Snarkitecture was commissioned to design a new lobby for 530 Broadway, a historic cast-iron building in SoHo, New York. The intent was to create an entry environment that both contrasts and celebrates the building’s early 20th century character. While the design prioritizes functionality, it was important that the lobby feel more like an art gallery than a traditional office lobby. 

The propositions of the custom door create a memorable entry moment for visitors. The ornamental surface details inside the lobby were restored and painted white, creating a serene backdrop that is aligned with the neutral color and material palette used throughout the space. The large blackened steel desk is lifted off the ground plane and appears to be hand-sculpted. Meanwhile, a corresponding steel volume floats precariously from the ceiling, creating an unexpected moment for building visitors. 

The lobby also features Curtain (2021), a site-specific art installation by contemporary artist and Snarkitecture co-founder, Daniel Arsham. To extend the lobby experience, the corners of the elevator were curved and covered in a custom colorway from the Topographies wallpaper collection, created in collaboration with Calico.