The design of this 182-metre-high office tower was the outcome of a dialogue between old and new structures. Situated near the south-west corner of Central Park, the block rises above a six-storey art deco plinth structure that was completed in 1928. Even in those days, the media mogul William Randolph Hearst had the idea of using this as the base for a high-rise block, and the appropriate structural measures were taken at that time. Almost 80 years were to pass, however, before this concept was implemented. The architects gutted the existing building down to the original sandstone outer walls, within which they created a spacious lobby, containing a lift area, a cafeteria and an auditorium, as well as mezzanine levels for meetings and special uses. The office storeys are served by 15 passenger lifts. Together with the two lifts to the mezzanine levels, they provide access to all parts of the building. In addition, there are two goods lifts. The new structure is raised above the lobby on reinforced concrete columns and linked with the historic plinth by a glazed strip.