Site Background

DUMBO: Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass

History-

What is now DUMBO first developed during the beginning of the 19th century. Strategically located across the river from bustling Manhattan, the area evolved into an important location for trade and industry as piers, warehouses and factories were built along the East River. After the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, the district was known as Fulton Landing and became developed entirely with large industrial buildings to form a bustling center of trade and production. The landing provided ferry access for passengers traveling to and from Manhattan.

Gradually, industrial activity in New York City declined during the 2nd half of the 20th century. DUMBO became increasingly desolate as vacancy rates soared in the giant industrial buildings. However, a new trend began to form during the 1970's, with industrial buildings being converted for residential uses. The name was coined DUMBO by the first residential pioneers of the neighborhood in the hopes that an unattractive name would deter developers. However, their attempt was in vein as property values soared into the 21st century making DUMBO a trendy and fashionable neighborhood.

Land Use:

DUMBO is primarily comprised of 5-10 story industrial and warehouse buildings built during the 19th and early 20th centuries. While several remain used for industrial purposes, the vast majority of these structures have been converted to residential use. More contemporary development includes mid-rise condominium and apartment buildings, some of which are more than 20 stories tall.

The streets are relatively narrow in comparison with the height of the buildings, giving the neighborhood a dense feel. Some of the streets retain stone pavers as opposed to asphalt. Most of the buildings display traditional architectural vernacular used in the 19th and early 20th centuries.