One Vanderbilt is a modern, glass and masonry-clad commercial supertall tower in the heart of midtown Midtown Manhattan, a rare and important building to open in 2020. As part of the revitalization of the 42nd Street corridor, One Vanderbilt is an energetic space with transit terminals, many new storefronts and beautiful office space in this very commercial district.

Tillotson Design Associates crafted the lighting design for One Vanderbilt from spire to podium. On this tour of the building's lobbies and exterior, Tillotson designers Eduardo Zepeda and Whitney Mire will discuss their process and techniques for making One Vanderbilt shine among its midtown neighbors.

In addition to being cutting edge, the project also speaks to its historic neighbor, Grand Central Terminal, with terra cotta, beige and gold finishes that invoke its warm palette and views that open up to Grand Central’s west façade and the new plaza space between the two buildings. A new icon on the Manhattan skyline, One Vanderbilt’s crown is uniquely illuminated with indirect lighting, creating a dynamic, color-changing, lantern-like effect on the skyline. The spire is the sparkling jewel at the very top that can also color-change and animate in the night sky.