"Developer Harry Macklowe said he wanted an "absolutely pure building" in 432 Park and tapped the Uruguayan modernist architect Rafael Viñoly to help execute that vision. On top of being one of the tallest and slimmest buildings in the world, the perfectly rectilinear tower would also be a stark, clean white. But that signature aesthetic, which apparently helped sell out the building's 125 units for more than $2.5 billion - A-Rod and Jennifer Lopez were among the early buyers - now appears to be the source of some major problems, per the Times."
"It turns out that the same additives that give cement its darkened color are also good for durability.During a visit that December by architects, engineers, and developers to a Brooklyn concrete yard, they found the cement mix used in the mock columns riddled with cracks and "bug holes" more than an inch wide. A structural engineer working on the project suggested adding a by-product of coal combustion called fly ash to address the cracks. He was then told that the developers would not accept that fix because it would make the coloring of the façade too dark."
""going down a dangerous and slippery path that I believe will eventually lead to failure and lawsuits to come,""
The 102-story 432 Park tower prioritized a stark white aesthetic that influenced material choices. Developers and architects rejected durability-enhancing concrete additives because they darkened the façade. Mock columns showed extensive cracking and large "bug holes," prompting a structural engineer to recommend adding fly ash for durability. That fix was refused to preserve color, creating a tradeoff between appearance and structural longevity. Experts warned the decision risked significant façade failure, potential falling concrete hazards, and future litigation. The color-driven choice contributed directly to present safety concerns and likely costly remediation and legal exposure.
Read at Curbed
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