Farmers Loan + Trust Company Building
Façade Restoration
Midtown
2025
Restoring Gothic Icons High Above Fifth
OVERVIEW
Perched on the iconic Fifth Avenue corridor directly across from the New York Public Library, the Farmers’ Loan and Trust Company Building is a distinguished example of 1920s Art Deco design.
Originally constructed in 1926 by Starrett & Van Vleck, this 25-story masonry-clad tower blends Gothic and Romanesque architectural details—most notably its ornate gargoyles. Nearly a century later, the structure remains a vital part of Midtown Manhattan’s architectural fabric. EDG was entrusted with restoring the full exterior façade of this historic property while ensuring minimal disruption to tenants and businesses in one of New York City’s busiest neighborhoods.
BUILDING HISTORY
- Original Design Starrett & Van Vleck, 1926
- Architectural Style Gothic and Romanesque
- Material Masonry facade
- Known For It's iconic gargoyles and terracotta details
- Historic Use Originally the headquarters for Farmers’ Loan & Trust, iconically located on Fifth Avenue across from the NY Public Library.
APPROACH
We assembled a multidisciplinary team of licensed architects and engineers with deep expertise in façade restoration to address the building’s complex and evolving needs.
Initial inspections using SPRAT techniques revealed significant steel deterioration, prompting a redesign of the repair strategy mid-project. Our team developed atypical exterior shoring solutions to preserve interior occupancy and collaborated in real time with the general contractor to adapt to unforeseen site conditions. Throughout, we carefully coordinated Local Law 11 compliance, navigating inspection protocols and sequencing with precision across four elevations.
FISP INSPECTION
- FISP Cycle Cycle 9A
- Inspection Access Method SPRAT
- Drops 10
- Façade Area Inspected 130,000+ SF
RESTORATION WORK
- Project Value $6,700,000
- Façade Area Restored 130,000+ SF
- Terracotta Units Replaced or Reset 300+
- Facades 4 non-regular facades
- Restoration Access Method Outrigger + pipe frames
- Gargoyle Replacement Fiberglass with custom anchorage
THE GARGOYLES OF FIFTH AVENUE
Iconic for their dramatic presence and intricate craftsmanship, the gargoyles at 475 Fifth Avenue are a hallmark of the building’s Neo-Gothic identity.
We performed close-up inspections to assess deterioration, including cracks, spalling, and failed anchors. Where feasible, original units were carefully stabilized and repaired in place using color-matched restoration mortars. For those beyond salvage, we collaborated with specialty fabricators to produce custom-cast replicas, ensuring continuity in form and detail.
IMPACT
Our work restored the architectural integrity of this Art Deco landmark while enhancing its long-term durability and resilience.
More than 300 units of terracotta were meticulously replaced or reset, and the building’s iconic gargoyles were faithfully recreated in fiberglass, anchored with custom structural systems designed to withstand wind loads over 300 feet above street level. The project’s value grew from $4 million to $6.7 million due to the scope of unforeseen structural repairs, but remained on schedule thanks to EDG’s field agility and technical coordination. The revitalized façade preserves the building’s legacy while meeting modern safety and performance standards, all achieved with minimal tenant disruption.
