Former Metropolitan Industrial Bank
99-01 Queens Blvd
1952, Philip Birnbaum
Located at the boundary of the neighborhood, this irregularly-shaped building is a unique example of early International Style in Queens. Designed by Philip Birnbaum, the mixed-use building received a "1st prize" award by the Queens Chamber of Commerce and it's regarded as his most notable work.
A New York native, Birnbaum studied at Columbia University. During his career, he designed over 300 apartment buildings across the city, and was praised for the efficiency of his layouts. He received several 1st prize awards in partnership with builder Alfred Kaskel.
The building included the legendary Hollywood Lanes bowling alley, which operated from 1952 to 2002, and featured 30 lanes as well as a lounge, and was the site of major tournaments.
The bank façade features stainless-steel and granite finns, which also divide the storefronts. A curved corner with a short flight of stairs marks the main entrance, leading to a double-height lobby illuminated by floor to ceiling windows. The interior maintains its blue terrazzo floors with contrasting silver motifs in the Art Deco style, and a teakwood balcony with stainless steel accents. It served as a bank until 2015, and is currently a Mount Sinai medical facility.