The Smile
ICON #15
The Smile
is That Building Winking at Me? The Smile Charms Harlem
ICON #15
Harlem's newest architectural gem will definitely put a smile on your face. The Smile adds a playful presence to the streetscape of Harlem, New York, its curved facade inviting interaction and its unique texture sparking curiosity. Passersby can't help but be drawn to its cheerful demeanor, and the building's presence has enlivened the surrounding neighborhood. The Smile is a testament to the power of architecture to bring joy and wonder to urban spaces.
The Smile's most striking feature is its dramatically curved facade, a design element that evokes a sense of joy and optimism. The facade's unique texture, reminiscent of the moon's surface, adds a touch of mystique and wonder. This effect was achieved through an innovative process of coloring the stainless steel, resulting in a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Smile fosters a sense of community. Its curved design creates a welcoming space where residents can connect and interact. The building's openness allows sunlight and air to permeate the street, enhancing the urban landscape and promoting a sense of connectivity.
The Smile's most striking feature is its dramatically curved facade, a design element that evokes a sense of joy and optimism. The facade's unique texture, reminiscent of the moon's surface, adds a touch of mystique and wonder. This effect was achieved through an innovative process of coloring the stainless steel, resulting in a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Smile fosters a sense of community. Its curved design creates a welcoming space where residents can connect and interact. The building's openness allows sunlight and air to permeate the street, enhancing the urban landscape and promoting a sense of connectivity.
The building's allure lies not only in its beauty but also in its contribution to the neighborhood. The Smile's legacy will be one of joy, optimism, and the transformative power of design. Its playful presence has breathed new life into the area, reminding us all to embrace the beauty in our surroundings.
The building's allure lies not only in its beauty but also in its contribution to the neighborhood. The Smile's legacy will be one of joy, optimism, and the transformative power of design. Its playful presence has breathed new life into the area, reminding us all to embrace the beauty in our surroundings.
In essence, the Oculus transcends its physical role. It's a timekeeper of tragedy and hope, a showcase of sustainable architecture, and a testament to New York's enduring spirit. Its hidden astronomical secret, enabled by sustainable steel, reminds us that even in our bustling lives, moments of profound connection to our past and future can emerge—supported by the silent strength of innovative, sustainable construction.
Icon
The Smile
Location
NEW YORK, USA
Year of construction
2020
Architect
BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group
Material
Outokumpu Supra 316L/4404 stainless steel was used for the façade
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