Key Takeaways:
- The Grand Concourse in The Bronx is a major boulevard renowned for its significant collection of Art Deco apartment buildings from the 1920s and 1930s.
- Inspired by Paris’s Champs-Élysées, it was designed by Louis Risse and opened in 1909.
- Key Art Deco features include geometric patterns, streamlined forms, vibrant mosaics, and functional interior designs like sunken living rooms.
- Notable buildings include the Fish Building (1150 Grand Concourse), 1188 Grand Concourse, and the Park Plaza Apartments.
- The area is recognized as a historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
The Grand Concourse stands as a monumental boulevard in The Bronx, often called its “Champs-Élysées.” While impressive in scale, its true cultural treasure lies in the stunning collection of Art Deco apartment buildings lining its path. This architecture guide explores these landmarks, delving into the history and unique style that make the Grand Concourse a must-see historic district for anyone interested in NYC culture.
From Parisian Dream to Bronx Reality: The Concourse’s Story
Who envisioned the Grand Concourse? The idea sparked in 1890 with Louis Aloys Risse, a French immigrant engineer who dreamed of creating a grand, Parisian-style boulevard for New York. His vision was part of the “City Beautiful” movement, aiming to bring elegance and better urban design to growing cities.
When was it built? Construction began in 1894, and the main stretch officially opened to traffic in 1909, with an extension completed later. It was designed to be spacious, 180 feet wide, with separate lanes for different types of traffic and tree-lined medians.
How did Art Deco arrive? The real building boom happened later. The arrival of subway lines, like the Jerome Avenue Line in 1917 and the IND Concourse Line in 1933, made the area highly accessible. This spurred massive residential development, attracting middle-class families. During the 1920s and especially the 1930s, the fashionable Art Deco style dominated, resulting in nearly 300 apartment buildings showcasing this modern aesthetic.
What Makes Bronx Art Deco Unique?
Bronx Art Deco, particularly along the Grand Concourse, has its own distinct flavor compared to the skyscrapers of Manhattan or the hotels of Miami Beach.
- Geometric Flair: Expect bold geometric shapes, zigzag patterns (chevrons), and streamlined forms inspired by the machine age.
- Material World: Look for decorative brickwork, often in contrasting colors, alongside modern materials like steel, glass, aluminum, and terracotta details.
- Ornamental Details: Many buildings feature vibrant mosaic panels (like the famous Fish Building), decorative stonework, and stylized motifs.
- Functional Elegance: Inside, these apartments were designed for modern living, often featuring sunken living rooms, spacious foyers, parquet floors, and ample light.
- Residential Focus: Unlike other districts, the Grand Concourse is famed for its residential Art Deco buildings, offering a unique look at how the style was adapted for everyday living.
Must-See Art Deco Buildings on the Concourse
While hundreds of buildings show Art Deco influence, some stand out:
- The Fish Building (1150 Grand Concourse)
- Architect: Jacob M. Felson
- Built: 1936-1937
- Why Visit: Famous for its stunning, colorful mosaic entrance panels featuring whimsical fish and aquatic plants. It’s a true Art Deco gem.
- 1188 Grand Concourse
- Architect: Jacob M. Felson
- Built: 1936-1938
- Why Visit: Note the distinctive “saw tooth” pattern of the facade and the elegant pink marble framing the entrance.
- Park Plaza Apartments (1005 Jerome Ave, near the Concourse)
- Architects: Horace Ginsbern and Marvin Fine
- Built: 1931
- Why Visit: One of the earliest and most celebrated Art Deco apartment houses in The Bronx, known for its sleek lines and ornate details.
- 1855 Grand Concourse
- Architect: Thomas Dunn
- Built: 1936
- Why Visit: Features cream-colored brick with striking orange pilaster details and a dynamic zigzagged facade.
- 2121 Grand Concourse
- Architect: Horace Ginsbern
- Built: 1936
- Why Visit: Showcases pronounced zigzag styling with cream brick and orange horizontal bands.
Preserving a Legacy
The Grand Concourse faced decline in the mid-20th century, but revitalization efforts began in the 1980s. Recognizing its unique architectural heritage was key.
Historic Recognition: The Grand Concourse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on April 15, 2008. A significant portion was also designated as a New York City Historic District by the Landmarks Preservation Commission in 2011.
Why it Matters: These designations help protect the buildings from inappropriate alterations and encourage preservation, ensuring this architectural legacy endures. Community groups and organizations like the Art Deco Society of New York continue to advocate for these treasures.
Planning Your Visit
How to Get There:
- The IND subway lines (B and D trains) run directly under the Grand Concourse, making it easily accessible. Key stops include 161st Street-Yankee Stadium, 167th Street, Tremont Avenue, and Fordham Road.
What to Do:
- 🚶 Walking Tour: The best way to appreciate the architecture is on foot. Start around 161st Street and walk north, keeping an eye out for the distinctive facades and lobby details.
- 📸 Photography: Bring your camera! The geometric patterns, colorful mosaics, and grand entrances make for great photos.
- 🏛️ Bronx Museum of the Arts: Located at 1040 Grand Concourse (at 165th St), it’s a perfect cultural stop along your architectural tour.
Conclusion
The Grand Concourse is more than just a major road; it’s a living museum of Art Deco design, reflecting a key period in The Bronx’s history and culture. Exploring these architectural landmarks offers a fascinating glimpse into the style, aspirations, and urban development of the 1930s. Thanks to preservation efforts, these masterpieces continue to define the character of this iconic historic district.