Built originally as the United States Steel Building in 1967, One Liberty Plaza is a Class A office building in Lower Manhattan with a prestigious tenant roster. After the September 11 attacks, Brookfield Financial Properties, the building owner and manager, considered an upgrade of tenant security imperative.

The commission was to design a line of security within the main lobby comprised of glass rails, turnstiles and a new reception desk. The redesign was integrated consistently with the existing materials. A minimal and transparent intervention was created that reflects a welcoming updated image. The design accommodated the new security and communications hardware. To facilitate circulation, the main reception desk was relocated and two smaller desks were added for increased security.