The New York Life Building, an iconic skyscraper in Manhattan’s skyline, has recently undergone a meticulous roof tile regilding, revitalizing its already distinguished presence. The building, renowned for its steep, pyramid-shaped golden roof, is one of the most recognizable landmarks of New York City.
A Brief History
Completed in 1928, the New York Life Building stands as a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture. It was designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert, and constructed between 1926 and 1928 as the new headquarters for the New York Life Insurance Company. The building rises 40 stories and sits prominently at 51 Madison Avenue, on the northern edge of Madison Square Park. With its intricate Gothic details and imposing limestone façade, the building’s design reflects the grandeur and ambition of the early 20th century.
The crowning glory of the New York Life Building is its gilded roof, made up of over 25,000 individual gold-leafed terracotta tiles. This dazzling feature not only distinguishes the building from its peers but also continues to serves as a symbol of the financial stability and prestige of the New York Life Insurance Company. The octagonal, pyramid-shaped dome was originally constructed using gold leaf on a copper base, which corroded over time. It was replaced in 1966 with clay roof tiles that were leafed in 22-karat gold and produced by the Ludowici Roof Tile company. The dome was restored again in 1995 to mark the 150th anniversary of the company. In 1978, the building was designated a National Historic Landmark and in 2000 as a New York City Historic Landmark.
The Regilding Project
The recent regilding project was part of a broader effort to preserve and maintain the building’s historic integrity. Over time, the gold leaf on the tiles had weathered and dulled, diminishing the roof’s striking appearance. The restoration involved the careful removal, cleaning, and regilding of each tile, ensuring that the roof would once again shine as brightly as it did when the building first opened its doors nearly a century ago.
For months, EverGreene’s skilled artisans applied new layers of gold leaf to all tiles, adhering to traditional methods, precision application, and attention to detail. New clay roof tiles were meticulously gilded using Manetti 23.75 karat Rosenoble 22 gram gold leaf. Select touch-ups were performed on-site after their installation.
The regilding of the New York Life Building’s roof is a testament to the enduring legacy of New York City’s architectural heritage. As the building continues to serve as the headquarters for the New York Life Insurance Company, it also remains a symbol of the city’s ever-evolving skyline—a blend of historic grandeur and modern ambition.
