I’m working now from an office on the twenty-eighth floor of a building on Forty Second Street just west of Fifth Avenue.  From the south-facing window I can see a bit of Bryant Park and beyond that, mid-block on 40th Street, the American Standard Building (formerly the American Radiator Building and now the Bryant Park Hotel).  Built by Raymond Hood and Andre Foulihaux in 1924, it’s been overshadowed by its taller, younger and prettier neighbor, the Empire State Building.

From the sidewalk the Standard Building’s elaborate stonework and gilt are dank and oppressively fancy.  But from the office window the building seems stately and finely dressed.  It’s gold-tipped crown captures light on even the dreariest mornings.  Like many first generation skyscrapers, it was meant to be seen from above and afar.