Walt Whitman Mall, South Huntington, NY 1963

This authentic 1960s color photograph, captured in 1963, highlights the avant-garde interior design of the Walt Whitman Mall in South Huntington, New York. The archival image focuses on a series of large, kinetic art mobiles suspended from the mall’s drop-grid ceiling. These mid-century modern sculptures feature thin wire arms balanced with geometric panels in vibrant yellow, white, and silver, reflecting the artistic influence of Alexander Calder common in public spaces of the era. Below the sculptures, clerestory windows provide natural light, while indoor planters with lush green foliage enhance the climate-controlled environment. The mall, which opened in 1962, was named after the famous poet who was born nearby and served as a premier shopping destination for Long Island’s growing suburban population. While the Walt Whitman Mall (now known as Walt Whitman Shops) has undergone several major luxury redevelopments and the original mid-century decor has been replaced with contemporary finishes, the building remains a thriving retail center anchored by high-end department stores. This factual record preserves the sophisticated architectural and artistic details that defined the early American indoor shopping mall experience. All our images are available as royalty-free instant downloads for use in books, media, and creative projects – or make your own prints for home, work, or as a truly unique gift.