Lever House Som Plan - Plansmanage

Lever House: Som Plan

### Introduction Lever House, completed in 1952, stands as a pivotal moment when the traditional 'box' structure was challenged and a revolutionary concept of leveraging available space was introduced. Its architect, Gordon Bunshaft of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), sought to maximize usability and flexibility, creating an architectural gem that reshaped our understanding of office spaces. ### Design and Construction The Lever House design consists of two distinct structures: a six-story base and a 21-story tower. The base, made of glass and steel, acts as a transparent pedestal for the tower, offering a stark contrast to the solid aluminum and glass exterior of the tower. The tower itself is a rectangular prism with a distinctive cantilevered design. The north and south sides of the tower project out by 11 feet, giving the building a dynamic, almost ethereal presence. ### Architectural Elements One of the most striking features of the Lever House is its use of glass. Floor-to-ceiling windows span the entire length of the building, providing expansive views for the occupants. This transparency creates a sense of openness and brings the outside world into the interior spaces. The exterior aluminum panels, with their subtle horizontal striations, add a touch of texture and visual interest. The cantilever structure of the tower is not merely an aesthetic choice; it is a testament to the engineering brilliance of the SOM team. The cantilever allows for column-free interior space, maximizing flexibility and creating unobstructed floor plans. This ingenious design enabled tenants to arrange their spaces according to their specific needs, a concept that had rarely been seen in office buildings of the time. ### Significance and Influence The Lever House was a paradigm shift in office architecture. It challenged the notion that office buildings had to be monolithic, windowless structures. Its emphasis on light, transparency, and flexibility set a new standard for office design and quickly became a model for modern office buildings worldwide. The Lever House was also one of the first buildings to integrate art into its design. Sculptures by Alexander Calder and Aristide Maillol grace the building's plaza, contributing to its overall aesthetic and cultural significance. ### Legacy The Lever House remains an iconic landmark and a testament to the transformative power of architecture. Its visionary design has had a profound impact on the way we think about office spaces and has inspired generations of architects and designers. The building's beauty, functionality, and ability to adapt to changing needs have ensured its place as a masterpiece of modern architecture. ### Conclusion The Lever House stands as a symbol of innovation and progress in architecture. Its radical, yet elegant, design challenged conventions and set a new standard for office buildings. As a result, the Lever House has had a lasting impact on the built environment and continues to be admired and studied by architects and architecture enthusiasts worldwide.