by Andrew Formichella

Most eyes are on the glamour and the celebrities at the biannual "New York Mercedes Benz Fashion Week." Indeed, 7th on Sixth Inc., the nonprofit organization created to organize and produce these fashion shows, works hard to point the spotlights on the fashion models and designers.

But in the world of architecture, engineering, and construction, 7th on Sixth offers equally interesting lessons in logistics, organization, and sheer tenacity.

Twice a year, using a variety of rented, prefabricated building components, 7th on Sixth constructs a temporary facility consisting of four theaters, a sponsor showcase lobby, and numerous ancillary support spaces.

The 65,000-square-foot (6000-square-meter) facility is constructed in twelve days within a tight urban site. During its nine days of operation, the facility produces about ten shows per day, handling approximately 20,000 people each day.

A.Form Architecture pc performs architectural services for 7th on Sixth, a process of shifting, squeezing, and growing them into their site. Strip away the glamour, we realized, and we have an extraordinary example of a modern "temporary" architecture, which can provide insights about other potential applications and historical references.

Site design

The temporary facility is located in the 100-year-old, recently restored Bryant Park, in the heart of midtown Manhattan. The location calls out for sensitivity to the existing classical stonework and architectural elements.

Twice a year, 7th on Sixth Inc. installs "New York Mercedes Benz Fashion Week" in a temporary structure in Bryant Park, New York. Photo: United Rentals In the heart of midtown Manhattan, the entry to the temporary facility takes advantage of existing stairs and other park features. Photo: Andy Engler   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.