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Flatiron's Historic Door Restored to Former Glory
17 Apr
Summary
- A missing specification document posed restoration challenges.
- Archival photos and basement artifacts aided the door's revival.
- The restored door ensures historical accuracy and modern safety.
The historic revolving door at New York's Flatiron Building, a 1910s installation, has been meticulously restored. Lacking original specifications from the Van Kannel Revolving Door Co. archives, the International Revolving Door Company faced challenges. Workers relied on archival photographs and a salvaged canopy piece found in the building's basement to guide the restoration process.
The project aimed for aesthetic identity with the original door while meeting modern functional and safety requirements. This required precise replication of early 20th-century craftsmanship. The restored door, now code-compliant for the 21st century, was reinstalled this week at Fifth Avenue and East 22nd Street.
Developers sought to honor the Flatiron Building's historical significance during its conversion into luxury condominiums. The restoration, costing in the mid-six figures, demonstrates a commitment to preserving the landmark's heritage for future custodianship.
