AT&T Building

Definition

The AT&T Building, now known as the Sony Building, is a landmark skyscraper in New York City designed by architect Philip Johnson and completed in 1984. It is known for its distinctive postmodern architecture, characterized by its Chippendale-style top and massive scale, which signifies a departure from modernist ideals and embraces historical references in design.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AT&T Building's design was groundbreaking for its time, as it introduced a mix of historical references with modern materials and construction techniques.
2. The building's top features a large, curved cornice that mimics the design of 18th-century furniture, representing a key example of postmodern architecture's embrace of ornamentation.
3. Philip Johnson collaborated with designer John Burgee on the project, emphasizing that buildings should express their identity through both form and style.
4. The AT&T Building has been recognized for its influence on urban landscapes and has inspired numerous postmodern designs worldwide.
5. After being sold to Sony in 1992, the building underwent renovations and has continued to be an iconic part of New York City's skyline.

Review Questions

• How does the design of the AT&T Building illustrate key principles of postmodern architecture?
  • The AT&T Building illustrates key principles of postmodern architecture through its use of historical references and ornamentation. Its distinctive Chippendale-style top is a clear departure from modernist simplicity and embraces complexity in design. This approach reflects postmodernism's emphasis on eclecticism and the blending of different styles to create a unique architectural identity that communicates cultural narratives.
• Discuss Philip Johnson's role in the development of postmodern architecture with specific reference to the AT&T Building.
  • Philip Johnson played a pivotal role in the development of postmodern architecture, particularly through his work on the AT&T Building. His vision for this skyscraper involved incorporating classical design elements into a modern context, showcasing a shift from modernism's stark minimalism to a more expressive architectural language. By designing a building that featured elaborate ornamentation and historical allusions, Johnson challenged conventional notions of what contemporary architecture could be.
• Evaluate the impact of the AT&T Building on urban architecture and its legacy in contemporary design practices.
  • The AT&T Building significantly impacted urban architecture by redefining how skyscrapers could incorporate stylistic diversity and historical references. Its successful blend of form and function inspired architects to explore creative expressions beyond modernist constraints. The building's legacy continues to influence contemporary design practices, encouraging architects to embrace complexity, narrative, and context in their projects while reshaping urban environments worldwide.

Related terms

Postmodernism: An architectural movement that emerged in the late 20th century as a reaction against the principles of modernism, emphasizing eclectic styles, ornamentation, and historical references.

Philip Johnson:

An influential American architect who played a significant role in both modernist and postmodern architecture, known for his work on the AT&T Building and the Glass House.

Chippendale Style: A design style named after the English cabinetmaker Thomas Chippendale, characterized by elaborate ornamentation and curved lines, which is reflected in the AT&T Building's distinctive roofline.