2025 Theses Master's

Beneath the Metal Canopies, Beyond the Past: Branding the Industrial Heritage of the Meatpacking District

Wang, Kexin

This thesis examines the preservation of industrial heritage in New York City’s Meatpacking District, focusing on the physical manifestations of its historical past, such as metal canopies. Once a hub of industrial activity defined by meatpacking plants and warehouses, the district has transformed into a high-end mixed-use area, marked by luxury retail, hospitality, and residential development.

Although the Gansevoort Market Historic District received local landmark designation by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission in 2003, this form of designation regulates physical alterations to building exteriors rather than their use. As a result, much of the district’s industrial functionality has faded, leaving behind symbolic remnants of its past.

The study investigates the role of adaptive reuse practices and architectural elements, particularly metal canopies, in shaping the district’s evolving identity. It evaluates how these physical features contribute to preserving the district’s industrial character amid pressures of economic development. By examining these elements in the context of preservation efforts and urban branding, this thesis sheds light on how historic authenticity can be maintained while accommodating contemporary urban needs. This research aims to provide insights into preserving industrial heritage through architectural features and offering strategies that emphasize both functionality and historical integrity.