What Art Deco architect designed the Chrysler Building?

William Van Alen designed New York City’s Chrysler Building in the Art Deco style.

Van Alen was hired in 1927 for a proposed skyscraper on Lexington Avenue and 42nd Street. Walter Chrysler later took over the project and worked with Van Alen on a taller, more dramatic design. Completed in 1930, the tower rises 1,046 feet, including its distinctive stainless-steel spire.

The building’s crown, sunburst patterns, eagle gargoyles, and automobile-inspired ornaments express the machine-age optimism associated with Art Deco. Its height also made it part of a famous race with 40 Wall Street and the Empire State Building.

A common mix-up is confusing Van Alen with H. Craig Severance, his former business partner, who designed 40 Wall Street. The Chrysler Building is specifically associated with Van Alen, although Walter Chrysler was the client who commissioned and financed the project.