Even though it’s not scheduled to be finished for a couple of years, NYC’s iconic and historic Woolworth Building is being renovated. Built, obviously, by the five-and-dime store millionaire, Frank Woolworth and completed in 1913, the neo-Gothic style was designed by MIT-trained, Cass Gilbert. Woolworth financed the entire project personally, with the initial estimate almost tripling in amount by the time it was completed ($5 million to $13.5 million). The 58-story building was the tallest for 17 years and the slender tower “coming out of the” steel frame was new and awe-inspiring worldwide. Encompassing an entire city block, the luxe finishes included a gold ceiling and hand-laid mosaics in the lobby.
The condo conversion is underway with 34 units designed; including, a $110 million penthouse. Opening the walls has been quite interesting as newspapers, among others, from 1913 have been found between the frames. Completion is slated for 2017; but watching the progress within the interior should be exciting to watch!
One of NYC’s greatest landmarks, it became known as “Cathedral of Commerce” due to its church-like architecture and its financial tenants.
Image courtesy of: Triple Mint Blog
Circa 1930, this is an aerial view of the Woolworth Building.
Image courtesy of: NYC Vintage Images
In the lobby, a “W” is emblazoned on the central desk. The coiffer ceiling, shown above, originally decorated Frank Woolworth’s personal office and is was moved from the 40th floor to the current lobby location.
Image courtesy of: NY Curbed
