FOSTER’S DOUBLE SHOT AT HEARST: From an architectural standpoint, Lord Norman Foster’s design for the $500 million Hearst Tower was all about bringing staffers together. Now 10 years on, the prized architect has designed The Lounge@57, a self-serve Nespresso coffee bar overlooking the skyscraper’s third-floor atrium.
Foster + Partners also designed the dove-gray and wovenlike glass-covered tables that define the 4,500-square-foot space. The Lounge@57 keeps Hearst-ers caffeinated from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m with an iPad checkout, though it’s also up-for-the-taking for team and other company events.
Staffers very well may spot the 80-year-old Foster himself sipping an espresso, since his firm has an office in the 46-story tower.
Foster + Partners’ latest project: It recently wrapped up the first new visible building on the estate of Château Margaux in 200 years. Barrel loads of both red and white wine are produced in that facility (which Hearst-ers might like to know) is called The Nouveau Chai.