History and architecture
An important example of the Moorish style (with Venetian touches), with a profusion of terra-cotta embellishment that enlivens and adds variety to the facade, the Union Building (originally known as the Decker Building) testifies to the interaction between New York and Chicago architects. Convincingly attributed to John H. Edelmann, mentor and friend to Chicago architect Louis Sullivan, the Decker Building was designed by Edelmann while employed by New York architect Alfred Zucker. Edelmann's most significant extant work, the building, located on Union Square West and built in 1892-93, originally housed the Decker Piano Company, one of many firms devoted to artistic enterprises that were once centered around the square.
Sources and further reading
This history comes from the Landmarks app’s historical catalog. Names and building uses may reflect the period described.