Abandoned AmericaDec 4, 2022

A hall of mirrors in the abandoned Bell Labs complex in Holmdel, NJ Birthplace of more inventions than I can list here (follow the link for a rundown) and architect Eero Saarinen's swan song, it was saved from demolition and lives on as Bell Works.

Gallery/info: https://www.abandonedamerica.us/bell-labs

#science #abandoned #photography #history #art

Holmdel, New Jersey's Abandoned Bell Labs : The Idea Factory

One of the most innovative building designs where many of the 20th century's biggest scientific breakthroughs were made almost met the wrecking ball.

Show threadMatt BlazeDec 4, 2022

@AbandonedAmerica I worked in that building for many years, and it is the place that gave me permission to despise a certain type of celebrated mid-century architecture.

Stunning from the outside and from the atrium, but utterly dehumanizing as a creative working environment. Alcatraz-style layout, with identical, windowless offices. The great work that was done there was done in spite of the place (or at other Labs locations).

The perfect set for "Severance", though.

Show threadJake Ouellette
@mattblaze @AbandonedAmerica have you been there recently? I went a couple years ago and they had converted it to a mall with office spaces for startups & cafes. A bit surreal, but interesting, renovation. They even used it for mass vaccinations with the first covid vaccines iirc
Dec 4, 2022 at 11:24pmWeb
Show threadMatt BlazeDec 4, 2022
@Jakeout @AbandonedAmerica I've not. I do want to stop by there some day.
Show threadNorman WilsonDec 5, 2022
@mattblaze @Jakeout @AbandonedAmerica I've never been to HO. Haven't figured out how to get there on transit.