Downtown Doodler: Chrysler Building Doodle

Art Deco supplanted the Beaux Arts style in New York City during the 1920s and ’30s, when the economy was expanding and the stock market was surging (and crashing). Design emphasized elegant decorations, rich color, and dramatic lighting. Buildings almost seemed sculpted, with wild geometric shapes and sleek lines. Many New York City landmarks were born during this dazzling age of architecture and design. The Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, Waldorf Astoria, and Rockefeller Center are all shinning examples of Art Deco. Together they make up part of the New York City skyline we know and love.

Completed in 1930, the Chrysler Building is topped with a seven-story point, sculpted with crescent-shaped tiers and enhanced with windows in the classic Art Deco Sunburst pattern. Architect William Van Alen spent over a month designing the 32 elevators inside. The doors demonstrate an Egyptian influence on Art Deco.

For my doodle I chose to combine these two details, the iconic point and the less recognizable pattern adorning the elevator doors. Though both ornate and different, they blended together well into a chevron pattern that is also popular today.

Also check out author Moses Gates’ recent urban exploration to the top of the Chrysler Building in the video below and stay tuned for our own exploration with Moses!

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