The building is designed as an octagonal-shaped tower rising from an eight-story square podium base.

Clad in granite panels and glass, the tower culminates with a dramatic 70-foot glass crown that illuminates at night.

Bear Stearns' trading operations are located in the podium base on levels three through eight. Containing approximately 42,000 square feet, each trading floor accommodates up to 420 traders.

The office floor plates are an octagon shape, achieving maximum efficiency and providing spectacular views.

During the 1980's a tower was proposed for the 383 Madison site at 72 stories tall with 1.6 million ft². The design architects for the project were Kohn Pederson Fox.