New York Lipstick Building – Story, Location & Inside Facts

You know those moments when you’re walking through New York and something just makes you stop and stare? That’s exactly what happens when you catch sight of the Lipstick Building on 885 Third Avenue. Its red granite glow and curved shape instantly pull you in. And trust me, it’s not just the color that makes it special — it’s got a story full of design flair, architectural genius, and even a few secrets.

Snippet-Ready Definition:

The New York Lipstick Building at 885 Third Avenue is a 34-story red granite skyscraper known for its curved, lipstick-like shape. It’s a post-modern icon of Manhattan designed by Philip Johnson and John Burgee.

Mission Statement:

Our mission is to share the stories, design brilliance, and cultural importance of New York’s architectural landmarks. By offering authentic insights and real-world details, we aim to help readers appreciate how art, history, and urban life come together in the city’s skyline.

Where Is the Lipstick Building Located? (New York Lipstick Building Address)

If you’re wandering around Midtown East, you can’t miss it. The Lipstick Building stands proudly at 885 Third Avenue, between 53rd and 54th Streets. It’s right in the business heart of Manhattan, surrounded by glass towers, cafes, and constant movement. The neighborhood buzzes with energy — bankers grabbing coffee, tourists snapping photos, and locals rushing to the subway.

Here’s the thing, the location is more than just convenient. Being near landmarks like the Citigroup Center, Bloomingdale’s, and Park Avenue puts it in one of the most valuable real-estate zones in the world. If you hop on the E or M train and get off at 53rd Street, you’ll find yourself right beside it. From there, you can see how its elliptical design slices through the boxy skyline like a red-tinted sculpture.

Why It’s Called the “Lipstick Building”

The nickname pretty much gives it away. Once you see the building, you’ll get it immediately — it really does look like a giant lipstick tube standing upright in the middle of Manhattan. The smooth curves, the pinkish-red granite, the stainless-steel accents — all come together to create that cosmetic look.

The design came from two architectural legends, Philip Johnson and John Burgee. They were masters of post-modern style, adding personality and humor to otherwise serious office towers. When it opened in 1986, people were divided. Some thought it was playful and bold, others thought it looked funny. But today, it’s a beloved landmark. Honestly, the first time I saw it, I couldn’t unsee the lipstick resemblance — it’s that striking.

Architecture and Design Highlights

Standing 34 stories tall and about 138 meters high, the Lipstick Building plays with geometry in a way that few other skyscrapers do. The shape isn’t purely round — it’s an ellipse, tapering slightly as it rises. Each section pulls back just a bit on the 19th and 27th floors, giving the illusion of a lipstick being twisted open. It’s clever, artistic, and very New York.

The exterior is made from red Imperial granite paired with shiny stainless steel. When sunlight hits in the morning, it glows softly; at dusk, it reflects the city’s neon lights like a mirror. Inside, the lobby continues that theme with marble floors, glass panels, and warm lighting that feels surprisingly elegant for an office tower. Structural engineer Irwin Cantor used a central core system to handle wind loads, so despite its rounded form, the building stands firm even on stormy Manhattan days.

History and Development Timeline

The Lipstick Building rose during the 1980s, an era when Manhattan couldn’t build fast enough. Construction began around 1981 and wrapped up by 1986. Back then, Hines Interests LP developed it with the vision of creating a signature address that mixed fun and function. It was later owned by Tishman Speyer Properties, then SL Green Realty Corp, with several high-value transactions along the way.

Like most New York icons, the building has seen its share of ups and downs. It went through ownership changes, economic shifts, and a few legal headlines, but it never lost its charm. Each decade added another layer to its legacy, proving that architecture with personality can survive any real-estate cycle.

Tenants and Cultural Significance

In its early days, the Lipstick Building hosted law firms, investment companies, and media offices — typical Midtown tenants. But one name forever tied to its story is Bernard Madoff. His investment firm occupied the entire 17th floor, where his infamous Ponzi scheme operated before it all came crashing down in 2008. That scandal gave the building a darker reputation for a while, but over time, its architectural brilliance took center stage again.

Today, the building is home to financial firms, global companies, and creative agencies. Despite its past, it’s seen as a symbol of resilience — a reminder that every city structure carries stories both glamorous and grim. New Yorkers don’t let history define them; they redefine history instead.

Visiting and Touring the Lipstick Building (New York Lipstick Building Tour)

Here’s the thing — it’s an office building, so there’s no official public tour inside. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it up close. The lobby is open during business hours and gives a quick glimpse into its polished interiors. The glass and marble make it feel open and airy, even if you’re just walking through.

If you’re into photography, this spot is a gem. The best shots are from across Third Avenue, especially around golden hour when the light catches the red granite just right. Many visitors pair a stop here with a stroll toward Park Avenue or the MetLife Building. Architecture walks in Midtown often include it — so if you join one, you’ll likely hear it described as “the lipstick that never fades.”

The Building’s Role in New York’s Skyline

In a city full of sharp-edged towers, the Lipstick Building’s curvy silhouette stands out. It’s playful yet elegant, proving that skyscrapers don’t all need to look like boxes. From a distance, its red tone adds warmth to the silver-gray skyline. Closer up, the layered shape feels dynamic, almost like it’s moving upward in motion.

Architecturally, it represents the post-modern era — when designers moved away from rigid modernism and started blending art, humor, and human emotion into steel and glass. It’s not as tall as the Empire State or as famous as the Chrysler Building, but it captures something those icons don’t: a wink, a smile, and a sense of fun.

Practical Information for Tenants and Visitors

If you’re someone looking for prime office space at 885 Third Avenue, the Lipstick Building still ranks among New York’s top Class-A addresses. It offers panoramic city views, energy-efficient systems, and on-site amenities. The design allows for flexible floor layouts that appeal to modern businesses.

For casual visitors, here’s what helps:

• The building is accessible from E, M, and 6 subway lines.
• Nearby, you’ll find cafes, restaurants, and plenty of shopping options.
• Photography is allowed outside, but lobby security may limit camera use inside.

If you want a quiet moment, there’s a small public seating area nearby where you can just sit and watch the Midtown rhythm go by. It’s those little things that make this area feel alive.

Expert Insights and Uncommon Angles

Architectural critics have long debated the Lipstick Building’s message. Some call it a masterpiece of humor in architecture; others find it a bold challenge to corporate uniformity. Engineer Irwin Cantor once said the design was “a perfect balance of art and math,” referring to its elliptical structure that distributes stress evenly without a square footprint.

Guess what? That same unique geometry is what makes its maintenance tricky but rewarding. Each floor has different dimensions, so cleaning crews and window-maintenance teams use custom rigs. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes details that show how much thought went into every inch.

Looking ahead, real-estate experts predict the building will remain an attractive property. Its mix of personality and prime location ensures it’s not going anywhere. Even decades from now, it’ll probably still be known by the same nickname everyone loves.

A Closer Look at the Lobby and Public Spaces

The moment you step inside, the lobby feels like a modern art piece. Warm marble floors, bronze accents, and mirrored panels reflect the constant movement of people. There’s a steady hum of business — footsteps, elevator chimes, and the faint echo of conversation bouncing off the walls.

On top of that, it manages to balance luxury and simplicity. You don’t feel overwhelmed, just impressed. The lighting design softens the granite tones, and the space feels more like a boutique hotel than a corporate lobby. That’s the kind of detail Philip Johnson was famous for — creating emotion through structure.

Zoning and Urban Planning Influence

New York’s strict zoning laws helped shape the building’s tiered form. The city requires tall structures to step back after certain heights to let sunlight reach the streets below. Instead of fighting those rules, Johnson and Burgee embraced them, turning necessity into art. The result? A building that meets regulations but looks like it’s blooming skyward.

It’s a perfect example of how great architecture often emerges from working within limits. The Lipstick Building isn’t just about looks; it’s about solving problems creatively — something every New York architect knows too well.

Investment and Ownership Value Over the Years

From the 1980s real-estate boom to today’s market, the Lipstick Building has always drawn investors’ eyes. After Madoff’s scandal, property value briefly dipped, but demand bounced back quickly. Its location alone makes it a trophy asset, and each sale has reinforced its reputation as a Midtown classic.

Over the years, institutions like Tishman Speyer and SL Green Realty have managed its upgrades and leasing. Those big names show how valuable the property remains in Manhattan’s ever-changing skyline.

Photographic Guide: Capturing the Lipstick Building

If you love photography, here are a few insider tips:

• Morning light: The east-facing façade glows beautifully before 10 AM.
• Evening glow: Around sunset, the red granite reflects the golden sky — perfect for warm tones.
• Best angles: Try shooting from 53rd Street corner or the pedestrian island on Third Avenue.
• Pro tip: A wide-angle lens helps capture its curves without distortion.

Don’t forget to look up. The layered setbacks look like stacked rings — a detail you only notice when you stand right beneath it.

Bullet Highlights – Fast Facts About the New York Lipstick Building

• Address: 885 Third Avenue, Midtown Manhattan, NYC
• Height: 138 meters / 34 floors
• Built: 1981–1986
• Architects: Philip Johnson and John Burgee
• Nickname origin: Its red curved design resembles a lipstick tube
• Famous tenant: Bernard Madoff’s investment office
• Known for: Post-modern architecture, tiered setbacks, and playful form

Quick Comparison Table: Lipstick Building vs Other NYC Icons

Feature	Lipstick Building	Chrysler Building	Seagram Building
Architectural Style	Post-modern	Art Deco	Modernist
Shape	Elliptical, tiered	Spire-topped	Rectangular, minimalist
Material	Red granite & steel	Brick, chrome, steel	Bronze & glass
Height	34 stories (138 m)	77 stories (319 m)	38 stories (157 m)
Built Year	1986	1930	1958
Designer	Philip Johnson & John Burgee	William Van Alen	Ludwig Mies van der Rohe
Famous For	Lipstick-tube design, Madoff office	Iconic spire	Minimalist elegance

Comparison with Other Iconic NYC Towers

Every building in New York has personality, but the Lipstick Building stands in its own lane. While the Chrysler Building sparkles with Art Deco flair and the Seagram Building exudes minimalist perfection, the Lipstick adds playfulness to the skyline. It’s what makes it unforgettable — not the tallest or flashiest, but easily one of the most charming.

If you’re an architecture lover, it’s worth seeing all three in one afternoon. Start with the Seagram Building on Park Avenue, stroll a few blocks east, and you’ll end up at 885 Third Avenue — where New York’s humor in architecture comes to life.

FAQs About the Lipstick Building

Where is the Lipstick Building located?

It’s at 885 Third Avenue, between 53rd and 54th Streets in Midtown East, Manhattan.

Can visitors tour the inside?

There’s no official tour, but the lobby is open during business hours for brief visits.

Why is it called the Lipstick Building?

Its pink-red granite and curvy shape resemble a giant lipstick tube — hence the name.

Who designed it?

Architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee, with structural engineering by Irwin Cantor.

What’s the Madoff connection?

Bernard Madoff’s investment firm once occupied part of the building before his fraud case came to light.

Is it still occupied today?

Yes, it hosts several major firms and remains a prime Class-A office property in Midtown Manhattan.

Conclusion

So there you have it — the New York Lipstick Building, a structure that proves even in a city of giants, personality still matters. When you walk past it, you can’t help but smile. It’s elegant without being serious, bold without being loud, and timeless without being outdated. That’s what makes it so New York.

If you’re ever nearby, stop for a few minutes. Look up, notice the shimmer, and see how it brightens the gray around it. The city’s full of stories, and this building — with its glossy red curves — tells one of the best.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only. Details about access, tours, or tenants may change over time. Always verify current information before visiting or using it for professional reference.