title guarantee building all lit up
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I was on Grand Avenue this weekend during the evening and noticed that the Gothic-style tower of the Title Guarantee Building at 5th and Hill is now decked out with a new lighting scheme.
Since move-ins have begun recently at the possibly overpriced building, it makes sense that the owner would choose to make it as attractive as possible.
A glowing crown atop the structure completes the scene from 4th and Grand (pictured above), with the Continental Building, Metro 417 and now the Title Guarantee radiating soft light onto the sidewalks below.
When viewed from the Pershing Square, the exterior illumination amplifies the Holiday lights display in place for the annual ice rink. The timing could not have been better.
Though we’re happy to see any new lighting that highlights historic details, I’m a little disappointed that only the tower (which houses mechanical equipment) was included. I want to see the first 13 floors get a little love, but once the building is filled with residents, lights in the windows should help.
It’s still possible the lighting design isn’t yet complete, so I’ll give it more time. Though the tower lighting is a feat in and of itself.
This follows the relighting of the Union Lofts and other Downtown venues.
Additional TGB lighting can be viewed here.
-Previous coverage: A Peek Inside Title Guarantee Building Lofts
5 comments
Marvelous news. I’ve been looking at that building for ten years wondering when they are going to light up the Art Deco crown. Yeah, the timing with the Pershing Square Ice Rink is perfect. I haven’t seen it for myself. I’ll swing by tonight on the way home.
Another thing I’d add is, looking at the photos, the lighting job looks cheap. I’m no expert, but it doesn’t look quite right. Too bright. Possibly, some different hues of color. Then again, it may be the photo. Capturing light can be tricky.
David,
Your comment made me think, and I agree that it could be done better. If anything, I really wonder why the developer didn’t go with more lighting on the first 13 floors and only went with the tower. Interesting point.
They might not been done yet. I would keep an eye out to see if the lighting is toned down a bit and more lighting is added on the lower floors. Relighting a building after so many years can be tricky so they might tweak it soon (hopefully!). Anyway, another baby step in the right direction.
Was it just me but was the lighting a bit lower a week ago? I saw it lit up but it was soo dark and thought it should be brighter…passing by last nite (after being in NY for a week which makes me see how tiny Downtown really is) its alot brighter. Looks good to me but yes the lower portion should be lit up.
Definitely not the photo. The lighting is way too bright. It is like they’ve got a searchlight on that portion of the building.
I think the best way to light that part of the building would be to have the lights installed inside. The crown of the tower seems as if it were designed for this purpose. Also, some color to the light would improve the effect. Right now, it has the charm of a parking lot. Too bad, given the beauty of the building.