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Downtown Trophy Club is a classic example of an Art Deco skyscraper.
It was built in 1930 as home of the Downtown Athletic Club; an
exclusive private club and home of the famous Heisman Trophy which
the club awarded to the outstanding NCAA college football player of
each year.
Membership to the Downtown Athletic Club was open to lawyers
and executives only and the club was considered one of the most
elite private sports facilities in New York. It housed a large
gymnasium, tennis and squash courts and at one time even an indoor
golf course. Out of state members could rent apartments on the
uppermost floors during a stay in Manhattan.
The club shut down only in 2001, after September 11th. The
building was subsequently acquired by the largest real estate
developer in Manhattan's Downtown Area, The Moinian Group, and is
now being offered for sale as exclusive condominium
residences.
Since the building is a registered landmark, detailed
renovation has lovingly restored the original glory of the Art Deco
structure. Starrett & Van Vleck were the building's architects
when it was erected between 1929 and 1930.
Mottled orange brick, laid in subtle patterns, was used to
create visual interest on the facade. The irregular massing reflects
the original configuration inside (exercise facilities, member's
areas and a residential part on the uppermost floor). It should be
mentioned, that a brick building provides for a much more pleasant
living space than a modern steel and glass construction. This is due
to the unique insulating property of brick; brick retains heat
better than large glass or steel fronts and provides better
protection from the cold and heat outside. Brick also enhances the
comfort level of the atmosphere inside a building because of its
ability to balance variations in humidity levels which is a major
problem in New York City. Brick's mass also make it a very effective
noise insulator.
Architecturally, the building design shows strong vertical
lines done to convey the idea of speed - very fitting for a sports
related building. Several setbacks provide outdoor space and all but
the apartments on very low floors are open and bright.
There are 5 express elevators to provide speedy access to
even the uppermost floors.
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