The design of Bar SixtyFive at the Rainbow Room reimagines the iconic space while still breathing the Art Deco spirit of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. A faceted ceiling made of glassreinforced gypsum panels was installed in the center of the lounge and restaurant space creating a heightened sense of openness, reminiscent of the room’s history as an open-air sun parlor in 1934. With stunning skyline and sunset views framed by the space’s floor-to-ceiling windows visible from every table in the restaurant, there are no bad seats in the house.

Recessed lights are scattered organically across the perimeter ceiling, imitating the look of stars. Speakers have been seamlessly integrated into the pattern of the perimeter ceiling above, adding to the faceted look while concealing functional AV elements. Faceted Mother of Pearl tabletops parallel the faceted ceiling. High honed, Italian silver travertine piers line the perimeter of the space, while the window facia are composed of an artisanal gesso relief in white gold glaze. Signature structural clear glass parapets previously developed for the Top of the Rock Observation Deck were included in the design of the terrace, creating a cohesive exterior building design throughout 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

This project was awarded the 2017 AIA Institute Honor Award Winner in Interior Architecture and achieved LEED Silver Certification.

Photography by Paul Warchol.