The New York State Pavilion comprises three structures designed by the modernist architect Philip Johnson for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair: the clustered trio of 226-foot-tall observation towers; the Theaterama building, now adapted for use as the Queens Theater; and the 100-foot-tall open-air pavilion known as the Tent of Tomorrow, the largest suspension roof structure in the world at the time of its construction.
The complex is listed on State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Observation Towers
Silman is the lead design consultant for the current reconstruction of deteriorated portions of the three Astro-View towers and the installation of new architectural lighting. Work under this contract, which is intended to serve as the first phase of a restoration for potential public use, will include the reconstruction of deteriorated interior stairs to provide a safe route to the top of Tower 3.
Tent of Tomorrow
Silman’s earlier work at the Tent of Tomorrow, also under contract with NYC DPR, included a historic structures report and recommendations for stabilization. Silman is the lead consultant for the current architectural lighting scope of the Tent of Tomorrow and is also developing a superstructure movement monitoring plan.
Theaterama
Silman worked on a 2010 project to add a reception hall and later to renovate the lobby (with PKSB Architects). Silman also designed the new built-up, multi-tiered platform for the theater seating. There was no work on the existing structure, but because original design documents were not available, Silman analyzed the existing cast-in-place concrete columns and waffle slab to ensure it could support the new seating loading.