United Nations Secretariat Building

UNO_New_York

United_Nations_Building_(6279787666)

Deputy_Secretary_Blinken_Delivers_Remarks_at_the_Global_Community_Engagement_and_Resilience_Fund_Meeting_(29228644494)

Calm_(235467517)

UN_Emblem_and_Headquarters

The United Nations Secretariat Building is a prominent skyscraper located in the Turtle Bay neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. It serves as the headquarters of the United Nations Secretariat, one of the six principal organs of the United Nations (UN). The building is part of the United Nations Headquarters complex, which also includes the General Assembly Building, the Conference Building, and the Dag Hammarskjöld Library.

History

The construction of the United Nations Secretariat Building began in 1947 and was completed in 1952. The building was designed by an international team of architects led by Wallace Harrison and included notable figures such as Le Corbusier and Oscar Niemeyer. The design of the building is a prime example of the International Style of architecture, characterized by its sleek, modernist lines and extensive use of glass and steel.

Architecture

The United Nations Secretariat Building stands 154 meters (505 feet) tall and has 39 floors. Its facade is made of glass curtain walls, which were innovative at the time of its construction. The building's design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, reflecting the ideals of the United Nations.

Functions

The United Nations Secretariat Building houses the offices of the Secretary-General, the Under-Secretary-General, and various departments and offices that support the work of the United Nations. These include the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, the Department of Peace Operations, and the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

Renovations

The building underwent significant renovations as part of the Capital Master Plan, which aimed to modernize and improve the safety and functionality of the United Nations Headquarters. The renovations, completed in 2012, included upgrades to the building's infrastructure, security systems, and environmental performance.

Significance

The United Nations Secretariat Building is not only an architectural landmark but also a symbol of international diplomacy and cooperation. It plays a crucial role in the daily operations of the United Nations, facilitating the work of diplomats, staff, and representatives from around the world.

Related Pages

• United Nations Headquarters
• Secretary-General of the United Nations
• General Assembly Building
• Dag Hammarskjöld Library
• International Style (architecture)
• Wallace Harrison
• Le Corbusier
• Oscar Niemeyer