Fake Buildings in NYC: Hidden Gems & Secrets of the Subway

New York City is known for its expensive real estate, with every square inch commanding a high price. But amidst this pricey landscape, there’s a hidden world of "fake buildings", structures that have been around for over a century in various neighborhoods. While these fake facades may go unnoticed by even locals, they offer a unique glimpse into the city's history and infrastructure.

Why Are There Fake Buildings in NYC?

The answer is simpler than you might think: they serve an important purpose. Many buildings in New York were built with facades or renovated to accommodate the city's extensive underground tunnel system. These structures are not haunted or secret government outposts as some might believe, but rather ventilation shafts and emergency escape routes for subway users.

Functioning as Vital Infrastructure

These "fake buildings" act as vents to maintain air circulation in the tunnels used by millions of vehicles each year. They also serve as emergency escape routes for subway passengers in case of emergencies. Some of these structures are simply renovated to adapt to specific needs, while others are completely fake, with no back walls, roofs, or windows.

Famous Examples of Fake Buildings in New York

You can find these hidden gems throughout New York City, with some notable examples including:

• 58 Joralemon Street, Brooklyn, NY: This Brooklyn townhouse acts as an emergency exit and ventilation area for the subway.
• 4 FDR Four Freedoms Park, New York, NY: This building houses a power conversion station that supports the operation of the New York subway.
• Canal and Spring Street intersection, Manhattan: This building serves as ventilation for the Holland Tunnel, connecting Manhattan to New Jersey.
• 11th Street and 7th Avenue, Manhattan, NY: This area was designed to support subway air circulation, ensuring the health and safety of public transportation users.
• 33 Thomas Street, New York, NY: This building is rumored to be a headquarters for the NSA or a secret government facility supporting the city's infrastructure.

While some owners are open about the purpose of these buildings, they all continue to serve their purpose, supporting the city's infrastructure. Some, like the building at 33 Thomas Street, might even be linked to government agencies or secret infrastructure networks.

Not Just a New York Thing

Other major cities like London, Toronto, and Paris also utilize fake buildings to accommodate infrastructure needs without compromising the aesthetic appeal of their environments. These structures are designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, mimicking the architectural style of houses or classic buildings.

Examples of Fake Buildings in Other Cities:

• Paris: 145 Rue la Fayette
• Toronto: 29 Duncan Street and 640 Millwood Road
• London: 23/24 Leinster Gardens

In Toronto, for instance, there are over 250 ventilation stations disguised as small houses, but with only three sides and no roofs.

A Unique Discovery

These hidden gems add an intriguing layer to the urban landscape, revealing the unseen functions that support the city's infrastructure or even serve as facilities protecting public interests. Whether you are a tourist or a local, knowing the signs of these "fake buildings" will enhance your appreciation of New York City and its unique secrets.