SSRG is stabilizing the unique and beloved ‘Flat Iron’ building in the historic district of Mt. Auburn. The structure, built in 1875, has been in danger of demolition for many years. Recently, public outcry—along with entities including the Greater Cincinnati Redevelopment Authority and the Cincinnati Preservation Collective—have saved the structure from the wrecking ball. However, the City of Cincinnati gets the credit for moving this stabilization project forward. Over the past few years, they have dedicated noticeable effort and funding to the building’s preservation.

The structure has a rich history, including being home to the Flat Iron Café in the 1950’s. It was also the graphic symbol that the Mt. Auburn Community Council chose for its newsletters, and was even featured in the 1993 movie Airborne. Its last known use was a video rental store, but has sat vacant and abandoned for nearly two decades.

The Cincinnati Preservation Collective included this building on its Impact Building list in 2015. They stated that its importance is based largely on its location, “It sits atop the Sycamore Street hill and is wedged between Sycamore Street and Dorchester Street at the 5-way intersection with Auburn Avenue,” they said. “The building towers over the street and is a prominent gateway into the historic Mt. Auburn neighborhood from downtown and Over-the-Rhine.”

Below are photos of our team working on the renovation. Check back soon to learn more about this project.