7 World Trade Center

7 World Trade Center in New York, completed in 2006, was the first tower to be rebuilt after 9/11. It marks the entrance to the renewed World Trade Center, reconfirming the vitality and business leadership of Lower Manhattan.

The 52-storey tower rises to 226.5m and comprises three main elements: a sharply angled main body with a transparent glass envelope; a podium clad in stainless-steel panels; and a radiant blue block that creates a visual link between the podium and glass tower.

Brand: Permasteelisa North America

Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM)

Collaborating architect: James Carpenter Design Associates (JCDA)

Contractor: AECOM Tishman

Owner & developer: Silverstein Properties

The project

The concept

A key part of the vision for 7 World Trade Center was to maximise light in the Manhattan streets. The reflective surface of the transparent, crystalline façade collects and diffuses light, creating a functional, yet spectacular tower that stands out from the surrounding traditional skyscrapers.

What did we do?

We designed, engineered, manufactured and installed 51,600 sqm of curtain wall, with an additional 5,200 sqm of stainless steel cladding for the podium area, and 420 sqm cable-net glass wall and interior lobby elements. In total, we provided 9,000 customised, unitised façade units.