The Alfred E. Smith Building, Albany

The Alfred E. Smith State Office Building, commonly referred to as the Smith Building, is a historic Art Deco skyscraper in downtown Albany. Standing at 388 feet (118 meters) with 34 stories, it remains Albany's second tallest structure, surpassed only by the Erastus Corning Tower. Situated across the street from the New York State Capitol and One Commerce Plaza, this landmark has been a central hub for New York State government offices since its completion.

Construction commenced in 1927 under the architectural direction of William E. Haugaard and Sullivan W. Jones. When completed in 1930, the structure became Albany’s tallest building, holding that title until later developments in the city’s skyline. The building was initially named the State Office Building but was renamed in 1945 to honor Alfred E. Smith, a four-term Governor of New York and the Democratic nominee for the 1928 U.S. presidential election.

Built in the Art Deco style, the Smith Building is constructed from limestone and granite, boasting a striking engraved facade at street level that lists the names of all 62 New York State counties. One of its most distinctive features is its ornate lobby, decorated with murals of prominent New Yorkers. A tunnel connects the building to the New York State Capitol, enhancing its role within the governmental complex.

Originally, the 31st floor housed an open-air observation deck at 350 feet (110 meters), offering panoramic views of Albany and the surrounding landscape. However, the deck was closed in 1976, following the opening of the Corning Tower Observation Deck on the 42nd floor of the Erastus Corning Tower, which provided an enclosed alternative at 589 feet (180 meters).

Today, the Alfred E. Smith State Office Building remains an enduring symbol of Albany’s political and architectural legacy, standing as a testament to New York’s rich history and administrative strength.