The stylized mural of the original high, arched, Fifth Avenue entrance, a geometric abstraction of industrial gears and wheels executed in gold and aluminum leaf, had been painted over and partly destroyed by a hung acrylic ceiling and fluorescent fixtures.

WSJ: The Empire State Building's Luster Returns | By Ada Louise Huxtable

Aluminum was an expensive and fashionable new metal in the 1930s, and although silver leaf is more commonly used and cheaper today, Mr. Malkin went for aluminum and authenticity in the restoration by EverGreene Architectural Arts.

WSJ: The Empire State Building's Luster Returns | By Ada Louise Huxtable

In addition, a new lower priced entry-level LEAF S grade joins the previous SV and SL grades, while an array of feature enhancements are added to the LEAF SL grade, including leather-appointed seating and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

ENGADGET: Nissan starts US production of 2013 Leaf, vows faster charging and a lower entry price