The Eldorado Apartments, 300 Central Park West (New York, N.Y.), 1929-1985

Collection context

Creator:
Roth, Emery, 1871-1948 and Margon & Holder
Extent:
76 Sheets
Language:
English .
Scope and content:

Architectural, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, structural, and elevator drawings for the Eldorado Apartment Building at 300 Central Park West in New York City.

Biographical / historical:

The Eldorado (300 Central Park West, NYC) is an iconic apartment building designed by Margon & Holder in association with Emery Roth, one of the most prolific architects of important hotels and apartment buildings in Manhattan during the 1920s and 1930s. Home to many prominent New Yorkers, including Senator Royal Copeland and the important rabbi of Reform Judaism Stephen Wise, the thirty-story Eldorado is one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the city due to its geometric ornament, contrasting materials, and futuristic sculpture. The massing of the building is evidence of the first zoning laws passed in New York (1916) that mandated setbacks to allow light and air to reach streets below. Such setback designs became a signature of Roth's architecture, as well as the New York City skyline. These original linen drawings document floor plans of the Eldorado, which were the primary responsibility of Roth.

Access and use

Restrictions:

This collection is available for use by appointment in the Department of Drawings & Archives, Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library, Columbia University. For further information, please email avery-drawings@library.columbia.edu.

Location of this collection:
300 Avery Hall
1172 Amsterdam Ave.
New York, NY 10027, USA
Before you visit:
Researchers are encouraged to request materials at least one month in advance. You will receive an email from the department within 2-3 business days confirming your request and currently available appointment times. Requests are limited to 8 boxes per day (or equivalent), with a maximum of 5 boxes for off-site materials, 5 folders of drawings, or 5 rolls or tube boxes.
Contact:
avery-drawings@columbia.edu