Federal Office Building

The Federal Office Building is a government structure in lower Manhattan with Romanesque Revival features from the late 1800s. It displays rounded arches, ornamental stonework, and detailed masonry that form its exterior character.

The structure was designed in 1894 by architect Willoughby J. Edbrooke during a period of federal growth in New York City. It was built as the city expanded its administrative infrastructure to meet growing governmental needs.

The building's name reflects its role as a federal administrative center in Manhattan's lower district. Visitors can observe the architectural details and stonework that mark it as an important part of the city's built heritage.

The building sits in a well-served area with multiple subway stations and bus routes nearby for easy access. Keep in mind it remains an active government facility, so visitor access to interior spaces may be limited.

The structure housed both government offices and residential apartments, an unusual combination for a federal building of its era. This dual-purpose design makes it a rare example of mixed-use architecture in late 1800s government buildings.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1890s

Architects: Willoughby J. Edbrooke

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

Address: 641 Washington Street

GPS coordinates: 40.73222,-74.00861

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:22