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Flatiron Building (Atlanta) facts for kids

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English-American Building
Flatiron-Bldg-Atlanta.jpg
Alternative names English-American Building
Flatiron Building
Georgia Savings Bank Building
Empire Life Insurance Building
General information
Type Commercial offices
Location 84 Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, Georgia
Coordinates 33°45′22″N 84°23′19″W / 33.7562°N 84.3885°W / 33.7562; -84.3885
Completed 1897
Height
Roof c. 50 m (160 ft)
Technical details
Floor count 11
Design and construction
Architect Bradford Gilbert
English-American Building
Architectural style Neo-Classical
Neo-Renaissance
NRHP reference No. 76000626
Significant dates
Designated  March 26, 1976

The English-American Building, often called the Flatiron Building, is a famous building in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. It was finished in 1897. You can find it at 84 Peachtree Street NW. The building stands on a special wedge-shaped city block. This block is between Peachtree Street NE, Poplar Street NW, and Broad Street NW.

This Atlanta Flatiron Building was completed five years before the more famous Flatiron Building in New York City. Both buildings share a similar unique shape, like an old-fashioned flatiron. The Atlanta building was designed by Bradford Gilbert. He was a well-known architect from the Chicago school. The New York building's designer, Daniel Burnham, was also from this school.

The Atlanta Flatiron Building has 11 stories. It is the city's second-oldest and still standing skyscraper. The city protects it as a historic building. It is located in the Fairlie-Poplar district of downtown Atlanta. The building is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

A Unique Shape and History

The Flatiron Building gets its name from its unusual shape. It looks like the old irons people used to press clothes. This shape comes from the way the streets meet at a sharp angle. This design was popular for buildings on triangular plots of land.

When it was built in 1897, it was a very modern building. It was one of the first tall buildings, or skyscrapers, in Atlanta. Its design showed new ways of building at that time. It quickly became a landmark in the city.

What's Inside Today?

Today, the Flatiron Building is still a busy place. It is now known as FlatironCity. It hosts many new and exciting businesses. For example, it is home to a Microsoft Innovation Center. This center helps people learn about new technology.

It also has a Women's Entrepreneurship Institute. This institute supports women who want to start their own businesses. Many other entrepreneurs and startup companies also have offices here. It is a place where new ideas and businesses can grow.

A Historic Landmark

The Flatiron Building is an important part of Atlanta's history. It shows how the city has grown and changed over time. Its listing on the National Register of Historic Places means it is recognized for its historical value. The city of Atlanta also protects it as a landmark.

Right across Peachtree Street from the Flatiron Building is another historic building. This is the Rhodes–Haverty Building. It stands on the north corner with Williams Street. These buildings together show the rich history of downtown Atlanta.

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