Name: Flatiron Building
Address: 175 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010
Rating: 4.6

Architect Daniel Burnham's iconic 1902 triangular tower nicknamed for its clothes iron look.

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Times Square

Rockefeller Center

Statue of Liberty

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Flatiron Building was built in just one year, a remarkable feat for a structure of its size and complexity.

Rapid Construction

When it was completed in 1902, the Flatiron Building had 20 floors, making it one of the tallest buildings in New York City at the time.

Original Floors

In 1911, a nightclub in the Flatiron Building's basement became the first to feature a black jazz band, making it a significant moment in music history.

First Black Jazz Band

The Flatiron Building has male and female bathrooms on separate floors, with even floors designated for men and odd floors for women.

Gendered Bathrooms

For safety reasons, the Flatiron Building only has one staircase for evacuation purposes.

Single Staircase

To reach the top floor of the Flatiron Building on the 21st floor, you need to take a separate elevator from the 20th floor.

Top Floor Access

The Flatiron Building originally featured two terracotta sculptures of cherubs at its apex, symbolizing the building's 'guardian spirits'.

Guardian Spirits

Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building, a 22-story, 285-foot-tall steel-framed triangular building at 175 Fifth Avenue in the Flatiron District neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City, is a landmark of the city's architectural history. Designed by Daniel Burnham and Frederick P. Dinkelberg, the building, completed in 1902, sits on a triangular block formed by Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and East 22nd Street. Its name derives from its triangular shape, which recalls that of a cast-iron clothes iron.

The Flatiron Building was developed as the headquarters of construction firm Fuller Company, which acquired the site from the Newhouse family in May 1901. Construction proceeded rapidly, and the building opened on October 1, 1902. Originally 20 floors, a "cowcatcher" retail space and penthouse were added shortly after the building's opening. The Fuller Company sold the building in 1925 to an investment syndicate. The Equitable Life Assurance Society took over the building after a foreclosure auction in 1933 and sold it to another syndicate in 1945. Helmsley-Spear managed the building for much of the late 20th century, renovating it several times. The Newmark Group started managing the building in 1997. Ownership was divided among several companies, which started renovating the building again in 2019. Jacob Garlick agreed to acquire the Flatiron Building at an auction in early 2023, but failed to pay the required deposit, and three of the four existing ownership groups took over the building. In October 2023, it was announced that the building would be converted to residential condominiums.

The Flatiron Building's facade is divided vertically into three sections, similarly to the components of a classical column. The three-story base is clad with limestone, while the upper stories are clad with glazed terracotta. The building's steel frame, designed by structural engineering firm Purdy and Henderson, was intended to withstand four times the maximum wind force of the area. Called "one of the world's most iconic skyscrapers and a quintessential symbol of New York City", the building anchors the south (downtown) end of Madison Square and the north (uptown) end of the Ladies' Mile Historic District. The neighborhood around it is called the Flatiron District after its signature, iconic building. The building was designated a New York City landmark in 1966, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989. A survey in 2023 found that the Flatiron Building was the fourth-most-loved building in the United States.

Introduction

The Flatiron Building, a New York City landmark, stands as a testament to the power of the triangular shape in architecture. Its distinctive form, a 22-degree wedge, was a radical departure from the traditional rectangular buildings of the time. This unique design was not merely aesthetic; it was a response to the unusual triangular plot of land at the intersection of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and 23rd Street.

The building's triangular shape presented significant engineering challenges. The narrow end, facing 23rd Street, is only 6.5 feet wide, while the wider end, facing Broadway, is 87 feet wide. To ensure stability, architect Daniel Burnham employed a steel frame, a relatively new technology at the time. This frame allowed for the construction of thin, load-bearing walls, maximizing usable space within the building.

The triangular shape also influenced the building's interior layout. The floors are progressively smaller as they ascend, creating a sense of intimacy and seclusion on the higher levels. The narrow end of the building houses a dramatic, three-story atrium, flooded with natural light from a skylight. This atrium serves as a central gathering space and a testament to the ingenuity of the triangular design.

The Flatiron Building's triangular shape has not only shaped its internal structure but also its external perception. Its unusual form has made it a popular subject for photographers and artists, capturing the dynamic energy of New York City. The building's distinctive silhouette has become synonymous with the city's skyline, a symbol of innovation and architectural daring.

In conclusion, the Flatiron Building's triangular shape is more than just an aesthetic choice; it is a testament to the power of form and function in architecture. The building's unique design has not only overcome engineering challenges but also created a visually striking and functionally efficient structure, forever etched in the urban landscape of New York City.

Triangular Shape

The Flatiron Building: A Beacon of Innovation and Architectural Prowess

Towering above the bustling streets of Manhattan, the Flatiron Building stands as a testament to architectural innovation and a symbol of New York City's vibrant history. Its triangular shape, a daring feat of engineering for its time, earned it the nickname "The Flatiron," a moniker that has become synonymous with the building itself. Completed in 1902, the Flatiron was one of the first skyscrapers in the city, its 22 stories piercing the skyline and forever altering the urban landscape.

Beyond its groundbreaking design, the Flatiron Building boasts a rich history intertwined with the city's cultural and artistic evolution. Its early years saw it house a diverse array of tenants, from artists and photographers to publishers and advertising agencies. This eclectic mix contributed to the building's bohemian reputation, attracting prominent figures like photographer Alfred Stieglitz and writer Theodore Dreiser. The Flatiron Building even played a role in the development of modern advertising, with its unique shape serving as a canvas for eye-catching billboards that transformed the cityscape.

Today, the Flatiron Building remains a vibrant hub, its commercial spaces occupied by a mix of businesses, including tech startups, design firms, and media companies. Its iconic status continues to draw tourists and photographers from around the world, eager to capture its distinctive silhouette against the ever-changing backdrop of the city. The Flatiron Building is not just a landmark; it's a living testament to the city's spirit of innovation, creativity, and resilience. Its enduring presence serves as a reminder of the transformative power of architecture and its ability to shape not only the physical landscape but also the cultural fabric of a city.

Iconic Landmark

The Flatiron Building, a triangular marvel in the heart of Manhattan, stands as a testament to adaptive reuse and the evolution of office spaces. Originally constructed in 1902 as a headquarters for the Fuller Company, the building's unique shape and steel-frame construction presented challenges for traditional office layouts. 

In the 1980s, facing vacancy and obsolescence, the Flatiron Building underwent a major conversion. Recognizing its architectural significance and potential, developers transformed the space into a modern office complex. The conversion involved subdividing the large floor plates into smaller, more manageable units, catering to the needs of smaller businesses and startups. 

The renovation preserved the building's iconic exterior while introducing modern amenities and infrastructure. The once-spacious floors were reconfigured to create a variety of office configurations, including open-plan layouts, private offices, and conference rooms. The conversion also incorporated energy-efficient systems and improved accessibility features. 

Today, the Flatiron Building stands as a thriving hub for businesses of all sizes. Its unique history and adaptive reuse serve as an inspiration for the ongoing transformation of office spaces in urban centers. The building's success demonstrates the potential of historic structures to evolve and meet the changing needs of the modern workforce.

Office Building Conversion

The Flatiron Building: A Pioneer in Urban Development

The Flatiron Building, a triangular marvel in the heart of Manhattan, stands as a testament to innovation and adaptation in urban development. Completed in 1902, it was one of the first skyscrapers in the city, pushing the boundaries of engineering and design. Its unique shape, dictated by the convergence of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, posed a challenge for traditional construction methods. The solution: a steel frame, a revolutionary technique at the time, allowing for a slender, 22-story structure on a narrow plot.

The Flatiron's impact on urban development extended beyond its groundbreaking construction. Its location, at the intersection of two major thoroughfares, transformed the surrounding area. The building's presence spurred the development of commercial and retail spaces, attracting businesses and residents to the once-sparse neighborhood. This influx of activity contributed to the growth of Midtown Manhattan as a bustling commercial hub.

Furthermore, the Flatiron Building's architectural style, a blend of Renaissance Revival and Beaux-Arts, influenced the design of future skyscrapers. Its ornate details and classical proportions set a new standard for urban aesthetics, inspiring a generation of architects to explore the possibilities of vertical construction.

Today, the Flatiron Building remains a symbol of urban ingenuity and a testament to the transformative power of architecture. Its enduring presence serves as a reminder of the continuous evolution of cities and the role of innovative design in shaping their landscapes.

Urban Development

The Flatiron Building, a triangular skyscraper in New York City, stands as a unique and captivating tourist destination. Its distinct wedge shape, reminiscent of an iron, has earned it the nickname "Flatiron." Completed in 1902, the building was one of the tallest in the city at the time, reaching 22 stories and 285 feet.

The Flatiron Building's location at the intersection of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and East 23rd Street places it in the heart of Manhattan, surrounded by iconic landmarks and attractions. Its proximity to Madison Square Park, the Empire State Building, and numerous shops and restaurants makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the city.

Beyond its architectural significance, the Flatiron Building boasts a rich history and cultural relevance. It has been featured in countless films, television shows, and works of literature, solidifying its status as a pop culture icon. The building's unique shape and prominent location have made it a recognizable symbol of New York City.

For tourists seeking a memorable experience, the Flatiron Building offers a variety of attractions. Visitors can admire the building's intricate details, including its ornate terracotta facade, decorative cornices, and arched windows. The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for photography, capturing the building's grandeur against the backdrop of the bustling city.

Moreover, the Flatiron Building houses a diverse range of businesses, including restaurants, shops, and offices. Tourists can explore the building's interior, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and discovering hidden gems. The building's history is further brought to life through guided tours, offering insights into its construction, architectural features, and cultural significance.

In conclusion, the Flatiron Building presents a unique and captivating tourist destination in New York City. Its architectural marvel, historical significance, and cultural relevance make it an unforgettable experience for visitors from all over the world. Whether admiring its exterior, exploring its interior, or simply capturing its iconic image, the Flatiron Building offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of New York City.

Tourist Destination

The Flatiron Building, a triangular marvel of early 20th-century architecture, stands as a testament to New York City's rich history and unwavering commitment to preserving its architectural heritage. Designated a New York City landmark in 1966 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, the Flatiron Building has undergone meticulous restoration efforts to maintain its architectural integrity and historical significance.

One of the most notable preservation efforts involved the restoration of the building's iconic terracotta facade. Over time, the terracotta had become weathered and damaged, posing a risk to the building's structural integrity. Through a painstaking process, skilled artisans meticulously cleaned, repaired, and replaced damaged terracotta pieces, ensuring the facade's original beauty and character were preserved.

The building's interior has also been carefully restored, preserving its original architectural details and craftsmanship. The grand lobby, with its soaring ceilings, intricate tilework, and ornate plasterwork, has been meticulously restored to its former glory. The original brass elevator doors, mahogany paneling, and stained-glass windows have also been preserved, offering a glimpse into the building's opulent past.

The Flatiron Building's preservation is not merely about aesthetics; it is about safeguarding a vital piece of New York City's history. The building has witnessed countless historical events, from the rise of the city's garment industry to the evolution of its architectural landscape. Preserving the Flatiron Building ensures that future generations can appreciate its architectural significance and historical value.

Through ongoing preservation efforts, the Flatiron Building continues to stand as a beacon of architectural excellence and a testament to New York City's commitment to preserving its irreplaceable historical treasures. As visitors marvel at its unique triangular shape and intricate details, they are also witnessing a tangible connection to the city's rich past. The Flatiron Building serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural heritage for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.

Historical Preservation

The Flatiron Building, a triangular marvel in the heart of New York City, transcends its architectural brilliance to embody a powerful cultural symbol. Its distinct shape, a testament to the ingenuity of its early 20th-century architects, has etched itself into the city's skyline and collective consciousness.

As a cultural symbol, the Flatiron Building represents the dynamism and innovation that have long characterized New York City. Its construction, completed in 1902, coincided with a period of rapid urban transformation, marking a shift towards modern architecture and the city's emergence as a global metropolis. The building's unique design, defying the traditional rectangular structures of the time, became a symbol of progress and the city's embrace of the new.

The Flatiron Building's cultural significance extends beyond its architectural prowess. Its location at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, two of the city's most iconic thoroughfares, further elevates its symbolic status. This prominent position places it at the heart of the city's cultural and commercial life, making it a witness to countless historical events and societal shifts.

Over the years, the Flatiron Building has appeared in numerous works of art, literature, and film, solidifying its place in popular culture. From F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" to the 2007 film "I Am Legend," the building has served as a backdrop for stories that capture the essence of New York City.

Today, the Flatiron Building stands as a testament to the city's rich history and its enduring spirit of innovation. Its cultural significance continues to inspire artists, architects, and urban planners, reminding us of the power of design to shape not only our physical environment but also our cultural identity.

Cultural Symbol

The Flatiron Building: A Beaux-Arts Masterpiece in New York City

The Flatiron Building, a triangular marvel rising above the bustling intersection of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and East 23rd Street, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Beaux-Arts architecture in New York City. Completed in 1902, this 22-story skyscraper embodies the movement's principles of symmetry, monumentality, and ornamentation.

The building's most striking feature is its unique shape, a result of the unusual triangular plot it occupies. This form, reminiscent of a flatiron, inspired the building's nickname. The architects, Daniel Burnham and Frederick P. Dinkelberg, skillfully embraced this challenge, creating a design that not only accommodated the site's constraints but also became its defining characteristic.

The facade, clad in white terracotta and limestone, showcases the Beaux-Arts emphasis on classical details. Corinthian columns, elaborate garlands, and intricate sculptures adorn the exterior, adding a layer of sophistication and grandeur. The building's cornice, a prominent feature of Beaux-Arts architecture, is richly decorated with dentils, modillions, and egg-and-dart molding, further emphasizing the building's verticality and elegance.

Inside, the Flatiron Building boasts equally impressive Beaux-Arts elements. The lobby features a vaulted ceiling with intricate plasterwork and a grand staircase with marble steps and wrought-iron railings. The building's original elevator cabs, adorned with mahogany paneling and etched glass, offered a touch of luxury to its early occupants.

The Flatiron Building's Beaux-Arts design not only reflects the architectural trends of its time but also contributes significantly to the cityscape. Its prominent location and unique form make it a landmark, instantly recognizable and admired by New Yorkers and visitors alike. As a testament to the enduring legacy of Beaux-Arts architecture, the Flatiron Building continues to inspire awe and appreciation for its architectural brilliance and historical significance.

Beaux-Arts Architecture

The Flatiron Building, completed in 1902, stands as a testament to architectural innovation in the early 20th century. Its triangular shape, dictated by the convergence of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, posed a unique challenge for its designers. They embraced this challenge, creating a steel-framed structure that defied the traditional masonry construction of the time. This innovative use of steel allowed for a thinner and lighter building, maximizing usable space while minimizing wind resistance.

The Flatiron Building's innovative design extended beyond its structure. Its facade, composed of white glazed terracotta tiles, was a departure from the brownstone and brick prevalent in New York City. This choice not only provided a distinctive aesthetic but also enhanced the building's fire resistance. Additionally, the building's large windows, made possible by the steel frame, maximized natural light and ventilation, a novel concept at the time.

The Flatiron Building's innovative design had a significant impact on the city's skyline and architectural landscape. It ushered in an era of steel-framed skyscrapers, paving the way for the city's iconic verticality. Its unique shape and materials challenged traditional notions of design, inspiring future architects to explore new possibilities. The Flatiron Building remains a symbol of architectural innovation, a testament to the ingenuity and vision of its creators.

Architectural Innovation

The Flatiron Building: A Pioneering Steel-Framed Skyscraper

The Flatiron Building, a triangular marvel rising above the bustling streets of New York City, stands as a testament to the innovative use of steel in skyscraper construction. Completed in 1902, it was one of the first buildings to utilize a steel frame as its primary structural support, a groundbreaking feat that revolutionized the city's skyline and paved the way for future skyscrapers.

The building's unique triangular shape, dictated by the convergence of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and East 22nd Street, posed a significant challenge for traditional masonry construction. Steel, however, offered the necessary strength and flexibility to create such an unconventional form. The frame, composed of steel beams and columns, provided a lightweight yet incredibly strong skeleton, allowing the building to soar to a then-impressive height of 22 stories.

The Flatiron's steel frame not only enabled its distinctive design but also contributed to its remarkable resilience. The flexible steel structure could withstand the immense wind loads generated by its height and location, a factor crucial for a building exposed to the strong gusts sweeping through the city's avenues. This innovative use of steel not only pushed the boundaries of architectural design but also set a new standard for skyscraper construction, demonstrating the material's potential for creating towering structures that could withstand the forces of nature.

The Flatiron Building's pioneering use of steel had a profound impact on the cityscape, ushering in an era of towering steel-framed giants that redefined the New York skyline. Its legacy continues to inspire architects and engineers, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of innovation and the enduring strength of steel in shaping the modern world.

Flatiron Building

Did You Know?

Rapid Construction

Original Floors

First Black Jazz Band

Gendered Bathrooms

Highlights from Reviews

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