When it first opened in 1913, the Woolworth Building was part of a “man's world.” It was designed by a man and constructed by many more. Since then, fortunately, NYC and the real estate development industry have grown to embrace, learn, and benefit from countless talented women. As part of Women's History Month, we speak to members of The Woolworth Tower Residences team about their roles in the reimagining of this remarkable Tribeca landmark.
Women of Woolworth (or “WOW”)
At the heart of the Woolworth Building’s transformation into contemporary luxury condos was a development team run by women. They called themselves Women of Woolworth, or simply “WOW.” Says Alchemy’s Senior Development Project Manager, Anna Zimmerman, who worked on the building's facade restoration and structural modification: "Sitting down for a meeting, it felt like a shift in the real estate industry. For the first time in my career, women were all around the table."
Meshing Old with New
The task of turning this Manhattan landmark into a condo building that spoke to today's luxury NYC market demanded a spectrum of skills. Aiding the WOW team was a roll call of female designers, consultants, superintendents, tradespersons, suppliers, and others.
"A point of personal pride was the incredible number of talented women who worked on the project," says Alchemy Partner - Project Management, Lucia Finn. Kelley Haley, Alchemy’s Project Manager, explains that showcasing the building's original grandeur while making it modern and innovative was the overriding mantra: "Whether it was integrating original decorative metal panels into new kitchen backsplashes," Haley says, "or reusing restored historic coping stones around a brand new-state-of the art pool."
A Unique Project to Be Proud Of
One look at the Woolworth's heritage apartments infused with contemporary chic—or the lobby's breathtakingly restored coffered ceiling—confirms the team outdid themselves.
"It was an affirmation that if you have strong women working together, you get the organization, endurance, and skill necessary to solve the puzzle," says Lucia Finn.
Adds Lauren Mantia, Alchemy’s Marketing & Design Partner, "I am proud that our design respected the building's history and original architecture and helped enliven this landmark for the 21st century." What's been achieved here now stands as a beacon of possibility for the many other women considering a career in the industry.
Contact our team today to learn more about the luxurious homes at The Woolworth Tower Residences and the talented women behind the project.