Germania Bank Building, Bank building in Bowery, Manhattan, United States.
The Germania Bank Building is a six-story structure on Bowery featuring granite facades, rounded arch windows, and ornate copper decorative elements at its roofline. The edifice displays classical Beaux-Arts characteristics and now serves as commercial space.
The building was designed in 1899 by architect Robert Maynicke and initially served as a financial institution. The structure underwent various uses after the original bank merged with other financial institutions in 1927.
Photographer Jay Maisel used this building as his residence and studio from 1966 to 2015, filling it with extensive collections of artworks and artifacts. This artistic approach turned the space into a private gathering place for creative people and art enthusiasts.
The building currently operates as commercial space and requires scheduled visits with proper arrangements. Visitors should be aware that access is limited and security measures are in place at the entrance.
The building was purchased in 1966 for about 102,000 dollars and later sold for much more to a developer. This dramatic increase in value reflects how the art world and neighborhood transformation shaped the property.
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