWB was meant to be, and still functions as a bridge, not a spire. And it would have with or without that limestone.

This is another issue entirely.



Vinny S. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinschiano/8265174055/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8224/8265174055_786cac490c_b.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8480/8266249530_879e34197c_b.jpg



http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/MSNBC/Components/Photo/_new/pb-121112-nyc-spires-jsw-01.photoblog900.jpg
http://photoblog.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/12/11/15847647-freedom-tower-spire-arrives-in-new-york-city?lite



jpalison (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jpalison/8264407449/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8207/8264407449_b697bcbddd_z.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8337/8265481868_bb00121ff6_z.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8498/8265421104_9ef35b79aa_z.jpg



http://tribecacitizen.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/1wtc-spire-arrival-by-Juan.jpg
http://tribecacitizen.com/2012/12/11/seen-heard-1-world-trade-center-spire-arrives/



http://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20121211/financial-district/wtc-spire-arrives-new-york-city

http://assets.dnainfo.com/generated/photo/2012/12/wtc-spire-13552560059824.jpg/image640x480.jpg



http://assets.dnainfo.com/generated/photo/2012/12/wtc-spire-13552562365551.jpg/image640x480.jpg



LlaQWQTLR_s

[rockinrolla]

EO NY (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eony/8262173891/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8081/8262173891_fa52cbbda6_b.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8479/8262168801_77377595f0_b.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8080/8263229200_2d5e91b5d5_b.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8207/8262153517_13b6a637c2_b.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8337/8262153741_e786bb4aee_b.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8489/8263226190_3f0bb24e02_b.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8478/8262157853_5e3893b126_b.jpg

are those from the observation floor?? Thanks

[SFContributor]

I've seen the set on Flickr, I'm pretty sure they're on the 87th floor.

[NewYorkDominates]

Liberty Helicopter Charter
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/262640_305335182918871_824717771_n.jpg?dl=1

http://m.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=305335182918871&id=303707056415017&set=a.304130019706054.71414.303707056415017&refid=17

[DesignerVoodoo]

I took these tonight of the delivery of #1 of 18, this is the base that connects to the building and weighs 65 tons. http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/7746/img8665x.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/20/img8665x.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us) http://img21.imageshack.us/img21/7831/img9043h.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/21/img9043h.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us) http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/1849/img8598w.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/59/img8598w.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

[DesignerVoodoo]

This is the closest I will ever be to it. http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/5107/img8950w.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/209/img8950w.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

[NYC2ATX]

Not to fan the flames, but if those of you taking issue with the spire/mast/antenna/who-gives-a-shit are going to let it ruin this building or entire complex for you, than you are no skyscraper lover as far as I'm concerned.

Que sera, sera, as they say. Whatever will be, will be. To make a comparison, I sometimes shake my head at the demolition of the original Penn Station, but I don't feel that New York City was ruined forever *GASP* on that fateful day in 1963. Neither was this the case after 9/11.

I guarantee that, spire or no spire, this tower will become a beloved part of the New York skyline in years to come. Kids born today will know full well about 9/11 from their history textbooks, but they will not be any less inspired by this pillar of American resilience rising from the ashes of a tragedy...simply because of what crowns it. Let's not forget that the greatest symbolism of this tower and complex is its mere existence, not the minutiae of its design. :cool:

[islandxtreme26]

First sections of the spire/antenna/big ugly stick are being hoisted right now...live video on foxnews.com

http://video.foxnews.com/video-live-streaming.html?video_id=1155606982001

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/3746/17075224.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/211/17075224.jpg/)

[NYC=WTC]

Cool! :banana::cheers::banana::worship::dancing:

[NYguy]

Not to fan the flames, but if those of you taking issue with the spire/mast/antenna/who-gives-a-shit are going to let it ruin this building or entire complex for you, than you are no skyscraper lover as far as I'm concerned.

Good thing no one is going to let what you think make up their minds. People have a right to decide whether or not they like something, and there are many valid reasons why people do not or should not like what is taking place here. And just so you know, not every skyscraper lover loves every skyscraper. And not every thing about a loved skyscraper is loved. Let that sink in a bit.



http://observer.com/2012/12/1-wtc-spire-heads-for-the-skyline/

http://nyoobserver.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/3.jpg?w=450&h=336



http://nyoobserver.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/21.jpg

[deepen915]

looking great! finally the spire is being lifted! :cheers:

[FrancoRey]

So, looks and aesthetics aside, was there ever a 'formal' verdict on whether or not this revised spire will count as part of the height of 1WTC? I remember there was concern not long ago about the revision making it more an 'antenna' than a spire, thus disqualifying the building's height as 1,787 feet. I know it's not the original spire plan but it still looks to be very much a structural addition and not an antenna casing.

Pls don't flame me; there just are simply far too many posts for me to find this on my own. Thnx.

[Harley613]

Personally I consider this revision an antennae and don't believe it should be counted as part of the height. It's really too bad.

[VerizonTower]

Could anybody post a picture of the mast (you can call it the antenna) on the tower? I'm thrilled to see!

[VerizonTower]

So, looks and aesthetics aside, was there ever a 'formal' verdict on whether or not this revised spire will count as part of the height of 1WTC? I remember there was concern not long ago about the revision making it more an 'antenna' than a spire, thus disqualifying the building's height as 1,787 feet. I know it's not the original spire plan but it still looks to be very much a structural addition and not an antenna casing.

Pls don't flame me; there just are simply far too many posts for me to find this on my own. Thnx.

It's a mast. Without the fiberglass, it's a bare mast. It'll be counted.

[VerizonTower]

Next page maybe?

[NYguy]

So, looks and aesthetics aside, was there ever a 'formal' verdict on whether or not this revised spire will count as part of the height of 1WTC?

Officially, no, and there won't be until the building is complete. But there was this release...

http://www.ctbuh.org/News/GlobalTallNews/tabid/468/EntryId/4638/1WTCs-Antenna-Surrendered-by-Canadian-Fabricator.aspx

1WTC's 'Antenna' Surrendered by Canadian Fabricator

Media reports alternately called the structure an “antenna” and a “spire.” But the CTBUH makes an important distinction between the two—spires are included in the CTBUH height measurements for a building, but antennas and temporary structures are not.

Earlier this year developers of 1WTC changed the design for the structure, raising questions about the ultimate height of the building.

They will wait until the building is complete before making official judgement.



http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/piece-world-trade-center-spire-atop-skyscraper-article-1.1218360

First piece of One World Trade Center spire placed atop building 104-stories above Manhattan
16-foot-tall section weighing nearly 70 tons was lifted into position, bringing skyscraper one step closer to being tallest in Western hemisphere


http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1218382.1355324480!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/article-spire4-1212.jpg


By Erik Badia
December 12, 2012



The first piece of the spire that will sit atop One World Trade Center was lifted by crane up the side of the downtown Manhattan building Wednesday morning.

The 16-foot-tall barrel-shaped section of steel, which weighs nearly 70 tons, was successfully raised 104 stories from ground level at Vesey St. to the top of the tower in about 45 minutes. The lift was completed at 9 a.m.

The section raised is one of 18 that will be lifted and then assembled on top of the tower over the next several months. Port Authority officials estimate the spire will be completed in the first quarter of 2013.


http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1218381!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/article-spire3-1212.jpg



MadhouseMuse (http://www.flickr.com/photos/madhousemuse/8267424020/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

Edit: Images removed by forum staff, Reason: Owner doesn't want them displayed

[meh_cd]

Could anybody post a picture of the mast (you can call it the antenna) on the tower? I'm thrilled to see!

Courtesy of Otie on page 1414:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8494/8256173783_828700f478_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/62018165@N04/8256173783/)
One World Trade Center from the sky (http://www.flickr.com/photos/62018165@N04/8256173783/) by Otie O'Daniel (http://www.flickr.com/people/62018165@N04/), on Flickr

[QUEENSNYMAN]

FROM: 1010WINS

http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2012/12/12/crews-to-lift-first-section-of-wtc-spire/

[rack776]

If the spire is eventually considered an antenna instead of part of the building, would the FAA require it to be painted red & white to be more visible to aircraft in the day time like the antenna on the Sears/Willis Tower in Chicago?

Either way its good to see some work being done again after the storm, thanks for the great photos guys!:tup:

[CCs77]

:previous:

Such requirement would be completely independent of the name they call it. It is not that just for changing the name it would be more or less visible.
If the FAA has some requirement of visibility, it must be already made, no matter if they declared it a spire or an antenna. It has to be visible either way.

[Renton]

Not to fan the flames, but if those of you taking issue with the spire/mast/antenna/who-gives-a-shit are going to let it ruin this building or entire complex for you, than you are no skyscraper lover as far as I'm concerned.

Que sera, sera, as they say. Whatever will be, will be. To make a comparison, I sometimes shake my head at the demolition of the original Penn Station, but I don't feel that New York City was ruined forever *GASP* on that fateful day in 1963. Neither was this the case after 9/11.

I guarantee that, spire or no spire, this tower will become a beloved part of the New York skyline in years to come. Kids born today will know full well about 9/11 from their history textbooks, but they will not be any less inspired by this pillar of American resilience rising from the ashes of a tragedy...simply because of what crowns it. Let's not forget that the greatest symbolism of this tower and complex is its mere existence, not the minutiae of its design. :cool:

Old Penn station was before my time. Didn't even know about it till i saw a cable special on it this last summer. It was beautiful. Nicer than Grand Central. If you think this newer penn station didn't ruin that area, Your kidding yourself. How the city let that happen is unbelievable. And yes, most of us don't like the new (antenna) that is replacing the original Spire.

[Kevin Scott Koepke]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8071/8266766551_b3d0a61068.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plasticfantasticphotography/8266766551/)
One World Trade Center; 12/12/12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plasticfantasticphotography/8266766551/) by kevin scott koepke photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/plasticfantasticphotography/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8082/8266728045_f9145ea4a4.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plasticfantasticphotography/8266728045/)
One World Trade Center; 12/12/12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plasticfantasticphotography/8266728045/) by kevin scott koepke photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/plasticfantasticphotography/), on Flickr

[NYC=WTC]

In the last pic u can see that they are cutting the black safety netting to place more glass on the upper floors. That concrete & fireproofing sure did take a while to complete. No more setbacks or delays people, this tower will be finished by this time next year! :yes::cool::yes:

[Otie]

Some renderings by Visualhouse (same 3D studio hired by Related for Hudson Yards renderings), quite dissapointing they used dbox material for some of the visuals...

http://img541.imageshack.us/img541/3985/73623023.jpg

http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/1066/73530010.jpg

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/1899/69317105.jpg

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/2632/79270960.jpg

[NYC GUY]

The heck did they do to 4 wtc in that rendering lol.

[Totojuice]

The heck did they do to 4 wtc in that rendering lol.

right??? I was thiking the same thing. LOL. Bushleague :haha:

[Kevin Scott Koepke]

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8488/8267119719_f9f3e1576b_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plasticfantasticphotography/8267119719/)
One World Trade Center; 12/12/12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/plasticfantasticphotography/8267119719/) by kevin scott koepke photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/plasticfantasticphotography/), on Flickr

[Otie]

Dancing cranes! :cool:

[jd3189]

Regardless of what anyone thinks, this will be an exciting time of construction. We will finally see the tower fully completed and we'll continue to get views from one of the tallest structures in this country in quite a long time. America hasn't done stuff like this since the 70s and to think this is almost repeating history for a new generation along with upcoming buildings that will go beyond the height of 1 WTC is something that should remind us of the resiliency this country has proved time and time again.

[NYguy]

America hasn't done stuff like this since the 70s and to think this is almost repeating history for a new generation along with upcoming buildings that will go beyond the height of 1 WTC is something that should remind us of the resiliency this country has proved time and time again.

America hasn't done something like this ever. This is a totally unique development both for what came before it and what it represents. It's for that very same reason that we don't just throw this in with any old development in the City. This is different, and I'm sure I don't have to explain that to anyone. Because if I do, then its already lost anyway.


Still, it was a noteworthy day (on 12-12-12 no less) in that it signals the beginning of the end of construction on this tower.



http://observer.com/2012/12/a-spire-after-11-years-one-world-trade-center-gets-to-the-point/

Outside the construction site, from the PATH station, waves of people, businessmen and -women, tourists and steelworkers, went to work. A few stopped to grab quick photos of the steel nest as it was suspended in the air. The $20 million, Canadian-made, 408-foot crown was built to serve the broadcast station planned for 1 World Trade. According to Port Authority managers, it is a technical marvel.


“Everything on this project is either cutting-edge, state-of-the-art or something that’s never been done before,” WTC construction director Steve Plate told reporters this morning.

Watching from the street, The Observer didn’t see anything particularly cutting-edge about this specific piece of steel. If anything, it almost looked like something carved by nature in its rigid perfection. But it wasn’t the technical aspects of the installation that were stopping people in the street. The crowning of this building, despite controversy and for all the obvious reasons, is a moment for New Yorkers to celebrate.



http://www.businessinsider.com/one-world-trade-spire-photos-2012-12

http://static4.businessinsider.com/image/50c8dd8eecad04434000000a-3000-2003/158257669.jpg



http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/50c8ddc1ecad04414000000c-800-1088/158257679.jpg



http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2012/12/first_section_of_wtc_spire_hoi.html

http://media.silive.com/advance/photo/2012/12/-216ce2f9dd628afd.jpg



http://media.silive.com/advance/photo/2012/12/11983646-standard.jpg



http://media.silive.com/advance/photo/2012/12/11983645-standard.jpg



http://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20121212/financial-district/first-piece-of-wtc-spire-hoisted-atop-high-rise

http://assets.dnainfo.com/generated/photo/2012/12/spire-hoisted-top-of-1-world-trade-center-13553245714113.jpg/image640x480.jpg



http://assets.dnainfo.com/generated/photo/2012/12/spire-hoisted-top-of-1-world-trade-center-13553245762682.jpg/image640x480.jpg



http://assets.dnainfo.com/generated/photo/2012/12/spire-hoisted-top-of-1-world-trade-center-13553245839695.jpg/image640x480.jpg



http://gothamist.com/2012/12/12/photos_world_trade_center_gets_its.php#photo-3

http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/12/2012_11_spire3.jpg



http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/12/2012_11_spire4.jpg



http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/12/2012_11_spire8.jpg



http://gothamist.com/upload/2012/12/2012_11_spire9.jpg



http://www.timesonline.com/news/national/first-section-of-wtc-spire-set-to-be-hoisted/article_ce7f58a6-af16-59cf-a0bd-118e39aaa184.html

http://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/timesonline.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/3b/d3b6852c-caf6-59f2-af52-960562351015/50c8aa59dba6b.preview-300.jpg

Workers pour the concrete roof of One World Trade Center, Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012 in New York. Behind them is the steel superstructure that will support a 408-foot spire that is expected to rise into the Manhattan sky by spring.



W4P6DREmX7c



JoeConcrete 55 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joeconcrete55/8267070467/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8344/8267070467_cbc95bb3c6_b.jpg



http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8482/8268142934_3fe3fc8b0c_b.jpg



http://statigr.am/nygovcuomo

http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/555ce77643c811e28a6522000a9f17d4_7.jpg
Atop #1WTC, wkers pour concrete for the spire base & roof slab


http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/6933521243c811e288ea22000a1f9318_7.jpg
View of center of concrete base for #1WTC spire at top of tower


http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/b1e91c9c446511e280ba22000a9f1893_7.jpg
Early this am, #WTC spire moved into position to be lifted to top of tower


http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/4536baf4446611e28a5c22000a1f8acf_7.jpg
#WTC spire weighing nearly 60 tons begins lift to the top on the tower

[VerizonTower]

Courtesy of Otie on page 1414:

I meant the current progress. I want a close-up with the first sections installed.

[TouchTheSky13]

Not to fan the flames, but if those of you taking issue with the spire/mast/antenna/who-gives-a-shit are going to let it ruin this building or entire complex for you, than you are no skyscraper lover as far as I'm concerned.

Que sera, sera, as they say. Whatever will be, will be. To make a comparison, I sometimes shake my head at the demolition of the original Penn Station, but I don't feel that New York City was ruined forever *GASP* on that fateful day in 1963. Neither was this the case after 9/11.

I guarantee that, spire or no spire, this tower will become a beloved part of the New York skyline in years to come. Kids born today will know full well about 9/11 from their history textbooks, but they will not be any less inspired by this pillar of American resilience rising from the ashes of a tragedy...simply because of what crowns it. Let's not forget that the greatest symbolism of this tower and complex is its mere existence, not the minutiae of its design. :cool:

Well Said! We have to look at the big picture.

[NYguy]

Well Said! We have to look at the big picture.

The "big picture" is that with other towers nearing or topping the Freedom Tower in height in Manhattan, the spire was to be the one thing that set it apart from the others. Now it's just another supertall tower with a big antenna on top. NOT what was promised. History will look back on this as a "cheapining down" and it would be hard to argue.

Listen, some people will like the antenna, some people would be happy with whatever they put up there, that's hardly surprising. It is a little sad though that we're not really that far removed from events that led to the rebuilding in the first place, and people look on this as just another building under construction. At least it will finally be done and we can look forward to other great things to rise.



http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/12/1-world-trade-center-is-a-growing-presence-and-a-changed-one/?ref=davidmchilds

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2012/05/09/blogs/20120509Tall/20120509Tall-custom1.jpg

The original design of 1 World Trade Center, in rendering at left, included a sculptural enclosure for the building’s mast. Stripped of the cladding, the mast could be considered an antenna, not a spire, reducing the official height.


http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2012/06/12/blogs/20120612Tower3/20120612Tower3-custom1.jpg

The west plaza in plan, with Vesey Street at the top. The 2006 design, left, had broad steps down the sidewalks and a skylight (blue circle) over the observation deck lobby. The current design, right, is a terrace, reached by stairs at Vesey Street and bordered by a blocklong planter.


http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2012/06/12/blogs/20120612Tower1/20120612Tower1-custom1.jpg

In the 2006 design for the base of 1 World Trade Center, left, the structure was to have been clad in prismatic glass, with corners that sloped outward from the ground. The current plan, right, substitutes glass fins and eliminates the inclines at all four corners.




elziZx-nkuU

Anyway, enjoy the assembly. It's the beginning of the end.

[-Filipe-]

Not to fan the flames, but if those of you taking issue with the spire/mast/antenna/who-gives-a-shit are going to let it ruin this building or entire complex for you, than you are no skyscraper lover as far as I'm concerned.

Que sera, sera, as they say. Whatever will be, will be. To make a comparison, I sometimes shake my head at the demolition of the original Penn Station, but I don't feel that New York City was ruined forever *GASP* on that fateful day in 1963. Neither was this the case after 9/11.

I guarantee that, spire or no spire, this tower will become a beloved part of the New York skyline in years to come. Kids born today will know full well about 9/11 from their history textbooks, but they will not be any less inspired by this pillar of American resilience rising from the ashes of a tragedy...simply because of what crowns it. Let's not forget that the greatest symbolism of this tower and complex is its mere existence, not the minutiae of its design. :cool:

very true, instead of complaining about the antenna that is no longer a spire, myself included, we should just enjoy watching it rise, us complaining about how crappy it is compared to the spire, wont change it back to a spire, its out of each of our hands.

[bigreach]

Great video updates guys,,, Can I ask why it'll take 3 months to complete the antennae? why 3 months? It seems like they could do 1 a day, 2nd piece bolt right down in 1 day while the 3rd piece is being hoisted,,why 3 months,, I'm curious, can they only take each and every piece 1 at a time from the barge? and possibly do it "only" on Sunday nights where they don't disrupt traffic, and can move trafffic and phone wires then? Somebody help me out. That's the only reason why it would take 3 months, I can see is (they can only do 1 piece at a time)due to the trip from the barge in heavy traffic???) I Just don't know!!!

[jd3189]

:previous: Maybe they taking precautions. Anything could happen that would yet again put this tower behind schedule.

[TouchTheSky13]

With the exception of the changes to the mast, I am happy with all the other changes Durst has made. I couldn't really care less about the plaza thing. The terrace is ok with me and its probably more secure than the previous design. Let's keep in mind, the wounds of 9-11 are still pretty fresh, relatively speaking. It is very likely that the WTC will be attacked again. It won't be an attempt at bringing the tower down, but it will be meant to scare people and rob them of their peace of mind. It's not a question of if, but when.

[bigreach]

It does look massive on the truck and barge, but it looks tiny compared to the tower, especially the pic with the crane lifting.. Now will the middle of tha spire/antennae be fatter like the design of the original spire???

I'd hate to ask this, stupid question,,, (but I truley don't know) will it sit "directly" "the antennae" on the roof? Or is that table like thing 30-40ft above the roof,, will it sit on that? What I'm asking is, the "table-like" thing permanant or temporary? AND is that, what the 1st piece (of antennae) is sitting on referred to as the "dog house"?

[Yackemflaber69]

is it going to be installed tommarow

[YankeesfaninUT]

I'd hate to ask this, stupid question,,, (but I truley don't know) will it sit "directly" "the antennae" on the roof? Or is that table like thing 30-40ft above the roof,, will it sit on that? What I'm asking is, the "table-like" thing permanant or temporary? AND is that, what the 1st piece (of antennae) is sitting on referred to as the "dog house"?

The only stupid question is the one that is never asked. The spire is directly attached to the tower itself. The platform that has been built is what the tower crane is attached to and is also used to stage equipment and for bracing. It is only temporary and will be removed once construction is completed.

[NYC=WTC]

is it going to be installed tommarow

With this installation moving at fast pace, the antenna can be definitely finished by early next month. This installation will not take a full 6 or 3 months like previously said, because crews are already installing the largest and most toughest pieces, so I know the smaller pieces will take very little time to install. Anybody know if the radome was completed, just in case Durst had a change of heart for the 9/11 families and decided to put it on?

Forgot that nine more pieces has to be shipped by truck from Canada.

[TechTalkGuy]

With the antenna spire finally rising to the sky, I wonder when the antenna ring will be installed.

[NYC=WTC]

That fiberglass radome cover for the antenna would have been really cool. Hope they reconsider.

[CityGuy87]

I can only imagine the media's reaction when the CTBUH (most likely) rules this as an antenna, demoting the building's official height. Durst and the PA are gonna have one hell of a PR nightmare to deal with.

[Ch.G, Ch.G]

The "big picture" is that with other towers nearing or topping the Freedom Tower in height in Manhattan, the spire was to be the one thing that set it apart from the others. Now it's just another supertall tower with a big antenna on top. NOT what was promised. History will look back on this as a "cheapining down" and it would be hard to argue.

Listen, some people will like the antenna, some people would be happy with whatever they put up there, that's hardly surprising. It is a little sad though that we're not really that far removed from events that led to the rebuilding in the first place, and people look on this as just another building under construction. At least it will finally be done and we can look forward to other great things to rise.

Great summary of the value engineering (or whatever the hell it is) that took place. The faceted spire casing was the best part of Childs' design, and that tapered base with its "prismatic glass" created some dynamism in building that was otherwise bunkerlike and static. IMO, it's a pretty big indictment of David Childs not only that he failed to execute those two elements, but also that, without them, the design loses most of its merit.

That said, I don't think the antenna is that bad. I think the transparency of its underlying structure is actually kinda beautiful. But it's totally inappropriate for this design. On a Richard Rogers building, though, (maybe even 175 Greenwich Street?) it might not look out of place...

[NYC=WTC]

Can't believe durst did this to the 9/11 families. I think Durst will be pressured to cover that antenna.