Two designs were proposed. Both designs encase and reclad the existing MSG architectural drum with a new dynamic architectural stylization. The approaches preserve the entire inner workings of New York’s Sports Mecca while catalyzing Madison Square Garden as the centerpiece for the New Empire State Complex. The concepts include removal of MSG’s 5000-seat Hulu Theater on 8th Avenue, to make room for the 4-story iconic glass pavilion entry hall facing the historic Farley Post Office-Moynihan Station.
The new dramatic entry portal, as well as the creation of a ring of glazed entry points around the entire base of MSG, brings new pedestrian retail, dining, access to events and the new proposed public rooftop garden amenity area.
Both designs also have taken great care to visually open the inner workings of the dynamic arena to exude its excitement and energy to the surrounding streets below.
A major part of each scheme was to energize the facades with digital imagery of the events taking place within MSG, 24 hours a day.
The two dynamic design transformations strategies illuminate the powerful yet extremely cost-efficient approach that SPECTOR has taken, that preserves and enhances the existing Madison Square Garden and Penn Station.
