This low-rise bank was built to fit into the surrounding residential neighborhood, but its design is distinctly mid-century. Sitting on a corner lot, the building is oriented to the street with an elliptical glass and metal window bay surrounded by entrance areas clad in white brick. The drive-thru teller stations exist behind the building.
The Pickman Building, named for its prominent local developer, is a six-story corporate style office complex with underground parking, office space, and retail space. Although the exact reason for its construction is unclear, its proximity to Queensborough Hall and other municipal offices most likely played a role. The exterior is of glazed white and blue brick with aluminum trim and ribbon style windows. The striking entrance is surrounded by porcelain and marble with the building name displayed in metal lettering.
This administration building was constructed in 1963, on the site of the new Queens Botanical Garden. The previous garden was in Flushing Meadows Park but was moved to a neighboring plot to accommodate construction for the 1963-64 World’s Fair. The building had stone walls and glass expanses to allow for viewing out onto the garden. Slate floors, exposed wooden beams, and wooden decks also helped the building blend into its surroundings.
Closed in early 2014, the Pan American Motor Inn’s future is unclear but the building remains. It has an elliptical design, curving out to to the street on both ends. The first floor is recessed to allow access for pedestrians and vehicles. The yellow brick in the window areas bring a pop of color to the otherwise unrelieved exposed concrete frame.