Some businesses need big factories and warehouses. Texas has its share of large spaces. Houston Contract Warehouse and Houston Fulfillment services are perfect cases of businesses that utilize large buildings. Often a growing business needs to relocate its operations leaving behind vast unused space. The transformation of warehouses and warehouse districts is a fascinating story; one that traces similar lines. Artists, looking for cheap rent and lots of space, are often the first to inhabit a declining warehouse district. As the population increases, the services begin to follow; shops, coffeehouses, bookstores and restaurants. The area, more often then not, becomes an in vogue destination and begins to gather more and more attention. Soon warehouse renovations begin and more expensive lofts, high-end stores, and trendy restaurants take root. This evolution is clearly demonstrated in the history of the Meat Packing District in New York.

The Meat Packing District was home to more then 250 slaughter houses. Cattle and hogs would come off the boats to be walked through the streets and into the factories. (There are still active processing plants and cows and pigs can be seen wandering the alleys in the wee hours.) As many of the plants began to close down the area became rundown. During the 70’s it became renowned for drugs and the sex trade. It was not a place that most people wanted to reside. Space was available and the price was right. Many artists found the large windows and open rooms perfect for studio space. The price was right and the gritty neighborhood had an off beat charm.

After the initial reincarnation, a second incarnation developed. The Meat Packing District gave itself a new personality and a new meaning as it became the heart of gay nightlife. Many notorious clubs thrived in the large buildings and the area became an alternative cultural center changing the street dynamic. Businesses profited and the area was reinvigorated. The A.I.D.S. health crisis heavily impacted the activities , but the community continued to evolve.

Architects, fashion designers, photographers, graphic designers, discovered the neighborhood as a prime spot for artistic endeavors. In 2003 the meat packing district was registered as the Gansevoort Historic District. Gansevoortwas a revolutionary war hero who had a large open market in the area. Ganesvoort was also the grandfather of Herman Melville.

Currently the neighborhood, defined by Chelsea Market to the north and Gansevoort Street to the south, is a vibrant and fashionable location with old world charm and cobblestone streets. Fine restaurants abound, along with art galleries and fashionable living spaces. The Highline Park runs through a part of the neighborhood. The Highline Park is an innovative use for an abandoned elevated train track. It has been converted into a green space with paths and flowers above the city streets. Its presence adds to the charm of this once gritty slaughter yard and guarantees that the Meat Packing District will continue to develop into a trendy location.