Starrett-Lehigh Building Transformed into Epicenter of New York Fashion Week

Starrett-Lehigh Building Transformed into Epicenter of New York Fashion Week

Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a stunning metamorphosis, the iconic Starrett-Lehigh Building, once a symbol of New York City’s industrial prowess, is poised to become the epicenter of fashion as it plays host to New York Fashion Week (NYFW) starting this Friday, as was reported on Wednesday in the New York Post. Nestled on the far West Side at Eleventh Avenue and West 26th Street, this architectural marvel, dating back to 1931, will witness a convergence of creativity and style as it welcomes 70 designers for a week of runway shows and events.

The decision to consolidate NYFW under one roof reflects a strategic move by event sponsor IMG to streamline operations and create a cohesive experience for attendees. According to the information provided in the Post report, RXR, the building’s managing director, highlighted the significance of this transformation, emphasizing IMG’s vision to centralize Fashion Week activities within the grandeur of the Starrett-Lehigh Building.

“IMG wanted to put all of Fashion Week under one roof,” remarked Bill Elder of RXR, whose company acquired the building for $920 million in 2011, the Post report said. Over the years, RXR has spearheaded extensive renovations and infrastructure upgrades, elevating the building’s appeal and attracting a diverse range of tenants, including renowned fashion brands and culinary establishments.

Among the notable features of the revitalized Starrett-Lehigh Building are Ralph Lauren’s expansive showroom, Marcus Samuelsson’s Hav + Mar restaurant, and the Olly Olly gourmet food hall and market, as was indicated in the Post report. The addition of these amenities has imbued the building with a newfound vibrancy, setting the stage for NYFW’s grand debut within its hallowed halls.

For emerging designers like Bach Mai, the opportunity to showcase their creations in such an iconic venue is nothing short of a dream come true. The Post reported that Mai, a two-time nominee for a CFDE Emerging Designer Award, reflected on his journey to the Starrett-Lehigh Building, recalling a poignant moment from years past. “It’s such a full-circle moment to have my first showing with IMG in this iconic building,” Mai remarked, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

As preparations for NYFW reach a crescendo, IMG has secured prime real estate within the Starrett-Lehigh Building, leasing 68,000 square feet on the 18th floor for the main venue and an additional 17,000 square feet on the 17th floor for support space, as per the report in the Post. While specific financial details remain undisclosed, the move represents a significant investment in creating a dynamic and immersive fashion experience for attendees.

With NYFW poised to make its mark at the Starrett-Lehigh Building, anticipation is running high among designers, industry insiders, and fashion enthusiasts alike, the report in the Post said. As the curtains rise on this historic event, all eyes will be on the iconic structure that has been transformed into the beating heart of New York’s fashion scene, ushering in a new era of style, innovation, and creativity.