At the turn of the 20th century, the United States was riding a wave of money and optimism. Between 1870 and 1914, architects leaned in, blending steel, glass, and lavish ornament to create buildings designed to turn heads. Grand hotels, dramatic towers, and showy public spaces transformed city streets into open-air displays of ambition. Many still stand today, showing off their craftsmanship. Keep scrolling to discover the Belle Époque gems that continue to define skylines and spark a little architectural envy.
#1: Flatiron Building – New York City, NY (1902)
The Flatiron Building was designed by Daniel Burnham and opened in 1902, becoming one of Manhattan’s landmarks. Its wedge shape fits neatly into the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, giving it a triangular footprint that stands out among nearby rectangular skyscrapers. At 22 stories, it was one of the tallest buildings in the city at the time. Also, the limestone and terra-cotta façade has held up for over a century.
