Century Building, Commercial building in Union Square, Manhattan, US
Description
The Century Building at 33 East 17th Street is a five-story structure with a one-and-a-half-story attic featuring ornate terracotta moldings in Queen Anne style. The exterior displays elaborate detailing across its facade that reflects the prosperity of its original owners.
History
The building was constructed between 1880 and 1881 by Arnold Constable & Company under architect J. William Schickel's design. A major fire in July 1888 caused substantial damage and resulted in significant operational changes.
Culture
The building housed the Century Publishing Company from 1881 to 1915, serving as a hub for influential magazine production. The space still carries traces of its role as a publishing center that shaped American periodical culture.
Practical
The building is open to the public today as it houses a bookstore following a 1995 renovation, making its interior accessible to visitors. The Union Square location is easy to reach and allows you to view the architecture while exploring the ground floor.
Did you know?
A fire in 1888 caused major financial losses, but what stands out is the unusual controversy that followed the incident. Investigations revealed irregularities in the emergency response that led to disciplinary action against those involved.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Manhattan).
Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site
205 m
Metronome
286 m
44 Union Square
94 m
W New York Union Square
107 m
Decker Building
92 m
Daryl Roth Theatre
185 m
Vineyard Theatre
251 m
19 Gramercy Park South
309 m
225 Park Avenue South
252 m
Gorham Building
201 m
George Washington
193 m
Samuel J. Tilden House
220 m15 Union Square West
150 m
Marquis de Lafayette
141 m
Statue of Abraham Lincoln
83 m
Bank of the Metropolis
118 m
Everett Building
47 m
Union Square Drinking Fountain
135 m
Independence Flagstaff
123 m
Judge Building
267 m
Christ Church Lutheran
299 m
Lincoln Building
261 m
Gramercy Park
323 m
AMC 19th Street East 6
183 m
The Players Club
265 m
Gramercy Park Historic District
265 m
126 Fifth Avenue
265 m
130 Fifth Avenue
294 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes