Have you ever looked up at the iconic New York City skyline and wondered about the stories behind its towering giants? Today, we're going to unravel the history of one of its most recognizable landmarks: the MetLife Building. While it might seem like a permanent fixture, this architectural marvel has a fascinating past and a surprising age. So, let's embark on a journey to discover just how old the MetLife Building truly is!
Unveiling the MetLife Building's Age: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Let's Start with a Riddle!
Imagine a building that was once the largest commercial office building in the world, yet faced initial public outcry for its sheer size and impact on the cityscape. It stands proudly over a major transportation hub, and its distinct shape makes it instantly identifiable. Any guesses which building we're talking about? If you guessed the MetLife Building (or perhaps its original name, the Pan Am Building!), you're on the right track! This architectural behemoth has a captivating story, and understanding its age is just the beginning.
Step 2: Pinpointing the Construction Timeline
To determine the age of the MetLife Building, we need to look back at its construction period.
- Laying the Foundation (1959-1960): While the building officially opened in 1963, the groundbreaking and initial construction phases began earlier. The design work started in 1958-1959, and construction officially commenced in 1960.
- Rising to the Sky (1960-1963): The building's impressive 59 stories rose steadily over three years. It was a massive undertaking, utilizing innovative construction techniques for its time.
- Grand Opening (1963): The MetLife Building, then known as the Pan Am Building, officially opened its doors in 1963. This is the key date we use to calculate its age.
Therefore, as of 2025, the MetLife Building is 62 years old.
Step 3: Understanding Its Original Identity: The Pan Am Building
It's crucial to acknowledge that the building wasn't always known as the MetLife Building. Its original name holds a significant place in its history.
- A Symbol of Air Travel: The building was originally constructed as the Pan Am Building, serving as the headquarters for Pan American World Airways, a dominant force in the airline industry at the time. This connection to air travel was even more pronounced by the presence of a rooftop heliport, which operated from 1960 until a tragic accident in 1977 led to its closure.
- Changing Hands, Changing Names: Pan Am eventually faced financial difficulties and sold the building to MetLife (Metropolitan Life Insurance Company) in 1981. Although MetLife acquired the building in 1981, the iconic "Pan Am" sign remained on the building for another decade. It wasn't until 1992 that the building was officially rebranded as the MetLife Building, and the distinctive "MetLife" logo replaced the Pan Am signage.
Step 4: Architectural Vision and Controversy
The MetLife Building's age is tied to a specific era of architectural design.
- International Style Icon: Designed by a collaborative team including Emery Roth & Sons, with Richard Roth as lead architect, in association with renowned architects Walter Gropius and Pietro Belluschi, the building is a prime example of the International Style. This style, prevalent in the mid-20th century, emphasized functionality, clean lines, and a lack of ornamentation.
- A Controversial Landmark: Despite its architectural significance, the building faced considerable criticism upon its completion. Its massive, monolithic presence and its perceived disruption of the Park Avenue vista generated strong opinions, including from figures like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. It was a bold statement, undeniably changing the urban fabric of Midtown Manhattan. However, over time, it has become an accepted and even celebrated part of the city's skyline, eventually achieving the status of a National Historic Landmark.
Step 5: Location and Significance
The MetLife Building's location is integral to its history and purpose.
- Above Grand Central Terminal: A remarkable aspect of the MetLife Building's construction is its placement directly above two underground levels of train tracks that lead into Grand Central Terminal. This engineering feat required a robust steel superstructure encased in reinforced concrete. The building's lobby also conveniently connects to Grand Central Terminal via a pedestrian walkway, highlighting its integration with the city's transportation network.
- A Hub of Commerce: From its inception, the building was designed for commercial and office space. It quickly became a significant hub for businesses in Midtown Manhattan, a role it continues to fulfill today.
Step 6: Modern Day MetLife Building
Even at 62 years old, the MetLife Building remains a vibrant and active part of New York City.
- Ongoing Adaptations: Like many historic structures, the MetLife Building has undergone several restoration and modernization efforts over the years to ensure its continued functionality and relevance. These include significant works in 1987, 2002, and 2022.
- Current Ownership: The building is currently owned by The Irvine Company, demonstrating its continued value as a prime commercial property.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the MetLife Building
How to calculate the MetLife Building's age?
To calculate the MetLife Building's age, you take the current year and subtract its completion year. Since it was completed in 1963, as of 2025, it is 62 years old.
How to identify the MetLife Building in the NYC skyline?
The MetLife Building is easily recognizable by its distinctive octagonal massing (elongated octagonal shape) and its location directly north of Grand Central Terminal. Its sheer size and the prominent "MetLife" sign on its upper façade also make it stand out.
How to learn about the MetLife Building's original name?
The MetLife Building's original name was the Pan Am Building, reflecting its initial purpose as the headquarters for Pan American World Airways.
How to understand the MetLife Building's architectural style?
The MetLife Building is a prime example of the International Style, characterized by its simple, unadorned facades, emphasis on geometric forms, and often, the use of glass and steel.
How to appreciate the MetLife Building's design?
To appreciate its design, consider its functionality, its innovative engineering built over active train tracks, and its bold, albeit controversial, departure from traditional architectural styles of its time. It represents a significant moment in modern skyscraper design.
How to visit the MetLife Building?
While the MetLife Building is primarily an office building, its lobby is accessible to the public, offering a glimpse into its grand interior. It is conveniently located directly above Grand Central Terminal, making it easily accessible via subway, bus, and train.
How to research the MetLife Building's history?
You can research its history through architectural archives, historical societies, books on New York City architecture, and online resources that detail the history of significant skyscrapers. Looking into the history of Pan Am Airways also provides valuable context.
How to know the MetLife Building's height?
The MetLife Building stands 808 feet (246 meters) tall with 59 stories.
How to recognize the MetLife Building in movies?
The MetLife Building (or Pan Am Building, depending on the film's era) has made numerous appearances in films and TV shows set in New York City, often appearing as a backdrop in establishing shots of the Midtown Manhattan skyline. Its distinct shape makes it easy to spot.
How to discover the MetLife Building's current purpose?
Today, the MetLife Building primarily serves as a commercial office building, housing various businesses, with MetLife (Metropolitan Life Insurance Company) being a major tenant.