History Of The Flatiron Building In 60 Seconds

Formally known as the Fuller Building, the Flatiron Building in New York City is noted for its triangular shape, making it a distinctive architectural landmark across the Manhattan skyline. As one of the city’s most well-known historical buildings, visitors flock to the site not only to take in the building from up-close but to visit the Flatiron Prow Art Space where regular installations take place.

While the Flatiron Building has never been one of New York City’s tallest, it still offers incredible views of Manhattan. At 21-storeys tall, the top floor wasn’t added until three years after its completion in 1902. Designed by Chicago architect Daniel Burnham, the building was initially intended to serve as offices for Chicago contracting firm the George A. Fuller Company. Other famous landmarks spearheaded by Burnham include the Union Station in Chicago and Union Station in Washington D.C.

When construction first began, the Flatiron Building gained notoriety among locals who were convinced its triangular shape and tall height would cause it to collapse. They subsequently dubbed the structure “Burnham’s Folly.”

The limestone base covering the building’s steel frame switches to terra-cotta further upward, featuring a tiled facade also adorned with gargoyles, fleur-de-lis, and eagles which are design influences from the French and Italian Renaissance.

Named a New York City landmark in 1966, the Flatiron Building later earned its place as a national historic landmark in 1989.

Those keen on snapping a selfie with the Flatiron Building in the background can park themselves on a bench across the road in Madison Square Park. A picture with this celebrated skyscraper is the perfect memento for any visitor to New York City!

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.