How Tall Can Buildings Really Get?

There’s a constant race to build the tallest structure the world has yet to see. Today’s construction is highly successful and competitive, which makes us wonder: how big can buildings really get? 

The world famous Empire State Building stands 381 meters tall, but humans continue to exceed this height with more extravagant structures. Can you imagine a tower as tall as 1,000 meters high? In just four years, Saudi Arabia plans to create a building this tall, which goes beyond many others we’ve seen.

When does it stop? With such little capacity in cities like New York, it’s no wonder skyscrapers grow more and more over the years. Buildings made before the twentieth century were built on awkwardly shaped plots of land. Today, buildings are designed to be tall to prevent limited space without wasting space. Believe it or not, our limit is far beyond any current structures. A kilometer would be easy - a mile or more is also possible.

What it comes down to is whether or not we actually want a tower taller than the largest mountain in the world. Some architects worry that people will feel unsafe. What are your thoughts on the rise of New York skyscrapers? Let us know on Facebook!

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more. Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information. 

Top 10 Buildings & Skyscrapers in NYC

New York City - home to some of the most incredible buildings in the world. The city’s lit up skyline is breathtaking with all its varying shapes and sizes. Among the most popular skyscrapers is the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center. Here’s a few other highlights:

The Chrysler Building. Built in 1928, this 77-story work of art was named the world’s tallest building until the Empire State Building was created one year later. This masterpiece is so detail oriented from the outside and has an Art Deco ceiling mural. Unfortunately there’s no viewing gallery from the top, but regardless, this building located at 405 Lexington Ave is a not-to-miss!

The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Met is home to the greatest art collections worldwide, and the exterior is just as incredible. This 2 million square foot building features stone slab pyramids, arches, and columns. Not to mention the Grand Staircse, leading from the entrance up to a gallery of European paintings. The classic building still features an entrance from the 19th century, making it a unique sight to see.

Grand Central Terminal. The zodiac mural, the marble walls, and the amazing arches are what makes Grand Central so eye-catching! Check out the Guastavino tile archway and the secret train car and station under the Waldorf-Astoria hotel for historical architecture. Aside from the hustle and bustle of the terminal, it is a truly beautiful building in the heart of New York City.

The New York Public Library. Featuring classic stones, columns, and arches, this New York building an architectural masterpiece. This library is so antique and delicate that it’s been closed off the to public in recent weeks due to a chunk of plaster that cracked and fell from the ceiling in the Reading Room. But you don’t need to look at the inside to admire just how magnificent this building is.

For a full list of the best buildings and skyscrapers in NYC, click here.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more. Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

First Look Inside Battery Park City’s New Super-Sized Condos

The new waterfront Battery Park City building is now ready for NYC residents! Just on the corner of Warren Street stands a luxurious redesign - holding only 169 condos.

With a drastically reduced apartment count, the residences are large. The building’s smallest apartment is still over 1,000 square feet and has two bedrooms. The biggest apartment size holds five bedrooms. From the smallest apartment to the largest one, you’re looking to spend about $2 million to $10 million.

The new designs are finished with hardwood flooring, an eat-in kitchen, lots of natural sunlight, and luxury bathrooms. Add in tall windows overlooking the beautiful Battery Park and you’ve got yourself an apartment worth investing in!

The building’s penthouses have yet to come to market, which will exceed asking prices of $10 million. They will offer private rooftop space with outdoor kitchens. Look for them later this Spring!

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.
Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

Tips for Avoiding Illegally Converted Apartments

Choosing safe and legal living conditions in New York can be tough if you don't know the kind of requirements to look for. To ensure both the safety of yourself and your family, use these tips below for eyeing an illegally converted apartment:

• Educate yourself on market prices. Rent that seems too low for the area in which the building resides could be illegal. 
• Look for certain keywords in postings. "Basement," "attic" and "flex" are all red-flags for conditions that would not provide adequate exit options. "Utilities included" may also be a sign that the landlord does not want another name connected to the property for maximum occupancy reasons. 
• If the address is not disclosed on the listing or mail can not be delivered directly, the landlord is likely afraid to expose the exact location due to illegal features involved. 
• Never rent a room with very small windows or locked doors. Residents should have access to efficient light, escape options, and all available exits. 

As always, New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 if they become aware of unsafe construction conditions. 

Alan Margolin & Associates has been proving engineering services to the New York area for over 30 years. Focusing our craft on special inspection, we are experts in the New York City Department of Buildings' requirements and ensure all construction is built properly and to code. 

Our IAS accreditation is proof that we operate at the highest level of ethical, legal and technical standards. Visit our website for more information on our credentials and a complete list of services we provide. 

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Chapter 33 of the 2014 Construction Code Brings Changes

New provisions have been made in Chapter 33 of the 2014 Construction Codes and training sessions are underway. A total of four training sessions will highlight the following changes made:

Occupant protection plan for office buildings - during long periods of constructions and demolitions, this will ensure the safety of its occupants. 

Fire safety provisions - deep evacuation sites must include standpipes and hoists.

Daily sidewalk shed inspection - either by construction site contractors or building owners, these must now be checked daily to ensure safety and proper lighting. 

Changes to the construction code help to ensure safety for every New Yorker. Learn more about the launch at nyc.gov. 

Alan Margolin & Associates has been proving engineering services to the New York area for over 30 years. Focusing our craft on special inspection, we are experts in the New York City Department of Buildings' requirements and ensure all construction is built properly and to code. 

Our IAS accreditation is proof that we operate at the highest level of ethical, legal and technical standards. Visit our website for more information on our credentials and a complete list of services we provide. 

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.