NYC Facades

Full frontal view

Dormer Windows

Western Union insignia

Lower floor detail

Although it has great features, the curb appeal of this building is only so-so; it is big, red, and imposing from street level. But when you stand back, it’s actually not such a menace. I didn’t notice so many details on it when I originally went past it, however looking at the pictures now I can see quite a few.

Look also at this condo redevelopment page for the “history” and some other “images”.

Do they have enough communications equipment attached?

This was taken from Madison Square. I have been told that during the race for height with The Chrysler building, the Empire State was not expected to have a needle. Can you imagine it without the needle? (I am actually told there is such an imitator in Houston, Texas.) It would be truly awful; basically a towering, art deco warehouse. As it is, the top looks like the bridge of a ship.

EDIT: As the comment below says, the Houston building is the former Transco Tower, now known as the Williams Tower. It bears some resemblance to the Empire State Building, but definitely has an other-wordly aspect due to its futuristic glass facade. I quite like it, actually.

From left: The Knickerbocker Trust Company in 1904; in 1952, after its 1921 enlargement; and as it looks today.

From an article in the real estate section of the New York Times, March 5, 2009. Wikipedia also has an article on the building (there is a great period advertisement linked from there as well).

The article gives a history of the bulding, but it is hard to imagine from the building’s appearance today — not a trace of original facade remainds — what was there to begin with. Look inside the article also for a picture of original interior.