Gehry to Design New York Performance Center

Frank Gehry is gearing up to leave his mark on the New York City skyline once more with the design of the Signature Theatre Company’s new home, the Signature Center. The $800 million hotel, housing, and performing arts complex in the middle of the New York’s theater district is on its way to reality after a $60 million partnership between the city and the nonprofit cultural group. Signature’s “spectacular new home,” as Mayor Michael Bloomberg referred to Gehry’s vision, made possible by $25 million from the city and $35 million privately invested, will allow for the organization’s further expansion. Set for a 2011 completion date, the 59-story residential building and hotel will offer over 800 new housing units, more than 160 of which will be available for low-income families. The Signature Center, which anticipates a 2012 completion, will include three theaters, rehearsal studios, a café, a bookstore, and Signature administrative offices. “We’re all very excited about the direction we’ve taken and are looking forward to watching the first performance,” the famed contemporary architect said.