Upon entry into the security screening queue, a light show is choreographed to provide geographical context within the 80-foot perforated ceiling. The remaining zones tell the story of the many engineering marvels that transformed an active railyard into the vibrant neighborhood it is today. As the elevator ascends, what first appear to be walls ‘fall away’ and the skyline transforms from hand sketches to photorealism, at which point the elevator doors open to real views. The outdoor sky deck is part of 30 Hudson Yards, the tallest building in the neighborhood, designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox.

It rises over 1,100 feet and extends out 80 feet. Unlike many sky decks which are terraces on setbacks, Edge is cantilevered from the side of the building welcoming visitors out into unobstructed views of the skyline and Hudson Yards below, surrounded only by glass, air and sky. Edge’s angled glass, mullion-free panels surrounding the deck invite visitors to lean out into the skyline. Bleacher steps create a perch in the sky. A large glass floor, part of the geometry of the building, puts visitors directly above Manhattan’s bustling streets.

Rockwell Group’s material choices for the Edge’s interior emphasize simplicity and clean lines, conveying modern warmth and optimism.