The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

   
James and Karla Murray, specialists in urban photography, spent more than ten years photographing the distinctive facades of family-run shops in neighborhoods throughout the five boroughs. Their brilliant documentation of New York's irreplaceable, generations-old storefronts has made headlines all over the world. For many of these establishments, the photographs mark the end of a legacy. In the wake of gentrification, vital facets of New York's cultural heritage are disappearing at an alarming rate. 
 
The influx of big box retailers and chain stores pose a serious threat to these humble institutions, and neighborhood modernization and the anonymity it brings are replacing the unique appearance and character of what were once incredibly colorful streets. Store Front is a visual guide to New York City's timeworn storefronts, a collection of powerful images that capture the neighborhood spirit, familiarity, comfort and warmth that these shops once embodied.
 
Ralph's

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
Amy's Bread

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
Murray's Cheese

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
CBGB'S

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
Lolly Pop

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
Bicycles

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
Italian American Grocery

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
Chelsea Guitars

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
B&B Meats

 

 
Addeo Bakery

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Luncheonette

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Capitol Fishing Tackle

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Film Center Cafe

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Ideal Dinettes

 

Claudio's Barber Shop

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Bay Lighting

 

Flats Fixed

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Jimmy Stationery

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Mc Sorley's Old Ale House

 

Caffe Reggio

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Jet-Set Concepts

 

Matt Umanov Guitars

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Concourse Music Center

 

Ludlow Guitar

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

Barney Greengrass

 

Porto Rico

 

The Disappearing Face of New York: 27 Wonderful Photos of Old Storefronts in New York

 
Olden Camera