The New Rockefeller Center Rink Concourse

The redesign of Rockefeller Center's rink level honors its historic character while embracing

future public spaces. It connects directly to the historic Raymond Hood interiors, reinterpreting original details with modern elements like bronze, fluted limestone plaster, and charcoal terrazzo. The new design solves circulation and wayfinding issues, democratizing access to natural light and views. Flowing lines and indirect lighting enhance movement and visibility, while continuous light ribbons inspired by Radio City Music Hall add a glamorous spirit. Opening the low ceilings reveals the historic structure, contrasting with the luxurious new palette and revitalizing this iconic Manhattan landmark. Key project details Our goal was to develop a light and flowing architecture with a site-specific, forensic aesthetic approach that would support wayfinding through the concourse with a reverence for the historic and iconic character of Rockefeller Center. The previous rink concourse at Rockefeller Center was dark, confusing to navigate, and limited public access around the rink interior to restaurant patrons only. To address these issues, INC Architecture & Design aimed to democratize access, view, and engagement with the rink from the concourse interior. Their solution involved maximizing the influx of natural light from the rink into the concourse and developing an architecture that supports clear wayfinding. The new design incorporates continuous flowing lines and indirect lighting to enhance movement and visibility, making navigation intuitive and enjoyable. Gentle, curvaceous geometry in the full-height concourse storefronts and terrazzo flooring details draw visitors effortlessly through the space. Inspired by the continuous ribbons of light in Radio City Music Hall, these features connect each area, bringing an active, glamorous, and bright spirit to the concourse. By opening the low ceilings to reveal the existing historic steel and concrete structure, the design adds a rugged contrast to the luxurious new palette, aerating the previously oppressive atmosphere and revitalizing the iconic space. This approach not only respects the historical essence of Rockefeller Center but also transforms it into an accessible, engaging, and aesthetically pleasing public environment.