The biggest, boldest architectural projects in America demand unique solutions for both form and function. Dahlstrom Architectural Mouldings has provided famous clients with timeless products since 1904 -- timeless in both look and durability.
You'll be surprised by how many of these landmarks you recognize -- and have maybe visited!
Here are some of the Dahlstrom projects you've likely heard a thing or two about:
Some of the oldest skyscrapers in America feature architectural metal mouldings and other Dahlstrom products:
Constructed in 1905, the U.S. Express Building was Dahlstrom’s first contract. At twenty-six stories tall, it once towered over the streets of New York!
Designed in a Renaissance-inspired style, the building is simple yet elegant. The outside is terra cotta, and the toweresque shape allows natural light to penetrate the top floors from all sides.
As our first contract, you might think it would be a small order, but our founders ended up making 2,000 doors with matching trim for this historic building. (Disclaimer: We no longer make doors but still manufacture a wide variety of metal components.)
Did you know? The U.S. Express Company went out of business in 1914 due to the 1912 law allowing the U.S. Postal Service to offer parcel post.
(To see our 1,400+ moulding profiles dating back to the days of the U.S. Express Building, check out our catalog:)
The Singer Building was completed in 1908, boasted forty-seven floors, and was Dahlstrom’s second contract.
The Singer Building was an office building in the financial district in Manhattan. From 1908-1909, it was the tallest building in the world.
Dahlstrom produced 2,500 doors and matching trim for this architectural giant.
Unfortunately, the Singer Building was demolished in 1968 before the Landmarks Preservation Commission could save it.
Did you know? The Singer Building is the third-tallest building that has ever been destroyed, trailing only the World Trade Center Towers.
The Rockefeller Center is a masterpiece of architecture designed by John D. Rockefeller in 1930. Known as a “city within a city,” the huge structure was a centerpiece of style and the arts in NYC.
This building has been an unfailing hub of entertainment from the beginning - from being the production site of Gone With the Wind in the ‘30s to Frank Sinatra’s five sold-out shows in the ‘90s.
Dahlstrom is proud to have provided metal trim for the interior - the Rockefeller Center remains one of the world’s most impressive structures almost a hundred years later.
Did you know? Rockefeller Center comprises 19 buildings, with the original 14 buildings constructed between 1930 and 1939.
It’s impossible to mistake this building’s needle spire piercing the clouds above Manhattan. Officially opened to the public in 1931, the Empire State Building held the crown of “World’s Tallest Building” for almost forty years.
It’s an honor to have Dahlstrom metal trim products housed within this classic American icon.
Did you know? The Empire State Building is classified as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
OK, so this one's not truly about mouldings. If you’re familiar with Dahlstrom’s extensive history, you’ll remember that the company started out making doors for early elevators. The Wells Fargo building was the first location to feature a Dahlstrom elevator door.
Located in Portland, Ore., this building was completed in 1906 and is considered Portland’s first true skyscraper. The architects decided the 12-story building needed elevators, and they tasked Dahlstrom with providing the doors.
Did you know? The first commercial passenger elevator was installed in a five-story building in 1857.
The list doesn't end there. Other famous buildings featuring Dahlstrom metal mouldings include:
Want to see our classic decorative mouldings in person? You don't have to fly to NYC or Chicago. We'll ship you a free sample of your choice:
(Editor's note: This article was originally published in January 2016 and was recently updated.)
