Flatiron Building Landmark Status

Elena Liseykina/Getty Images

It's been 50 years since New York City's Flatiron Building became an official landmark.

When it was first conceived by skyscraper architect Daniel Burnham, the turn-of-the-century structure—famed for its wedge footprint and mix of Renaissance embellishment and steel construction—was met with skepticism. People thought it would collapse, and took to calling it "Burnham's Folly."

Now it's one of the city's most beloved pieces of architecture, and its triangular shape (to fill the odd-shaped slice of intersection between Fifth Avenue and Broadway) remains striking.

When the building was acquired in 2005 by Sorgente Group of America, there was speculation it would be converted into a hotel. At this time, however, the real estate investment company's president Veronica Mainetti says the only plans are to “[preserve] Flatiron's legacy and beauty while also keeping it updated to stand the test of time."

For those who want to celebrate the building's anniversary, consider taking a self-guided walking tour of the Flatiron District. Highlights include the world’s first Shake Shack, where the global brand began as a food truck in Madison Square park. Find a bench and enjoy your ShackBurger with a view of "Burnham's Folly" and then check out some of the ongoing art installations inside the park.

For those not heading to New York any time soon, get in the spirit by checking out the photos below.

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