Inside The Glowing Theater Opposite The 9/11 Memorial | Unique Spaces | Architectural Digest

Today Architectural Digest travels to Lower Manhattan to tour the newly completed Perelman Performing Arts Center. An integral part of the new World Trade Center site, architects Joshua Ramus and David Rockwell were eager to give the arts a new home in the area. Ramus calls the building a “mystery box” as the theater’s 3 auditoria ingeniously extend and combine to create over 62 stage-audience configurations, resulting in a different space each time you visit. But what makes this building so special is revealed at dusk when the chandeliers shine through its 5,000 marble tile exterior, causing it to glow. As this unique space finally opens its doors, the ultimate hope for Perelman is to inspire artists to create profound work-in turn inspiring the public.
Water's Echo (2023) by Jean Shin jeanshin.com/w...
World Trade Center Viewing Platform, photo by Blandon Belushin
Imagination Playground at Burling Slip, photo by Frank Oudeman
Director: Alice Roth
Director of Photography: Ben Dewey
Editor: Alex Mechanik
Talent: Joshua Ramus ; David Rockwell
Producer: Chase Lewis
Field Producer: Joel Ahumada
Associate Producer: Chloe Leung
Field Associate Producer: Brandon Fuhr
Production Manager: Melissa Heber
Production Coordinator: Fernando Davila
Camera Operator: Lauren Pruitt
Gaffer: Carlos Araujo
Audio Engineer: Gabe Quiroga
Production Assistant: Rachel Cantor
Post Production Supervisor: Andrew Montague
Post Production Coordinator: Holly Frew
Supervising Editor: Christina Mankellow
Assistant Editor: Billy Ward
Colorist: Oliver Eid
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[@fvhaudsilhvdfs]

i respect anybody that chooses "auditoria" as the plural form of "auditorium". this guy is no joke

[@rebahensley5323]

Lol. I noticed, too.

[@limonade2684]

In Latin it is auditoria, but in English auditories. Like one visum and many visa. That is what I learned in Europe.

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@MrPhillyrick1]

@@earth1710awesome!

[@cldn2]

Are you implying Islam is at fault for what we shall never forget?@@earth1710

[@artmaltman]

Why has this not been more in the news? Amazing space.

[@blaze7345]

because its not news

[@dannil9878]

@@blaze7345why is that?

[@ErlingEra]

@@blaze7345bullshit.

[@thevikingbear2343]

Because of the housing crisis, and the new tolls to drive into downtwon manhattan, no one wants to know that their tolls have been used to build this. (The WTC complex belongs to the Port Authority of NY meaning it is all paid by tolls.)

[@thl205]

People only want to hear negative news about the great city of New York 🏙️

[@christinejalandoni5919]

That symmetry of the marble is amazing 🤩

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@NazriB]

Lies again? Ugly Childish USD SGD

[@ABerCul]

Cause it's not all naturally colored.

[@leel2623]

there is an ancient construction technique called marble revetments used in Byzantine churches.

[@danwroy]

the Rorschach Building

[@Miranda50709]

What an incredible achievement. The amount of functionality is amazing, and it's beautiful too. The book-matching on the exterior just shows how much care was put into this design. I also appreciate that they took into account that they are next to the 9/11 Memorial and didn't make anything garish.

[@kimberlyaccurso1921]

I agree & the soft amber light is very warming.

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@petitkruger2175]

@@earth1710 no? just because a building is a cube dosent mean is refrencing The Kabba. If you watched the video you will find out why its actually a cube

[@sazennonumber]

Stunning! During my theatre studies in 2004, I designed a stage that was partially moving up at specific times during the play, which would have dramatically contributed to the story. That never came to fruition, due to us not having pneumatic lifts or any other means to implement the lift. This feature in Perelman Performing Arts Center made me kinda emotional. :) Amazing building and for amazing purpose. Thank you for publishing, AD!

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@mesovogue]

@@earth1710 A cube is a pretty commonly seen shape in the world.

[@mesovogue]

@@oscarsalesgirl296It happens to be a gorgeous and innovative building. ❤

[@earth1710]

@@mesovogue Not my point.

[@GeorgeBreadman]

Such a great building! So aesthetically and practically unique! I love the multi-stage and seating plan options!

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@drsherifff]

​@@earth1710nothing better to do with ur time?

[@earth1710]

@@drsherifff Apply that to yourself.

[@GarbageWithNoPoint]

@@earth1710 We should do the same, then.

[@mesovogue]

@@earth1710 A cube is a pretty commonly seen shape in the world.

[@terrihasstedt5855]

It's a fantastic addition to our NYC, the ability to transform is beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@--------_]

@@earth1710 why do you racists compare islam to 9/11?

[@earth1710]

@@--------_ Because those who crashed those planes were in the religion of Islam you ignorant.

[@oscarsalesgirl296]

it's a big boring monument to indecision

[@vince_c]

Buildings like this are what makes me really love architecture and appreciate the engineering behind them. So much care and thought put into one space. Stunning!

[@oscarsalesgirl296]

it's a big boring monument to indecision

[@kwkwkw370]

The Beinecke Rare Books library at Yale opened in October 1963 and uses marble tiles as well, creating a nice warm light condition inside.

[@rjohn4143]

Exactly - Bunshaft's building was original and exciting 60 years ago - this theater is just a tired rip off

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@citibear57]

It's beautiful, it's multi-functional, and it's a perfect addition to this area. Nice job everyone!

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@oscarsalesgirl296]

it's a big boring monument to indecision

[@mesovogue]

@@earth1710 A cube is a pretty commonly seen shape in the world.

[@mesovogue]

@@oscarsalesgirl296It happens to be gorgeous and innovative

[@joe_s_411]

What a high-quality, classy, beautifully shot video. Well done AD 👏 To the architects themselves… 🙌 Inspired design. Brilliant engineering. A truly worthy effort that will outlive us all.👌

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@EarthWasHere]

@@earth1710what up earth

[@outlanderfrog]

​@@earth1710In that case, so does a rubik's cube.

[@earth1710]

@@outlanderfrog Irrelevant to the context of where this was built.

[@oscarsalesgirl296]

it's a big boring monument to indecision

[@presspound7358]

New York City’s ability to regenerate itself is a large part of its distinction. To create such a stunningly beautiful avant-garde facility in which to showcase art and culture is by all metrics , a “tour de force”. A thunderous standing ovation to all who made this vision a reality. Congratulations 👏 🇨🇦

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@joegordon5117]

Fascinating building, both exterior and the clever, adaptable interior. Would love to just stand there at night to admire it

[@oscarsalesgirl296]

it's a big boring monument to indecision

[@dinodinosaur2930]

🏆 Design Award - Public Building Of The Year 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@orangesparklingwater]

At nighttime, the outside looks stunning

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@BeantownMrs]

I saw this under construction 2 years ago and I was wondering what it was. Thank you for sharing about this remarkable space AD!

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@treym1966]

Ummm ok @@earth1710

[@mesovogue]

@@earth1710 A cube is a pretty commonly seen shape in the world.

[@jakemoeller7850]

The Calatrava structure in the background is a beautiful counterpoint to the cube.

[@glazedbeachbro3926]

Freemasons everywhere

[@kyda__]

I run by this most days on my way to run the westside highway, it’s been amazing watching it progress. To the architects, what a beautiful, inspired, and considered addition to our NYC!

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@blink-oncefeat.multistan1300]

In 10th grade, I did a presentation exam on Ground zero vs. Potsdamer Plaza (Berlin) since both had a hole in the city center and both had masterplans. I talked alot about this cubic building as well. It was in year 2017, over 6 years ago. Happy to see it's brought to life as planned ☺

[@matz4k]

4:19 "So these cylinders grow out of this drum, like magic" architects are a funny bunch 🤣

[@A.C.00]

Me at 4:19 😔🙄

[@tony8074]

That internal perimeter walkway is incredible.

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@arsalanz2214]

What a stunning piece of architecture and the technicalities that allows multiple configurations of the space 👏🏼

[@oscarsalesgirl296]

it's a big boring monument to indecision

[@drumcircler]

A pipe dream for the performing arts in New York! Bravo!!!

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@patvince]

I went to NYC and the WTC site for the first time last year and I instantly fell in love with this building. I'm so glad they made this video so I can appreciate the interior as much as I do the exterior.

[@ettajfan5882]

Beautiful! I sense that warm glow honors the souls lost as a result of that terrible day. Well done!

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@BCJDM]

This is the opposite of The Sphere in Las Vegas ! Both are really cool in different ways

[@lemuelmalik8347]

We need a design like this in MKE's MLK Drive area or Philadelphia's Tioga Nice Town Broad Street area. This design and technology is mesmerizing. This is what urban planners call a destination this changes that Dynamics to these black and brown areas of urban environments that don't have destinations they're just passed through neighborhoods. This is a destination design much needed in those two places that I speak of and love dearly

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@jmchez]

Buildings are not magic. The dirt beneath your feet is not magic. It's the people that inhabit the area that makes a city vibrant or decaying.

[@lemuelmalik8347]

@@earth1710 wow that's an interesting observation and I would concur which makes me love it even more LBVS

[@paillette2010]

it beats the glass boxes that are so popular. It's a warm and beautiful box. Still a box, though.

[@colbystearns5238]

At least it's a more fancy marble box instead of a plain ole' glass one.

[@kitti9969]

This is so beautiful😍 would absolutely love to experience any kind of art and performances here.

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@d.w.1986]

incredibly creative and inspiring - simply amazing - kudos - a wonderful addition to NYC

[@ShellymanStudios]

What an incredible documentary! I love how the building has a mysterious look and feel.

[@alexanderexarchos9210]

a dream of architecture...

[@thenarrativeandwhyyouloveit]

Amazing design. Can’t wait to see it in person.

[@Fan_Of_Film96]

A simple, but handsome structure.

[@TheSushmaHomeSellingTeam]

These kind of buildings are the result of innovative architectural design and advanced construction techniques. The beauty is really obvious. 👏🏼👏🏼

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@chocolateisntpoop]

@@earth1710 we get it lmao

[@earth1710]

@@chocolateisntpoop And who is "we" exaclty?

[@chocolateisntpoop]

@@earth1710 quite literally everyone else who read the other 30 of your same replies lmfao

[@earth1710]

@@chocolateisntpoop I know you want to claim that but you haven't shown that is the case yet, lmfao.

[@kathythompson9931]

I hope The Perelman Performing Arts Center will give tours of this beautiful and fabulous building!

[@leslieseale9761]

So glad I watched this. When I walk by it by day it just looks like a big marble box. Have to go at night!

[@sun1one1]

The best use of natural stone I've ever seen.

[@mesovogue]

This building takes my breath away ❤

[@NathanHarrison7]

Another incredible space. Thank you AD.

[@Lemoncatsf]

Really beautiful. It’s reminding me a bit of the Kaaba. Not only in shape but as it stands out in contrast to its surroundings.

[@noumeermohd.9585]

The design is even more impactful, after understanding the many little details and efforts put into creating this functional masterpiece.

[@judit1783]

Stunning, interesting and , for some reason, it gave me the chills.

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@mfundoh8148]

​@@earth1710 yes! Its a Saturnian Cube next to the 911 memorial which is an inverted/ hollow cube. That's why it's giving off "chills".

[@MusicsObsession]

I love how the marble glows!

[@robertsmith1703]

what a beautiful structure! what a great addition to the neighborhood.

[@learnenglishwithdayamudra704]

Wow. The building as a piece of theater. A building that never fully reveals itself. Spectacular.

[@oscarsalesgirl296]

It was never fully designed 🙃

[@ahamilton4021]

Amazing and thoughtful mastery of light, space, and technology. The collaboration of true professionals is eye watering.

[@kevin_spellman]

I feel that the value of lighting as way-finding is a fantasy of architects.

[@1805movie]

Simple yet elegant.

[@HeyNins]

Beautiful

[@GJMuzyka]

What a beautiful masterpiece!

[@BLacknesmonstaz]

The most ingenious design! Absolutely amazing!!

[@JoelDavid678]

Wowow! Such a beautiful space and video!

[@orvillehenry6479]

A master piece that is beautifully curated.

[@earth1710]

That building looks like the sacred Muslim or Islamic Kaaba of Mecca and it's next to the World Trade Center Memorial.

[@vinceveltri7732]

Truly impressive. Looking forward to visiting.

[@georgekoutsoudopoulos]

The marble skin idea has been done so many times previously, probably most notably by Gordon Bunshaft at the Beinecke Library in 1963...but always welcome as a façade idea.

[@mikejoshua8133]

The cube structure is unique. The build will live up to its expectations. I am overwhelmed with how you were able to build an entrance underneath the cube.

[@jimbox8762]

It’s an amazing performing art space. Since this space is located in lower Manhattan, Lincoln Center has real competition now.

[@ernlwjr2]

It’s an amazing space inside and out!!!

[@kevenquinlan]

Amazeballs. This place is an architectural wet dream. I'm impressed and Love the lit marble.

[@iO-Sci]

That building is serene and advanced :) 저 NYC 빌딩은 고요하고 고급스러워요 :)

[@dt-qh2cj]

Great behind-the-scenes video, Thank you AD and Rex

[@mesovogue]

It is a modern building but it still has poetry, beauty and grace. That is very rare.

[@patterc6]

Magnificent industrial art. Well-done!

[@leonardsteinberg4326]

So beautiful, and even more breathtaking in real life!

[@christianbendtsen12]

Love it

[@just_in_key]

I’m obsessed with that marble facade

[@lulu-cx5dv]

just wow, makes me want to visit NYC and that's a lot for this nature lover.

[@mercedesteagle.]

This is next level!!!! Wow!! 🤍

[@jameshaddan8538]

It looks to be a stunning achievement…well done to the entire team. I cannot wait to see it someday.

[@PEACEKEEPER-mm3js]

I like box shape fit anything. I feel heaven

[@juliacao556]

This video was something so incredibly respectful, peaceful and meaningful. It put my mind at ease while watching and listening

[@lightingnabottle6065]

Exquisite! I have to EXSPERIENCE that space.

[@maomao8739]

SPIRITUAL PLACE

[@svetlanak1043]

What a stunning art center. Human creativity at its best! Bravo!

[@raquelcolon5785]

This makes me so proud to be a New Yorker!!!!

[@anhtu.nguyen]

The marble pattern is great

[@gubijunior]

have a look at the Pius Church in Meggen in Switzerland, its fassade is made quite similarly and has a stunning effect in its interiour.

[@keboonplumeria5266]

Such an interesting place in the heart of New York

[@kathrynbartlett6058]

Spectacular ❤

[@CyberspacedLoner]

I wish the billionaires were as interested in funding public infrastructure !

[@kermitthemutantlevitatingf7836]

that space must sound so cool when you are playing in it

[@samuelculper4231]

Quiet dignity 😂 Umm this building is phenomenally exuberant. No doubt it cost a pretty penny. Well done 👏 The second best use of symmetrical stone slabs I have ever seen next to the state capital of Utah. A stone mason’s paradise 🤤

[@Romalvx]

This place is amazing, it shows the potential of architecture and design of materials in the hands of a creative mind. My respect and congratulations to Mr Ramus. I’ll definitely visit and advise visits to.

[@andrewyb830]

gorgeous

[@Jasona1976]

Simply stunning.....

[@Charmane73]

Wow. I was in the city and actually assumed it was scaffolding. I wish I had been more explorative

[@danielf986]

Everything about this is beautifully done. Everyone involved should be proud.

[@jcarchitecture]

really love that conclusion in the end!

[@Lommy9999]

Incredible.

[@austinzizzi1142]

I love the idea of a forever shifting interior

[@markmartinbattle5318]

Just Brilliant you have knocked it out of the park here .

[@mortifera123]

Can't wait to see a production here, both for the art and the building! What a fascinating and thoughtfully designed space

[@VCLAagency]

wow. just wow.

[@TomSavarese1]

Sensational! Beautiful!

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

It looks very beautiful. I tend to lack enthusiasm for most modern buildings, but this is lovely. The interiors are warm and welcoming. Thank you for the video!

[@mariannam3141]

yes yes yes for part two! ;)

[@pear_jules4013]

What a masterful and incredible engineering feat. Absolutely brilliant.

[@purplebutterfly7257]

Beautiful

[@colbystearns5238]

It looks gorgeous and you can't go wrong with marble in my opinion, tried and true since antiquity! I love the warm, ethereal amber glow it emits at night also. :)