Fordham University

Tower of Light

A new elevator tower becomes a beacon for Fordham University.

The new entrance to the Lincoln Center Campus was part of a major plan by Fordham University to make their campus more connected to the city fabric, more accessible and more beautiful. It included a new elevator tower and a grand stair to join the small street level entrance to the immense plaza that covers the roofs of several buildings on the campus.

The elevator structure is glass, with lights behind — a functional element that becomes a visually stunning beacon, visible for many city blocks around — proclaiming Fordham’s place in the City. The structure is an example of John Gillis’ interest in creating architecture that works on many levels. It is a glistening envelope for the elevator. It is the structural core supporting the elegant cantilevered granite and steel staircase. And it provides the opportunity to create a visual form of power and light.