Culturally Inclined Flatiron
This month’s Culturally Inclined focuses on the Flatiron District named after the iconic triangular-shaped 1902 Fuller Building at the intersection of Broadway and Fifth Avenue designed by Chicago’s Daniel Burnham as a vertical Renaissance palazzo with Beaux-Arts styling. Later coined the Flatiron Building for its resemblance to the heavy, black metal clothing iron of the times.
Architectural Changes in Flatiron
The area’s ever-changing economic use and architectural changes throughout its’ history layers many references to historical sites. The community uses multiple names to refer to these sites due to the various fads of commercial use through history. An example of such names are as follow:
- “The Ladies Mile | Fashion Row” due to the major department stores in the 1800s traversing Sixth Avenue now home to big brand box stores.
- “The Toy District” the period where the Annual American International Toy Fair took place in two buildings on Fifth Avenue designed by architect Robert Maynicke originally named Fifth Avenue Building and later recognized as the International Toy Center Building currently home to the Lego store and Eataly.
- The “Photo District” with the rapid increase of photography studios associated commerce such as the Penumbra Foundation, a non-profit organization that brings together the Art and Science of Photography and first-of-its-kind Fuji Film Concept Store, called Wonder Photo Shop an interactive retail space to explore new products and techniques of photography.
- And, “Silicon Alley” with the proliferation of tech start-ups in the ’90s.
Madison Square Park
At the heart of Flatiron is the 6.5 acre, Madison Square Park. Named after our famed 4th President, it’s where art, music, food, conservation, and commerce converge. Presently, Madison Square Art, who presents commissioned sculptures by distinguished artists to the public, is showcasing a 40-foot Big Bling Sculpture by Martin Puryear.
Birthplace of Theodore Roosevelt
Additionally, this area is the birthplace to our 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt raised in a local townhouse on 28 West 20th Street, which happens to be near my favorite secret spot: Chocolat Moderne for some delectable, award-winning luxe chocolates.
Green Market in Union Square
Then head to the world-famous Green Market in Union Square to pick up the region’s local produce and to plan your holiday feast. Open: Monday | Wednesday | Friday, and Saturday.
Restaurants in Flatiron
The holiday countdown has begun. And, so we all feel the pressure of time moving forward and desire to accomplish so many goals before year-end; take the time to explore this area’s history, shopping, small businesses, and high caliber restaurants. Some favorites are ABC Kitchen | Black Barn | Blue Water Grill | Clock Tower | Cosme | Craft | Eleven Madison | Gramercy Tavern | Mari Varnna | and Tocqueville.
Stay In Touch
I enjoy hearing from you, learning from you, and creating memories together. November has arrived and Thanksgiving Day is in the near site. Perhaps it’s because the year is ending. However, I find myself reflecting upon how thankful I am for the bounties bestowed. Especially for those special moments and relationships, I have spent time with throughout the year.
Quote of New York
“I look out the window and I see the lights and the skyline and the people on the street rushing around looking for action, love, and the world’s greatest chocolate chip cookie, and my heart does a little dance.” — Nora Ephron
