Edge in Hudson Yards is Designed for Sky-High Views Indoors and Out
As its name suggests, Edge in Manhattan’s Hudson Yards offers a new precipice from which to take in the city’s skyline—rising just over 1,100 feet in the air. But experiencing Edge, which opens to the public March 11, starts well before reaching the sky-high observation deck.
The building’s interiors, designed by Rockwell Group, keep visitors engaged throughout the journey to the top—or floor 100 of 30 Hudson Yards by KPF—weaving a narrative around every curve and corner that details its evolution from a train yard to a modern urban community. At a dedicated queuing area on level 4 of the tower, guests encounter an 80-foot-long map of Manhattan stretching across the ceiling with lights activating various neighborhoods accompanied by an audio narrative and soundscape.
The experiential journey continues throughout the queuing line, created by LAB at Rockwell Group, which includes a digitally immersive caisson forest—a tribute to the nearly 300 caissons keeping Hudson Yards aloft—outfitted with materials that reflect patterns found in nature. Next comes a dark, reflective tunnel depicting scenes from the building’s construction, complete with visuals of incoming trains, followed by a well-lit area that spotlights an actual tree (rather than a caisson reimagined as one). Signage along the path notes the tower’s sustainable features, such as rain water capture and smart fans that filter external air.
While the outdoor observation deck, which features a 225 square foot glass floor and a stadium seating rest area, is the clear draw, the tower’s interiors are just as appealing, albeit a bit more subtle. The palette of subdued grays and steel blends seamlessly with materials used in the external observation deck, while enabling 360 degree views of Manhattan to remain the focal point throughout the space. At the same time, the core interior wall, which features polished stainless steel, invites the outdoors in by reflecting the sky’s hues from sunrise to sunset. Even the restrooms at Edge, which is entirely wheelchair accessible, feature reflective doors, surrounding guests with views.
One floor above the observation deck, sits Peak—a stately restaurant, bar, and event space that hints of a bygone era despite its relaxed contemporary environment. Peak, like Edge, aims to reflect the city surrounding it; the restaurant’s signature cocktails feature New York state spirits, as well as a selection of local craft beers and wine, to accompany its modern American menu.
As Edge gears up to open to the public, staff is taking extra precautions given concerns surrounding the coronavirus, including: additional surface wipe downs; lower density elevator rides; and readily available hand sanitizer. Edge will be open from 8 a.m. to midnight; tickets are required for entry.
