Streamline Moderne (1930s-1940s)

The Streamline Moderne style is important to the architectural history of the downtown commercial block. An amendment to the National Housing Act of 1935 encouraged storefront remodeling with $50,000 loans to business owners that were partially insured by the federal government. In an attempt to pump-prime the economy during the Great Depression, storefronts were remodeled in the new shiny, streamlined, machine aesthetic that would encourage Americans to look positively into the future and purchase the latest products. Opaque structural glass, porcelain enamel tiles, glass block, glazed brick, stainless steel, and aluminum screening all characterize the Streamline Moderne style.

The building in the two images below was constructed during the Streamlined Moderne era. Notice the long, low form and modern materials.

Streamline Moderne: Image courtesy of Elizabeth André

Streamline Moderne: Image courtesy of Elizabeth André

An older façade exists beneath the porcelain enamel tile of the Streamline Moderne era. The building in the image below is exemplary of the type of renovations seen during the 1930s and 1940s.

Streamline Moderne Façade: Image courtesy of Elizabeth André