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Rendering of the Torch from the Hudson River (ODA Architects for Extell Development)
The Torch, a supertall hotel-and-observation tower rising at 740 Eighth Avenue, has received its first sections of cladding, offering a clearer glimpse of what the somewhat clandestine project will look like upon completion. The development is a novel addition to New York City, combining an 825-key hotel with a multi-level public observation deck and a “drop ride” attraction housed in transparent tubes.
The Torch is the tallest building currently under construction in the city, rising between West 45th and West 46th Streets on the edge of Times Square and Hell’s Kitchen. Developed by Extell Development, led by Gary Barnett, and designed by ODA Architecture (with SLCE as architect of record), the 52-story tower is set to soar 1,067 feet, slightly higher than the spire tips of both the Chrysler Building and the New York Times Building.
Like many projects spearheaded by master land assembler Gary Barnett, The Torch is notable for how it wraps around three holdout buildings along Eighth Avenue. The majority of the site was previously occupied by surface and multi-story parking lots, while several small buildings were razed. Boston Properties previously planned a glass box office tower at the site.
As of late March 2026, the concrete superstructure has risen past the 20th floor, and its frame, along with its kangaroo crane, is becoming increasingly visible across the city, Hudson River, and Jersey waterfront. The tower will likely top out its observation floors early next year, with a projected opening in 2028.
As of late March 2026, several floors along the southern 45th Street elevation have received their first curtain wall panels. The initial cladding reveals a pinstriped facade of white panels and reflective glass that emphasizes the building’s verticality. Renderings suggest the podium and observation levels will feature faceted glass, giving the structure a crystalline appearance.
ODA’s design has received mixed reactions based on the limited drawings and renderings released, with some pointing to the awkward massing around the holdout buildings, the integration of the hotel with the structural elevator/stair core that rises out of it, and the top-heavy observation crown. Some have compared the design to an electric toothbrush.
Regardless, due to its height and uniqueness, it will become one of the standout icons on the Midtown skyline, especially from the West Side.
Facts and construction photos of The Torch
The Torch will be a “supertall” by global standards. At a reported ~325 meters (1,067 feet), The Torch clears the 300-meter threshold commonly used to define “supertall” towers.
The project name and crown concept is intended to evoke the Statue of Liberty’s torch.
The site was assembled through major air-rights deals. Extell’s assemblage included purchases of parcels and a large package of development rights from the Shubert Organization; one reported condition: Extell must pause certain construction activity when performances are underway at the adjacent Imperial Theatre.
The tower is being built around “holdouts.” The three small low-rise buildings: an Irish pub, a gift shop, and an Italian restaurant, remains on the Eighth Avenue frontage, while the new superstructure rises around them.
The design includes multiple public-facing components beyond the deck that include street-level retail and upper-level food-and-beverage establishments.
Construction has been stop-and-go. Progress stalled prior to 2024 and then resumed in 2025.
The roster of contractors and consultants are from offices around the globe. Lendlease is the general contractor and WSP the structural engineer.
The ride is marketed by project advocates as contextually “Times Square.” Supporters, including the Times Square Business Improvement District and the Hotel Association argued that the attraction matches Times Square’s entertainment character, while opponents worry about precedent for more amusement-style developments around the city.
The completion target has drifted. Previously scheduled for completion in Q2 2027, but a 2028 completion is more realistic
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