218 West 57th Street

218 West 57th Street is a four-story building with white glazed brick walls and detailed Indiana Limestone ornaments in French Renaissance Revival style. The facade displays intricate architectural details that define the character of this historic block in Midtown.

The American Society of Civil Engineers established their headquarters here in 1897 as a center for professional meetings and gatherings. The building served this organization until 1917 before its purpose changed.

The structure stands as part of a two-block section on West 57th Street that developed into an artistic center between Sixth Avenue and Broadway.

The interior was converted from its original lounge and reading room layout into modern commercial spaces with escalators and elevators. Access may be limited depending on current building activities and tenant operations.

The building received official landmark status from the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission in 2008, recognizing its architectural importance. This designation protects the French Renaissance Revival facade from unwanted alterations.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1890s

Architects: Cyrus L. W. Eidlitz

Address: 20 West 57th Street

GPS coordinates: 40.76572,-73.98122

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:50