Vessel is a unique architectural structure in New York City, created by British designer Thomas Heatherwick. Its shape resembles a honeycomb or an inverted cone, making it one of the most unusual landmarks in the city.
However, due to its complex structure, Vessel has repeatedly been criticized as unsafe and inaccessible for people with disabilities. In addition, the site has gained a negative reputation because of suicides that occurred there.
Vessel has been closed several times to improve safety measures, prevent further incidents, and address criticism. But on February 27 it will be open to visitors again, with tickets available at vesselnyc.com.
Interesting Facts About Vessel in New York
- The structure consists of a network of 154 interwoven staircases and 80 observation landings.
- All steel components were manufactured in Italy and then transported to New York across the Atlantic Ocean.
- To keep the unique design secret before its unveiling, construction took place behind a six-meter fence.
- Due to its architectural complexity, construction costs reached $200 million.
- New Yorkers nicknamed Vessel the “Giant Shawarma” because of its shape.
- The appearance of the structure changes throughout the day due to reflections of the city in its polished copper-colored cladding.
- Vessel is one of the most photographed locations in New York City.
- The design was inspired by Indian stepwells, which feature hundreds of interwoven staircases descending underground.
The Unique Architecture of Vessel
Vessel was conceived as an interactive sculpture that visitors can explore from within. Thomas Heatherwick drew inspiration from ancient Indian stepwells with their intricate networks of stairs and platforms descending below ground level. He adapted this visual concept to create a three-dimensional walking experience.
The result is a 16-story structure in the shape of an inverted cone, standing 150 feet tall. Vessel intentionally contrasts with the surrounding skyscrapers: while most towers narrow as they rise, Vessel widens upward, creating visual balance in the urban landscape.
Inside are 154 interconnected stair flights comprising 2,500 steps and 80 horizontal viewing platforms. The total length of all stair routes inside Vessel is 1 mile.
The complex frame is made of unfinished welded and painted steel. The exterior is clad in polished, copper-colored stainless steel panels. Because of this reflective surface, the structure’s appearance constantly changes depending on sunlight, weather, and the surrounding crowd.
After several tragic incidents, protective steel mesh barriers were installed on the levels to prevent falls, while the uppermost tier remains closed to the public.
The History of Vessel in New York
Vessel is the result of international collaboration. All steel sections were manufactured in Monfalcone, Italy, by the specialized company Cimolai. The structure consists of 75 large components weighing more than 600 tons, transported to New York by ship across the Atlantic.
The structure became part of Hudson Yards, specifically the Hudson Yards Public Square. Vessel is surrounded by a landscaped park featuring 28,000 plants and 225 trees.
Criticism
The history of Vessel has included both enthusiastic praise and serious criticism, ultimately leading to several extended closures.
Architecture critics described the structure as “gaudy,” an “eyesore,” and “contrived.” Locals gave it ironic nicknames such as “giant shawarma,” “cheese grater,” and “skeleton.”
Initially, the structure was largely inaccessible to wheelchair users, as it had only one elevator, which often skipped floors due to overcrowding. This led to protests from disability rights groups and intervention by the U.S. Department of Justice, after which accessibility improvements were made.
At the beginning of Hudson Yards’ operations, developers claimed ownership rights over any photographs taken by visitors. After public backlash in the press, the policy was quickly reversed.
The project was criticized for its enormous cost (up to $200 million compared to the originally planned $75 million) and labeled a “staircase to nowhere,” seen by some as overly decorative and lacking meaningful public purpose.
However, the main reason for Vessel’s closures was a series of suicides linked to low safety barriers on the open platforms. The site was closed five times for extended and indefinite periods. Hudson Yards owner Stephen Ross even considered permanently shutting it down.
Vessel Today
After more than a three-year hiatus, Vessel will reopen on October 27, 2026. To ensure safety, tall protective steel mesh screens have been installed on all levels. Here’s what you can do at Vessel.
Climb the Stairs and Enjoy the Views
Walk through the intricate network of 154 interconnected stair flights and 2,500 steps. Stop at any of the 80 viewing platforms to see Manhattan and the Hudson River from various heights and angles.
Take Unique Photos
Vessel is one of the most photographed places in New York. Thanks to its bronze-colored mirrored stainless steel cladding, the appearance of the structure constantly changes depending on the angle, time of day, and lighting.
Explore the Surrounding Hudson Yards Area
A visit to Vessel can be combined with a walk around the surrounding area. The structure is set within a landscaped park, and nearby you’ll find over 100 shops and restaurants, The Shed cultural center, and the observation deck Edge.
Useful Information
📍 Vessel / 20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Ticket price: from $15
Tickets: vesselnyc.com
