New York City’s Chrysler Building is most associated with the Art Deco architectural style.
Completed in 1930, the tower is celebrated for its geometric ornament, stylized metalwork and distinctive crown. Its stainless-steel spire uses repeating triangular forms that create a sunburst effect, while the exterior includes decorative details inspired by Chrysler automobiles of the period.
The building was designed by architect William Van Alen for Walter Chrysler, founder of the Chrysler Corporation. At 319 metres, including its spire, it became the world’s tallest building when completed, although the Empire State Building surpassed it in 1931.
The Chrysler Building is sometimes confused with New York’s earlier Beaux-Arts skyscrapers because of its monumental scale. Its decoration, however, belongs firmly to Art Deco, a style that emphasized modern geometry, luxury materials and machine-age imagery. The tower’s ornamental eagle gargoyles and automobile-inspired motifs are especially recognizable examples of that approach.