The Flatiron Building, an architectural curiosity
New York is a city that can be disorienting, both for its urban layout and its architecture. The Flatiron Building is a striking example. Its name, which translates to "clothes iron building," might seem odd until you see this uniquely triangular structure. Facing Madison Square Park, wedged between 5th Avenue and Broadway, it is one of those landmarks you simply cannot miss. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989.
The genesis of the Flatiron
The plans were drafted by an American architect named Daniel Burnham, a renowned professional who also led urban planning projects in Chicago and Manila. It opened in 1902 under the name Fuller Building. At the time, it was one of the first buildings constructed using a steel frame. It is a Beaux-Arts style office building with 22 floors reaching a height of 87 meters (285 feet). Note that it features a rooftop with a view, though it is unfortunately not open to the public.
A commercial building turned residential?
Beyond its distinct style, the Flatiron was a standard office building. In the past, it was possible to step into the narrow lobby to view a brief history of the structure on the walls, though you could not visit the rest of the interior. Starting in 2020, the building was completely closed and vacated to undergo major renovations. The Covid crisis and disagreements between owners put that project on hold.
Auctioned off in 2023, the Flatiron Building has changed hands. The new owners intend to convert it into luxury residential apartments. This is a story to watch.
A bit of trivia
The facade of the Flatiron, at its narrowest point, is barely two meters wide. Early New Yorkers thought the design was so precarious that many avoided the sidewalk near it, fearing it might collapse.
As you can see, it remains one of the many curiosities in the city that never sleeps.
The Flatiron Building is an office building located on the island of Manhattan in New York. It gets its name from its shape like a... clothes iron. Do not go there just to see it, walk through the neighborhood from or toward Times Square, it is about thirty minutes away.
In the area, I recommend having a drink at the beautiful 230 Fifth rooftop. In the early evening, you can go without a reservation because the bar is huge.