Gotham Noir #architecture #architect #albertledner #albert_c_ledner #nyc #newyork #newyorkcity #manhattan #chelsea #nationalmaritimeunion #curranannex #redesign #handel #handelarchitects #dreamhotel #hotel #highline #facade #stainless #steel #metal #tile #round #pothole #window #mono #drama #notnight #fori415_series_gotham_noir A fascinating story of whimsical nautically themed modernism adapted and reinforced as a contemporary hotel. Albert C. Ledner, the original architect of the building was an acolyte of Frank Lloyd Wright. Originally designed as an annex and dormitory for sailors in the National Maritime Union (and directly adjacent to the New York Port Authority) Ledner designed the 11 story International Style building with over 100 5-foot diameter porthole windows and a sloping from-ground-to-roof facade as both an iconic element and in response to street setback requirements of the 1960’s. Subsequently redesigned by Handel Architects (who’s many other notable designs include the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in NYC), the maritime porthole fenestration was celebrated and used as a consistent thematic element of the luxury Dream Hotel Midtown. Further embellishment includes a stainless tile rain screen on the street and courtyard facades. Albert’s daughter Catherine undertook the project of archiving and documenting her fathers work, ultimately producing a documentary film “Designing Life: The Modernist Architecture of Albert C. Ledner” in 2017. It is bittersweet to note that Albert passed away in November 2017 just 10 days after visiting his building again, for the debut of his daughters film and hosted at the renovated Dream Hotel. RIP Mr. Ledner (at Dream Downtown) https://www.instagram.com/p/BwELDSjHcl5/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=w2g791hiqhqp