Empire State Building
“The Project Dream”
New York, New York
Project Size: 75,000 square feet
Designers: Thinc Design
An iconic make-over
In 2018, kubik maltbie completed an initial scope of work for a multi-phased reimagining of the visitor experience at the Empire State Building, known as “Project Dream.” The project is part of an ambitious decade long Empire State Re-Building project with the first phase to be completed by the end of 2019. This project reconfigured the entry level of the building where visitors queue to access the top floors featuring a two-story model of the building as a highlight of the space. Exhibits include “Building an Icon” which details and explains the original construction of the 102-story Art Deco skyscraper, as well as pop culture impressions of the building through Hollywood movies such as King Kong. The “Elevator Experience” provides visitors with a simulation of the experience of a ride to the top of the building.
Paying homage to America’s historic craftsmen
kubik maltbie was tasked with working with the project team in a pre-construction role to develop budgets and provide technical guidance and scheduling. Craftsmen and engineers at the New Jersey fabrication facility conducted production reviews throughout the fabrication phase of the project, ensuring mock-ups were produced for review during the development phase, along with samples and material finishes for each of the components. Key contributions to the overall project included the celestial ceiling at the entrance of the building, the two-story model, and curved model backdrop, digital wayfinding, monitor enclosures, and a green room with graphics. kubik maltbie also created lightboxes featuring images that celebrate the Empire State Building’s unmistakable character and landmark status in New York. In addition, the kubik maltbie team was also responsible for designing the building model, podium, cases, and switch for the lighting ceremony area. The entire scope of work required the highest level of “fit and finish” in line with the craftsmanship of the base building. The final phase of the project is “Dare to Dream” located on the 80th floor.