Why Did Building the Chrysler Building Take Longer Than the Empire State Building?

The construction timelines of the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building have puzzled many, with the former taking over two years longer to complete than the latter. This article will explore the reasons behind the discrepancy in the building times of both iconic structures, shedding light on the architectural complexity, design changes, and the race to the skies.

Architectural Complexity and Design Changes: The Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building was constructed between 1928 and 1930, and it stands as the world's tallest brick building with a steel frame. Standing at an impressive 927 feet (282.5 meters), the building boasts a mix of Gothic and Art Deco architectural styles. The design process for the Chrysler Building was marked by several changes and iterations. These modifications, though aesthetically pleasing, substantially slowed down the construction process. Architect William Van Alen initially planned for the building to have a spire of unconventional design, which required additional time for engineering considerations and construction techniques. Once approved, this unique spire became a hallmark of the building, distinguishing it from the more straightforward and streamlined design of the Empire State Building.

The Empire State Building: A Masterclass in Speed

Contrastingly, the Empire State Building, completed from 1930 to 1931, is a prime example of efficient and rapid construction. The Empire State Building was designed with the primary goal of setting a new record for the tallest building in the world. This ambitious project highlighted the advantages of modern manufacturing techniques and industrial efficiency. The construction methods employed for the Empire State Building involved just-in-time deliveries of prefabricated components like sheet steel, which were quickly assembled on-site. This streamlined process minimized the downtime for labor and machinery, resulting in a significantly shorter construction period.

Speed and Profitability: The Empire State Building

One of the key factors contributing to the rapid construction of the Empire State Building was the business model employed by its developers, John J. Raskob and Artur A. Hart. They utilized a just-in-time construction strategy, which allowed them to minimize inventory costs and maximize efficiency. The steel frames and prefabricated sheet materials were delivered directly to the site, ensuring that the work progressed swiftly without unnecessary delays. Additionally, the Empire State Building's design was more straightforward, reducing the complexity and time required for intricate architectural elements.

Chrysler Building's Rapid Return on Investment: An Unforeseen Outcome

Interestingly, despite taking more time to build, the Chrysler Building turned a profit quicker than the Empire State Building. The Gothic and Art Deco style of the Chrysler Building appealed to renters, leading to quicker tenant occupancy rates. By the late 1930s, the building had become a significant source of income for its owner. In contrast, the Empire State Building faced challenges due to its extensive vacancy rates. For years, it was colloquially known as the "Empty State Building," reflecting its struggle to attract tenants, despite its height and fame.

These differences highlight the trade-offs between architectural ambition and efficiency in construction. While the Empire State Building's emphasis on speed and cost-effectiveness allowed it to achieve record-breaking heights, the Chrysler Building's focus on aesthetic complexity led to a longer construction timeline. Both buildings stand as testaments to the ingenuity and creativity of their architects and builders, each in its own unique way.

Conclusion

Understanding the contrasting construction timelines of the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building offers valuable insights into the architectural and business considerations of skyscraper construction in the early 20th century. The Chrysler Building's prolonged construction period and the Empire State Building's record-breaking build time exemplify the diverse approaches taken in pursuit of architectural and business goals. Despite their differences, both structures have become enduring symbols of American engineering and artistry.