Since Summer in NYC is officially in full swing, I thought it’d be fun to share some quirky, lesser-known facts about the architectural wonders our city has to offer. So, sit back, grab a glass of iced tea (or lemonade if that’s your thing) and let’s dive into these fascinating tidbits that paint a fun picture of New York City‘s architectural scene.
1. The Subway System’s Architectural Secret
New York City is famous for its extensive subway system, but did you know there are some hidden, unused stations lurking under the streets? One of the most interesting is the abandoned City Hall Subway Station. Designed by architects Heins & LaFarge, this station was built to showcase a sophisticated yet decorative style, as depicted on its elaborate Guastavino tile arches and skylights. The reason it was closed? Trains eventually became too long for the station’s curved platform, making it functionally obsolete. What a shame, but at least the beautifully preserved space occasionally offers a secret treat for those few lucky enough to have a tour.
2. The «Fake» Townhouses for Aesthetic Purposes
You’ve probably crossed paths with one of the more discreet pieces of NYC architecture without even realizing it. Next time you meander down Brooklyn Heights’ ever-charming Joralemon Street, pay attention to the seemingly ordinary townhouse at 58 Joralemon Street. This five-story Greek Revival building was built in 1847 as a private residence, but later it was converted to a ventilation shaft for the subway system. If you notice the blacked-out windows, that’s your telltale sign that it’s a front for keeping our beloved subway system from over-heating. Who would have thought?
3. The Surviving «Tin Pan Alley«
In the heart of NoMad on West 28th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenue, you’ll find a row of historic buildings from the late 19th-early 20th century. These buildings witnessed the birth of American popular music, housing famous music publishers, songwriters, and vaudeville performers. The unique architecture of these buildings represents the period’s characteristic artistic features with iron facades and intricate details. And the name? Well, it’s believed that the sound of pianos coming from these offices resembled the sound of tin pans clinking together. Next time you take a stroll down this storied alley, listen closely to see if you can hear the echoes of a bygone era.
4. The «Spite House«
For our final fun fact, let’s head to Manhattan’s Upper West Side to witness an architecture lover’s worst nightmare—the «spite house.» It might sound like something out of a horror movie, but this term refers to a building constructed purely out of spite or malice towards a neighbor. At 265 West 89th Street, you’ll find a 5-foot-wide, 43-foot-tall sliver of a building wedged between two more sizable structures. Why, you ask? After an argument with the neighbor, the plot’s owner decided to intentionally build this thin house to block the neighbor’s view. While this house might not be the most spacious, it certainly has one whopping good story attached to it.
Well, my fellow architectural aficionados, I hope you enjoyed these quirky facts about New York City’s architectural scene. Now, while you’re out enjoying the glorious sunshine and soaking up the good vibes, you can impress your friends with the whimsical stories hidden within our city’s concrete jungle. Keep your eyes open, and you never know what other marvels you may uncover!
Until next month, stay cool and architecturally-inspired!
