Midtown’s Rising Vertical Village: What You Need to Know
520 Fifth Avenue New York is a 1,002-foot supertall skyscraper currently under construction in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Here’s what you need to know:
- Height: 1,002 feet (305 meters), making it the second-tallest building on Fifth Avenue after the Empire State Building
- Stories: 88 floors
- Developer: Rabina
- Architect: Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF)
- Interior Design: Charles & Co.
- Mixed-Use Program:
- 100 luxury condominiums (floors 42-88)
- 25 boutique office floors (floors 4-28)
- Ground-floor retail (3,500 sq ft)
- Moss private members club
- Expected Completion: June 1, 2026
- Current Status: Topped out in 2024, façade installation ongoing
Standing at the intersection of luxury, innovation, and urban living, 520 Fifth Avenue New York represents the next evolution in Manhattan’s prestigious Fifth Avenue corridor. With its distinctive terracotta façade featuring arched windows that spiral upward across all sides, this slender tower is set to become one of Midtown’s most recognizable landmarks.
The building rises from a narrow 85-foot-wide lot yet soars to impressive heights, showcasing remarkable engineering achievements. Its tripartite design draws inspiration from Hugh Ferriss’s visionary architectural illustrations and Beaux-Arts landmarks that define the neighborhood, creating a modern interpretation of classic New York architecture.
I’m Ronald Shen, and through my extensive research of Manhattan’s evolving skyline and frequent visits to monitor construction progress at 520 Fifth Avenue New York, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for this architectural marvel that will transform the Midtown landscape.
What Is Rising at 520 Fifth Avenue, New York?
Nestled mid-block between 43rd and 44th Streets along Manhattan’s legendary Fifth Avenue, 520 Fifth Avenue New York is changing the Midtown skyline before our eyes. This ambitious creation from developer Rabina, with architecture by the visionary firm Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), is reaching for the clouds at a breathtaking 1,002 feet across 88 stories.
This isn’t just any building – it’s a vertical masterpiece situated at coordinates 40°45′15″N 73°58′52″W, placing it squarely in the beating heart of one of the world’s most coveted business and shopping districts. As a certified supertall (the exclusive club of buildings exceeding 300 meters/984 feet), 520 Fifth Avenue joins the elite ranks of Manhattan skyscrapers that give the city its unmistakable silhouette.
The ground level will welcome visitors with 3,500 square feet of luxury retail space featuring dramatic 40-foot ceiling heights in its entrance foyers – creating a truly grand Fifth Avenue presence. While the iconic Empire State Building will maintain its crown as Fifth Avenue’s tallest at 1,454 feet (antenna included), 520 Fifth Avenue will proudly stand as the avenue’s second-tallest structure.
| Building | Height | Stories | Completion | Developer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Empire State Building | 1,454 ft | 102 | 1931 | Empire State Inc. |
| 520 Fifth Avenue | 1,002 ft | 88 | 2026 | Rabina |
| 500 Fifth Avenue | 697 ft | 60 | 1931 | Walter Salmon |
| 666 Fifth Avenue | 664 ft | 41 | 1957 | Tishman Realty |
| 551 Fifth Avenue | 555 ft | 42 | 1929 | Fred T. Ley & Co. |
How tall will 520 Fifth Avenue New York be?
Soaring to 1,002 feet (305 meters), 520 Fifth Avenue New York will claim its place as Fifth Avenue’s second-tallest landmark, with only the legendary Empire State Building standing taller. What’s truly remarkable is how this tower achieves such heights from such modest beginnings – rising from a plot merely 85 feet wide, making it one of Manhattan’s most daringly slender supertall structures.
This extraordinary height-to-width ratio presented enormous engineering problems that have been conquered through cutting-edge structural innovation. The tower’s impact on the Midtown skyline will be impossible to miss, as it will stand visible from countless vantage points across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.
The building’s distinctive profile – characterized by gracefully spiraling setbacks and neat arched windows – will create a fresh visual anchor in Midtown’s core, honoring the area’s historic architecture while introducing a bold contemporary statement to Fifth Avenue’s storied corridor.
When will 520 Fifth Avenue New York open?
520 Fifth Avenue New York hit a major milestone in early 2024 when construction crews topped out the structure at its full height of 1,002 feet. This achievement marks the completion of the building’s concrete superstructure, shifting focus to the installation of its stunning terracotta façade and interior finishing work.
According to the latest timeline, the tower is on track for completion by June 1, 2026. The residential sales campaign officially kicked off in April 2024, with the respected Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group handling condominium sales while JLL manages the leasing of office spaces.
The façade installation has made impressive progress, with the warm tan terracotta envelope and signature arched windows now visible across many floors. As of mid-2024, the façade work has reached the roof parapet, giving New Yorkers and visitors alike a tantalizing preview of the finished aesthetic that will soon become a defining feature of the Midtown landscape.
Architects, Developers & Design History
The story behind 520 Fifth Avenue New York reads like a classic New York real estate saga – filled with big dreams, changing hands, and architectural ambition. Today’s stunning tower is the vision of Rabina, brought to life by the creative minds at Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), with Charles & Co. adding their magic touch to the interiors.
In a bold statement of confidence in Manhattan’s luxury market, Bank OZK stepped up with a massive $540 million construction loan – no small feat considering the pandemic’s shadow over commercial real estate. Suffolk Construction took on the challenging task of building this slender giant, developing specialized techniques to manage the complex engineering demands of a supertall on such a narrow footprint.
What makes this tower truly special is how it honors Manhattan’s architectural heritage. KPF’s design pays homage to Hugh Ferriss, whose dramatic early 20th-century renderings of setback skyscrapers helped shape New York’s iconic skyline. The building’s neat terracotta façade and rhythmic arched windows aren’t just beautiful – they’re a deliberate nod to nearby Beaux-Arts masterpieces like the New York Public Library and Grand Central Terminal.
James von Klemperer, KPF’s President, has specifically mentioned drawing inspiration from the Century Association Building, the majestic New York Public Library Main Branch, and the beloved Grand Central Terminal – all architectural treasures that define Midtown’s special character. The result is a modern interpretation that feels both fresh and familiar, creating a fascinating dialogue between contemporary engineering and classic design.
520 Fifth Avenue New York: site’s stop-start saga
The patch of Manhattan where 520 Fifth Avenue New York now rises has weathered quite the rollercoaster journey. It all began back in 2008 when Aby Rosen and RFR Holding scooped up the property with grand plans for a mixed-use tower. Then the financial crisis hit, and those dreams were shelved.
By 2015, Thor Equities partnered with General Growth Properties to propose a soaring 71-story mixed-use skyscraper. They even got as far as demolishing the existing buildings, but the construction cranes never arrived.
The plot thickened when Ceruzzi Properties and SMI USA purchased the site in 2015 for a cool $275 million. Their vision for the property faced tragedy when Ceruzzi’s founder passed away in 2017, eventually leading to loan defaults and the property landing back on the market.
Finally, in 2019, Rabina entered the picture, acquiring the site, clearing the outstanding loan, and securing a fresh $110 million mortgage. After filing updated plans in 2021, excavation finally broke ground in late 2021 – marking the true beginning of construction after more than a decade of false starts.
This winding path reflects the challenges and resilience of Manhattan real estate development, particularly during economic uncertainty. Today’s rising tower stands as testament to perseverance in one of the world’s most competitive real estate markets, changing this prominent Fifth Avenue address from perpetual potential into stunning reality.
Inside the Vertical Village: Program, Residences & Amenities
When you step inside 520 Fifth Avenue New York, you’re entering what designers call a “vertical village” – and it truly feels like one. This isn’t just marketing speak; the building thoughtfully stacks different worlds on top of each other, creating a complete ecosystem for living, working, and playing.
From the ground up, the building tells a story of thoughtful design. The residential section crowns the tower, with 100 luxury condos spanning floors 42 through 88. These aren’t your typical Manhattan apartments – they feature soaring ceilings between 10 and 14 feet high, giving each home an airy, expansive feel. Some lucky residents will enjoy private terraces where they can sip morning coffee with panoramic views of the city spread out below them.
Office spaces occupy floors 4 through 28, offering 25 full-floor environments that break from the corporate norm. These aren’t cramped cubicle farms but open, column-free spaces where companies can create their ideal work environment. The building’s slender design means natural light floods in from multiple directions – a rarity in many Manhattan offices.
At street level, approximately 3,500 square feet of retail space will connect the building to Fifth Avenue’s busy energy. This isn’t just functional – it’s part of maintaining the avenue’s legacy as a world-class shopping destination.
One of the most intriguing aspects of 520 Fifth Avenue is the Moss private members club on the second level. This exclusive space will feature its own restaurant, bar, and lounge – creating a sophisticated place to connect with others without leaving the building. Below ground, residents can blow off steam with pickleball courts and golf simulators, bringing recreational options typically found in suburban country clubs right into the heart of Manhattan.
Residence layouts & pricing
Living at 520 Fifth Avenue New York starts at the 42nd floor – ensuring that even the “lowest” homes offer spectacular views that many Manhattanites can only dream about. The 100 condominiums range from cozy one-bedrooms starting at $1.7 million to breathtaking full-floor penthouses commanding prices that reflect their exclusivity.
What makes these homes special isn’t just their height but their thoughtful design. The architects have worked magic with the building’s slender footprint, creating generous living spaces that don’t feel compromised. Many larger residences feature triple exposures – meaning windows on three sides – allowing sunlight to dance through the spaces throughout the day while offering different perspectives on the city below.
The interiors feel both timeless and fresh, thanks to AD100 designer Vicky Charles of Charles & Co. You’ll find 7-inch white oak wide-plank floors underfoot, European-inspired mosaic details that catch the eye, and richly veined stone surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms that add a sense of natural luxury.
The windows deserve special mention – many are a massive 10 feet square and can actually be opened, a surprising feature at these heights that allows for fresh air when desired. The building’s setback design, which gives it that distinctive silhouette, creates opportunities for private terraces on select homes – offering that most coveted of Manhattan luxuries: outdoor space with a view.
Sales launched in April 2024 through Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group, with strong early interest despite premium pricing. Curious buyers can visit the sales gallery at 521 Fifth Avenue to experience the finishes and views firsthand.
Amenities that rival luxury hotels
The amenities at 520 Fifth Avenue New York flip the typical luxury condo script in the most delightful way. Instead of relegating the shared spaces to lower floors as most buildings do, the crown jewel of the amenity collection sits at the very top – a residents-only retreat on the 88th floor featuring a glass-walled solarium with truly unobstructed, 360-degree views.
This spectacular space includes a welcoming lounge, an neat dining room for private events, a billiards table for friendly competition, a library for quiet moments, and a game room for more lively gatherings. The design maintains the same high standards found throughout the residences, creating a seamless extension of home rather than an afterthought.
The building doesn’t stop there. Residents also enjoy:
- A beautiful swimming pool and spa/therapy rooms for relaxation and wellness
- A state-of-the-art fitness center that makes keeping healthy routines easy
- Multiple lounges and social spaces designed for both planned gatherings and spontaneous connections
Privacy and appropriate service levels are maintained through three separate lobbies – one for residents, another for office tenants, and a third for the Moss club members. This thoughtful separation ensures each group enjoys an experience custom to their needs without compromising the others.
Throughout these spaces, the design emphasizes not just luxury but genuine wellbeing. The materials, lighting, and spatial flow all work together to create environments that support both physical health and social connection – essentials for true quality of life in an urban setting.
Boutique office experience
The office spaces at 520 Fifth Avenue New York break the mold of typical Manhattan commercial real estate. Spanning floors 4 through 28, these environments offer something increasingly rare: a prestigious Fifth Avenue address combined with thoroughly modern workplace design that doesn’t feel corporate or anonymous.
Each office floor ranges from 6,000 to 12,000 square feet – not massive by Manhattan standards, but ideally sized for companies seeking an intimate, boutique feel. The ceiling heights exceed 12 feet, dramatically more generous than typical office spaces. This vertical generosity, paired with column-free layouts, creates flexible environments that can adapt to various workplace needs without compromise.
What makes these spaces truly special is their full-floor identity. Companies can occupy entire levels, creating a sense of private domain that’s increasingly rare in commercial buildings. Select office floors include private terraces – imagine stepping outside for fresh air during a challenging project or hosting a client meeting with the Empire State Building as your backdrop.
The technical aspects don’t disappoint either. Tenants enjoy their own controlled HVAC systems, state-of-the-art connectivity infrastructure, improved security, and a dedicated lobby and elevator bank. JLL is handling the leasing, targeting companies in finance, technology, media, and professional services who value both address prestige and a quality environment.
The building’s location near Grand Central Terminal and multiple subway lines makes it accessible for commuters from throughout the metropolitan area – a crucial consideration for companies concerned about employee satisfaction.
At RNR Cannabis Dispensary, we appreciate thoughtfully designed spaces that foster creativity and community. Just as our Dispensary Downtown Brooklyn location creates an environment where people can connect and explore, 520 Fifth Avenue will contribute to Midtown Manhattan’s ongoing renaissance, bringing fresh energy to this historic business district.
Construction Progress, Engineering Challenges & Sustainability
Building a 1,002-foot tower on a sliver of Manhattan real estate only 85 feet wide isn’t just ambitious—it’s an engineering marvel that’s unfolding before our eyes at 520 Fifth Avenue New York. The construction team has acceptd these challenges with innovative solutions that blend cutting-edge technology with time-tested building methods.
The narrow footprint demanded creative thinking from day one. Suffolk Construction implemented specialized formwork and a custom shoring system that provides crucial support for both the core and façade during the building process. To maximize efficiency on this tight site, they’re using jump-forms—an ingenious self-climbing formwork system that allows the concrete work to progress vertically without constant crane assistance, maintaining precision while speeding up construction.
Safety remains paramount at this busy Midtown location. Modifiable protection screens have been installed that move upward as construction progresses, creating secure work environments regardless of weather conditions while protecting pedestrians passing by on Fifth Avenue. These screens have proven invaluable during concrete placement, significantly reducing field assembly time while enhancing both worker and public safety.
Perhaps the most visually striking aspect of 520 Fifth Avenue New York is its terracotta curtain wall—a technical achievement that marries old-world craftsmanship with modern building science. These glazed terracotta panels form the signature arched windows that define the building’s distinctive aesthetic. Installing them requires exceptional precision, as each panel must align perfectly while accommodating the tower’s subtle spiraling setbacks that create the building’s neat twist as it rises.
When a building reaches supertall status, wind becomes a formidable adversary. The engineering team has addressed this through multiple strategies. The setback design isn’t just for show—it serves a critical engineering purpose by disrupting wind flows to reduce structural loads. Inside the building, sophisticated damping systems work silently to manage building movement during high winds, ensuring comfort for residents even on the highest floors.
Despite its luxury positioning, sustainability hasn’t taken a backseat at 520 Fifth Avenue New York. The project is targeting both WELL and LEED certifications, integrating green building practices throughout. Energy recovery systems capture and repurpose waste heat, high-performance glazing minimizes solar heat gain while maximizing natural light, and efficient mechanical systems reduce the building’s overall carbon footprint.
Managing construction logistics in one of the world’s busiest neighborhoods presents its own challenges. The team has implemented careful coordination of deliveries, strategic staging of materials, and thoughtful traffic management to minimize disruption to the neighborhood. This attention to detail has helped maintain pedestrian and vehicular flow around the site while keeping the project moving forward on schedule.
As enthusiasts of thoughtful urban development at RNR Cannabis Dispensary, we appreciate how 520 Fifth Avenue New York demonstrates that even on the tightest Manhattan sites, innovative engineering and construction techniques can create extraordinary buildings that respect their surroundings while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Why 520 Fifth Avenue Matters to Midtown & You
When you stand at the base of 520 Fifth Avenue New York and look up, you’re witnessing more than just an architectural marvel—you’re seeing the future of Midtown Manhattan taking shape. This stunning tower represents a vote of confidence in the neighborhood’s continued evolution as a world-class destination for living, working, and experiencing the best of New York City.
The location couldn’t be more perfect. Just a short stroll west and you’ll find yourself in the leafy oasis of Bryant Park, where office workers and residents alike can enjoy a peaceful lunch break or weekend relaxation. Head northwest a few blocks and you’ll feel the electric energy of Times Square washing over you. And to the east, the historic grandeur of Grand Central Terminal awaits, connecting you to the entire metropolitan region.
520 Fifth Avenue New York isn’t just occupying space in Midtown—it’s actively contributing to its renaissance. Fifth Avenue has faced challenges in recent years with fluctuating retail occupancy, but this mixed-use development brings fresh vitality to the corridor. By blending luxury residences, boutique offices, and street-level retail under one roof, the tower creates a 24/7 ecosystem that keeps the neighborhood buzzing with activity at all hours.
For neighboring property owners, there’s good news too. High-quality developments like 520 Fifth Avenue typically have a halo effect, lifting property values throughout the area. The influx of affluent residents and prestigious businesses creates demand for upscale restaurants, boutiques, and services—a rising tide that lifts all boats in the local economy.
As cannabis enthusiasts ourselves at RNR Cannabis Dispensary, we appreciate how thoughtful urban development improves city life. While our Bushwick location offers a different kind of premium experience—blending curated cannabis products with art and community engagement—we recognize the importance of architectural landmarks in defining neighborhood character and creating vibrant urban spaces.
One of 520 Fifth Avenue’s greatest assets is its exceptional connectivity. The building sits near a transportation goldmine, with access to multiple subway lines including the B, D, F, M, 7, 4, 5, 6, and the Grand Central Shuttle. This transit-rich location means residents can easily explore all five boroughs, while office tenants benefit from a talent pool that extends throughout the metropolitan area.
When you visit our Dispensary Downtown Brooklyn location, you’ll find we’ve chosen our location with similar care—prioritizing accessibility and neighborhood energy, just as the developers of 520 Fifth Avenue New York have done. Both spaces, in their own ways, contribute to the changing mix of New York City’s unique urban landscape.
For those interested in experiencing the finest cannabis products while visiting Midtown, our curated selection of premium cannabis products offers the perfect complement to a day exploring the architectural wonders of Fifth Avenue. After all, appreciating New York’s magnificent buildings is an experience that can be improved by the right cannabis product enjoyed responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions about 520 Fifth Avenue New York
What transportation options are nearest the tower?
520 Fifth Avenue New York sits at the center of Manhattan’s transportation network, making it incredibly accessible from anywhere in the city or surrounding regions.
Just steps from the front door, you’ll find the B, D, F, and M subway lines at the 42nd Street-Bryant Park station, only a block west. The 7 line also stops at 5th Avenue-Bryant Park station, providing quick access to the west side. Need to head uptown or downtown? The 4, 5, and 6 lines at Grand Central Terminal are just three blocks east, along with the convenient Grand Central Shuttle that connects directly to Times Square.
For commuters from outside Manhattan, Grand Central Terminal offers Metro-North Railroad service to Westchester and Connecticut. The terminal will soon connect to Long Island via the East Side Access project, making 520 Fifth Avenue even more accessible for suburban residents.
While the building features a private porte-cochère for residents arriving by car, the exceptional public transit options might make car ownership unnecessary for many. That said, numerous parking garages dot the surrounding blocks for visitors and office tenants who prefer to drive.
How many residences and offices are in the building?
The vertical community at 520 Fifth Avenue New York offers a thoughtfully balanced mix of living and working spaces within its slender silhouette.
The residential portion features 100 carefully designed condominiums spanning floors 42 through 88. These homes range from intimate one-bedroom layouts to expansive four-bedroom residences, with the most premium units—including spectacular full-floor penthouses—crowning the upper levels.
Below the residences, 25 full-floor office spaces occupy floors 4 through 28. Each office floor provides between 6,000 and 12,000 square feet of column-free space with generous 12+ foot ceiling heights. This boutique office configuration is surprisingly rare in Midtown, where larger floor plates typically dominate the market.
At street level, approximately 3,500 square feet of retail space features dramatic 40-foot ceiling heights in the entry foyers, creating an impressive Fifth Avenue presence. The second level houses the exclusive Moss private members club, complete with a restaurant, bar, and sophisticated lounge areas.
Together, these components create a true “vertical village” of approximately 415,000 to 450,000 square feet where living, working, and socializing exist in perfect harmony within a single address.
Does the project include sustainability certifications?
Yes! 520 Fifth Avenue New York aims to be as environmentally responsible as it is beautiful, pursuing both LEED and WELL Building Standard certifications.
The LEED program evaluates the building’s overall environmental performance, from energy efficiency to water conservation. While the specific certification level (Silver, Gold, or Platinum) hasn’t been announced, the building incorporates numerous green features:
- High-performance glazing that maximizes natural light while minimizing heat gain
- State-of-the-art energy-efficient mechanical systems
- Water-saving fixtures throughout all spaces
- Responsibly sourced materials with preference for local and recycled content
- Improved indoor air quality measures
The WELL Building Standard takes a different approach, focusing specifically on how the building affects human health and wellbeing. 520 Fifth Avenue supports this through:
- Advanced air filtration systems that deliver exceptional indoor air quality
- Abundant natural light through the building’s signature arched windows
- Dedicated fitness facilities that encourage regular physical activity
- Biophilic design elements that create a connection to nature
- Careful acoustic engineering to minimize noise stress
These aren’t just marketing buzzwords—these sustainability features deliver tangible benefits to residents and office tenants while reducing the building’s environmental footprint. In today’s luxury market, this combination of environmental responsibility and wellness focus represents an essential component of truly forward-thinking design.
Who is handling sales and leasing at 520 Fifth Avenue?
The prestigious Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group is managing condominium sales at 520 Fifth Avenue New York. They’ve established an neat sales gallery directly across the street at 521 Fifth Avenue, where prospective buyers can experience the finishes, views, and layouts firsthand.
Since the official sales launch in April 2024, interest has been robust, with prices starting at $1.7 million for one-bedroom residences. The sales team reports particularly strong interest from domestic buyers seeking a sophisticated Manhattan pied-à-terre and international purchasers looking to establish a New York presence.
For the office component, global real estate services firm JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle) is handling leasing efforts. Their marketing highlights the rare opportunity for companies to occupy distinctive full floors with soaring ceilings and flexible, column-free layouts at one of Fifth Avenue’s most prestigious addresses. Financial services firms, family offices, tech companies, and creative businesses are showing particular interest in these unique spaces.
While specific details about the retail leasing haven’t been announced, the prime Fifth Avenue frontage will likely attract luxury brands that complement the corridor’s reputation for world-class shopping.
What makes 520 Fifth Avenue different from other luxury towers in Midtown?
In a skyline increasingly defined by glass boxes, 520 Fifth Avenue New York stands apart through its thoughtful blend of innovation and tradition.
First, while many recent towers accept sleek modernism, 520 Fifth Avenue draws direct inspiration from New York’s architectural heritage. Its distinctive terracotta façade and arched windows create a visual dialogue with beloved Beaux-Arts landmarks like the New York Public Library and Grand Central Terminal. This design approach honors Midtown’s character while adding a fresh contemporary voice.
Second, the building creates a genuine vertical community through its mixed-use program. Rather than functioning as just a residential tower or office building, it weaves together luxury homes, boutique workspaces, the exclusive Moss club, and street-level retail to create a vibrant, 24-hour environment.
Third, the amenity strategy places the most spectacular spaces—including the breathtaking glass-walled solarium—at the very top of the building. This ensures all residents enjoy the phenomenal views, rather than reserving the highest floors exclusively for the most expensive penthouses.
Finally, the building’s engineering represents a remarkable achievement. Rising 1,002 feet from a lot only 85 feet wide creates residential layouts with abundant natural light and multiple exposures, offering a different living experience than towers with deeper floor plates.
At RNR Cannabis Dispensary, we appreciate thoughtful design that creates unique experiences. Just as we’ve crafted our Bushwick location to blend premium cannabis products with art and community engagement, 520 Fifth Avenue reimagines luxury urban living through its distinctive architecture and carefully considered programming.
