626 First Avenue

Construction progress continues at 626 First Avenue, the two tower residential development from JDS Development Group. Designed by SHoP Architects, the 41 and 49 story towers have almost reached the half way mark for superstructure. As the two towers slope towards each other, a bridge will connect them and host an indoor lap pool and lounge as amenities for the residents. The project's signature building envelope features copper cladding on the north and south facades of both towers, equaling 4.25 million pounds of raw copper according to the newly installed construction signage. A glass curtain wall on the east and west facades allow for expansive views of the East River waterfront and the Midtown skyline. The cladding is furthest along on the northwest tower, with glass and copper surpassing the 11th floor. Construction is slated to wrap up on both towers by 2017.

Architects: SHoP Architects; Developer: JDS Development Group; Program: Residential, Retail, Park; Location: Murray Hill, New York, NY; Completion: 2017.