Discover the history of the Chrysler Building, an architectural wonder of the 20th century.

The Chrysler Building is one of the most famous buildings in New York City. However, this classic skyscraper has had a journey full of pitfalls. Let’s discover the history of this New York landmark.

The start of the Chrysler Building’s turmoil

Located on the East Side of Manhattan, New York, the Chrysler Building is a tall building easily recognized by its rounded, arrow-shaped top. One of New York’s most famous buildings, the Chrysler Building is widely considered a symbol of the city’s Art Deco style. Less than 320 meters in height, the construction of this sixteen-story building was commissioned by American businessman Walter Chrysler in the early 1920s.

The construction of the building later took only two years, from 1928 to 1930, and when it was completed, it held the record of being the tallest building in the world. He held this position for eleven months, until the construction of the Empire State Building was completed. Throughout this period, many riots surrounded the Chrysler Building. At the beginning of the construction of the building, the economic situation was very good, the United States being in a phase of full financial growth.

But it didn’t last. In 1929, World War II broke out in Europe, and the West – including the United States – plunged into an inevitable economic crisis. Although the construction was completed, the inauguration of the building took place in a tense and dangerous atmosphere. As an obvious display of luxury and luxury, the Chrysler Building has been the target of criticism. Regardless, many also saw this building as a symbol of hope for a better future.

Back after four decades of decline

Therefore, the skyscraper still opened its doors, and even did well, especially compared to other buildings built at the same time, including the Empire State Building. However, this was not the only problem that the Chrysler Building had to face throughout its history. In 1953, the Chrysler family finally made the decision to sell the building, and from there it faced nearly 40 years of decline. In fact, the different owners of the skyscraper series have not maintained it, and the status and attendance of the complex has continued to decline.

In the 1960s, the building even had to face serious problems with cracks, water leaks and waste accumulation, then debt problems and unpaid taxes. From there, the Chrysler Building will pass through different owners who will undertake various renovations, never seeing the end of the tunnel. Finally, it was only in the 2010s that the skyscraper got all its beauty. However, the building has still had to face several conflicts, mainly management problems, but also the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Regardless, the Chrysler Building is still in the New York landscape and major plans are underway for its operation. To go even further, discover the history of the Empire State Building, another architectural wonder of the 20th century.