Norten

The Hotel Americano at 27th Street, designed by Mexican architect Enrique Norten and offering 56 rooms in a 10-story building, is expected to open in the second half of the year.

Luxury Digs Hop Aboard New High Line Craig Karmin 2011

A few blocks south sits Mexican architect Enrique Norten 's recently finished garage, featuring a taut, white concrete façade pocked with perforations like a punch card.

Sleek, Chic Hangout ... a Garage Arian Campo-Flores 2012

"It's very grand, very generous at a time that was not very good for wealth for New York," Mr. Norten said.

Far Above the Showroom Robbie Whelan 2011

Mexican modernist Enrique Norten began flexing his muscles on the international stage when he opened his New York office in 2003.

Far Above the Showroom Robbie Whelan 2011

"We could have ended up building a podium with some smallish towers on top of the podium, which would be a very conventional way of achieving what we wanted," Mr. Norten said.

Far Above the Showroom Robbie Whelan 2011

As a contribution to the skyline, Mr. Norten has succeeded in building an unconventional, fascinating building.

Far Above the Showroom Robbie Whelan 2011

It's about creating this dialogue with the very particular conditions and unique opportunities of the city, Mr. Norten said, referring to the southwesterly views of the Hudson River enjoyed by many of the residents living in the middle section of the building.

Far Above the Showroom Robbie Whelan 2011

Mr. Norten said in an interview that "contextuality" was important to him and clearly he tried on some levels.

Far Above the Showroom Robbie Whelan 2011

In one way, this approach is refreshing: Mr. Norten chose not to present a design that contributes to New York's vertical arms race, in which builders strive to build the highest, sleekest, glassiest buildings possible.

Far Above the Showroom Robbie Whelan 2011

As a designer of residential buildings in Washington, Miami, Mexico and elsewhere, Mr. Norten has largely eschewed developing a recognizable signature style.

Far Above the Showroom Robbie Whelan 2011