 The Pennocks hired architects Bruce Price and Marvin & Davis to design the French Renaissance-style building.One year later, in February 1904, the investment group that sponsored the developers collapsed and the building was left incomplete, with the exterior complete but housing just an empty shell.In May 1905, Astor assumed control of the project and engaged Trowbridge & Livingston, who had just designed his St. Regis Hotel, to complete the interiors.