While New York City is a place of constant growth and change, it is also a city filled with numerous architectural wonders from the past. Sadly, as many New Yorkers are saying goodbye to some of the city’s fantastic buildings and older architecture, not much is done to save the more interesting aspects from a landfill. That’s why whenever older buildings are being renovated or demolished, the team of architecturologists from Olde Good Things work tirelessly to uncover and preserve these architectural artifacts.
Olde Good Things recently spent time salvaging pieces from several late 19th century buildings in the West Broadway city block in the Tribeca neighborhood, just a short walk from Ground Zero. The area, scheduled to be developed for condominiums and retail space, held multiple unique architectural details.
One of the many reclaimed pieces brought back from this Tribeca neighborhood were an abundance of original ornate ceiling tin. Tin ceilings were popular in businesses and homes until around the beginning of the 20th century and feature intricate stamped designs. These tin ceiling tiles will either be sold individually, or the OGT craftsmen will turn them into beautiful frames and ornate mirrors in a multitude of colors – perfect for any commercial or residential restoration projects.
Another interesting architectural feature recovered from this property were several original wrought iron balconies and fire escapes. Developed in the latter part of the 19th century for New York’s tenement apartments, wrought iron balconies and fire escapes soon found uses in other commercial, residential and industrial buildings. These reclaimed wrought iron balconies and fire escapes would add an unexpected element of classic city chic to any renovation.
Also recovered from our recent trip are several interior and exterior wooden doors. These doors, some of which include the original glass windows or hand-lettered company names, can be incorporated in modern homes to create a unique design style. These doors are also especially popular for use as exterior doors in older buildings.
While preservationists and those who love the “old” New York lament the demolition of these older properties, Olde Good Things is thrilled to be able to help save what we can so others may be able to repurpose or reuse these pieces of architectural history.
Whether you’re interested in one of these great architectural artifacts from this Tribeca neighborhood, or you’re looking for other unique antique features, you’re always welcome at any of our Olde Good Things stores or at our webstore. We’re sure the perfect piece of history awaits you.
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