Fred F. French Building, Art Deco skyscraper at Fifth Avenue and 45th Street, Manhattan, United States.
The Fred F. French Building is a skyscraper on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan defined by stepped rooflines that rise in tiers across its height. Its exterior combines limestone, brick, and terra cotta in an Art Deco style that was modern for its time.
The building was completed in 1927 and became the tallest structure on Fifth Avenue at that moment, marking a turning point in Manhattan's growth. This construction represented the architectural ambition and economic expansion of the 1920s.
The exterior displays ancient Near Eastern influences through bronze doorways carved with mythological scenes and ornamental reliefs that stand out in the Manhattan skyline. These artistic details reflect how 1920s designers drew inspiration from distant civilizations and exotic design traditions.
The building sits at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 45th Street, easily reachable by public transportation in Midtown. Visitors can step into the main lobby to view the interior design features and decorative elements up close.
Inside, the lobby features Roman travertine floors and marble walls sourced from Saint Genevieve, with patterned glass chandeliers hanging overhead that add warmth to the commercial space. This lavish interior contrasts sharply with typical office building lobbies of the era.
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