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A double story flagship store for a European retailer was created within a historic building on Fifth Avenue, at the corner of Central Park and across from the iconic Plaza Hotel. The space was envisioned to take full advantage of its unique location, with framed views opening up to the Avenue and the Park. The project was presented and unanimously approved by both the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission and the location's historic district Community Board.
Design by Vudafieri Saverino Partners
Completed with Valerio Architects (acting as architect of record)
The existing features of the unusual double height space were centralized and emphasized to create a light and airy shop, differing from the majority of retail experiences.
Existing historical aspects of the space, such as the open central curved staircase and balustrade, were preserved and incorporated into the new design. Cues were taken from other existing or recorded historical features for new design elements, such as the interior finish materials and new wrought iron railing infill panels.
The original features of the Landmarked facades, obscured by decades of renovations, are restored and celebrated in the new exterior facades.
