The 14 Wall Street Building, with its distinctive pyramidal roof, is one of the great towers that define the lower Manhattan sky line. Located in the heart of the financial district, the building was erected in 1910-12 for the Bankers Trust Company. Symbolizing the importance of the company, the 539-foot-high 14 Wall Street Building was the tallest bank building in the world when it was completed. Designed by the prestigious firm of Trowbridge & Livingston, this granite-clad tower incorporated the latest in building technologies and was one of the first buildings to employ a cofferdam foundation system. Inspired by the campanile of San Marco in Venice, the building's design is notable for its austere decorative scheme incorporating specific Greek architectural motifs. Especially noteworthy is the sevenstory stepped pyramid which is credited with setting an important precedent for the development of boldly topped skyscraper towers. In 1931-33 the building received a twenty-five-story , L-shaped addition, designed by the leading architectural firm of Shreve, Lamb & Harmon. The addition is articulated with a blend of Modern Classic and Art Deco motifs which complements Trowbridge & Livingston's original design. Over the years the 14 Wall Street Building has become a symbol of the financial district. Its design was widely copied during the 1920s and remains an inspiration for modern designers.
