After developing its Makers Studio in the nearby Sunset Park neighborhood, West Elm has relocated its headquarters and at the same time opened its 100th retail store within the landmark Empire Stores complex, a new Brooklyn Bridge Park cultural complex along the East River.
As an active partner in the structural renovation of the building, West Elm said it has contributed to the reinvention of a late 19th century coffee roasting facility and warehouse, reestablishing its active role in community life. The LEED Silver Certified building, incorporating architectural elements from the original structure including storied schist walls and arched brick windows, will offer seven floors of private and public spaces, including corporate offices, a rooftop park, restaurants and retail stores.
West Elm opened its new headquarters, in the same DUMBO neighborhood and blocks away from its former headquarters, with a staff that includes more than 300 in-house designers, merchants, planners and creative team members. The 97,650 square foot office will also serve as a showcase for Workspace, West Elm’s contract furniture line.
“At our core, West Elm is a start-up Brooklyn brand,” said Jim Brett, president of West Elm. “So we were happy to support our hometown by making an early commitment to Empire Stores as its anchor tenant. And we were fortunate to connect with the right development partner in Midtown Equities, who shared our vision and willingness to invest in our community. The offices will also showcase our belief in design to impact, featuring handcrafted installations by local and global artisans who we are committed to supporting through our growth.”
