The Octagon
This striking rotunda on Roosevelt Island is one of New York City's most unusual historic landmarks, with its curved stone facade, tall arched windows, and ornate spiral staircase inside the restored atrium creating strong architectural compositions. The exterior curves reward a wide-angle lens, especially when you position yourself close to the base and shoot upward to emphasize the height and symmetry of the octagonal form. The interior atrium, with its sweeping staircase spiraling upward toward a glass skylight, is the real prize; shoot from the ground floor looking up to capture the geometric repetition of the railings against the light. Midday works surprisingly well inside thanks to the overhead natural light, while overcast days soften shadows on the exterior stone. Roosevelt Island is easily reached via the aerial tramway or the F train, and the building sits just a short walk from the tram station. (Roosevelt Island, New York City, United States)
