When the Woolworth Building was completed in 1913, it was the tallest building in the world. Nicknamed the “Cathedral of Commerce” and designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert, it embodied an elegant Gothic Revival style and was a symbol of New York City’s economic boom. The completion of the skyscraper was such a seminal achievement in architecture and construction that then-President Woodrow Wilson ceremoniously and remotely flicked on its lights by pressing a button in Washington, DC.

In the subsequent century-plus, the building has become one of the most recognizable elements of the skyline. People still travel from all over the world to see it, and now, the top 30 floors have been transformed into luxury Tribeca residences by none other than Thierry W Despont, a man well- known for spectacular restorations.

Despont’s firm has worked on everything from the Ritz in Paris, The Carlyle in New York, and the Getty Center in Los Angeles to Claridge’s in London, the Divan Hotel in Istanbul, and the Statue of Liberty herself. When it comes to preserving, illuminating, and improving legendary structures of the past, Despont and his team are true masters.

For this project, Despont collaborated with SLCE Architects, a firm recognized for their talent for space conservation and exquisite lighting, and they have ensured that every inch of these luxury Tribeca residences is bright and open. With the facade as inspiration and as the starting point for a deft extraction of the building’s existing beauty, the 33 cohesive and contemporary residences crafted by Despont also display his talent for working outside of narrow definitions of eras and traditions.

The massive open living rooms feature solid oak herringbone flooring and stunning views of the glimmering cityscape. The eat-in kitchens are outfitted with luminous Calacatta Caldia marble countertops (also present in the bathrooms) and backsplashes, as well as premium Miele appliances.

The loving renovation of the interiors and exteriors carefully emphasized and celebrated elements of the original design throughout the building. In fact, the lobby’s incredibly detailed coffered ceiling was relocated from Frank W. Woolworth’s office and fully restored. However, though a resident may often feel enchanted by the old-world grandeur of the building, the amenities, which include a 50-foot pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a glamorous lounge, are as modern as they come.

The Woolworth Building has been an icon in Tribeca for over 100 years, and now, through the artistry of Thierry W Despont and SLCE Architects, The Woolworth Tower Residences have become some of the most desirable new residential destinations in the city.

Learn more about the design team and their inspiration for renovation of The Woolworth Tower Residences.