Top of the Rock
New York, NY
GMS provided structural engineering services for this iconic 70-story building with indoor and outdoor observation decks with views of the NYC skyline. The project added entertainment rides to the 69th and 70th floor observation decks, as well as additional architectural features within the building. Our scope of work included designing the reinforcement and modifications of the existing building structure to accommodate the new entertainment rides and support the loads imposed. GMS also performed Special Inspections to ensure work was performed correctly.
“The Beam” was completed and opened to the public at the end of 2023 and features an interactive ride inspired by the iconic 1932 photograph named “Lunch atop a Skyscraper,” which depicts 11 construction workers seated along a steel beam high above 30 Rockefeller Plaza. The ride allows users to recreate the photo by lifting and rotating the riders above the building’s 69th floor for a northern view of the city’s skyline.
Following the arrival of the Beam, “Skylift” opened its doors to the public in October 2024. The Skylift’s substructure has four static guide-posts that are connected to the 70th floor framing at the 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions. With the implemented structure, the circular glass platform rises 30 feet above the roof and rotates itself, providing a panoramic, 360-degree view.
Client: Tishman Speyer
Architect: Montroy DeMarco Architecture
