The cultural cornerstone and final public element of the World Trade Center site, the Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) is a new home for emerging and established artists in theater, dance, music, chamber opera, film, and media from New York City and around the world. Designed by REX, in collaboration with executive architect Davis Brody Bond and theater consultant Charcoalblue, the 129,000-square-foot, cube-shaped building houses three theaters with radically flexible capabilities.
Rockwell Group designed PAC NYC's entry experience and lobby, as well as the lobby-level restaurant, Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson, which includes a lounge, bar, and outdoor terrace.
Our design concept was driven by the desire to create a warm and welcoming experience, with varied spaces to gather from day to night. We clad the ceiling in undulating sapele wood ribbons with integrated LED lighting that run north-south and pick up on the grid of the building. Visible from the street-level entry, the ribbons orient guests in the lobby and carry them past a set of monumental exposed trusses to the restaurant, bar, and outdoor terrace.
Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson
The welcoming restaurant, helmed by renowned Chef Marcus Samuelsson, is intentionally woven throughout the lobby experience to generate buzz and energy.
A small built-in stage with tiered seating provides opportunities for free public performances in the southern end of the lobby.
Vintage area rugs add warmth and softness. Black stained wood and walnut furniture with neutral upholstery was carefully chosen and designed to ensure comfort for both lounge and dining settings. Hints of burgundy recall the performance hall seating.
The bar is open to the kitchen beyond through a lower pass-through window and metal mesh. Views are oriented to the glazed north wall and outdoor terrace and bar. A collection of Paola Lenti outdoor furnishings includes David Rockwell’s Elba collection for the Italian designer.
