Elevating design in New York City

The Empire State Building stands as one of America's most iconic symbols. Its grandeur, from the soaring ceilings to the thoughtful details in every corner, speaks of an era that is a testament to true craftsmanship. When first walking through its lobby, I was struck by the careful consideration of every intricate detail. This experience sparked the initial vision for the OFS and Carolina showroom, to create a space that honors the building's legacy while telling our own story.

The overall design of the showroom aims to reflect the harmony and elegance of the Empire State Building. As you move through the space, you will notice a seamless flow between the different areas. Leslie Tegmeyer, our Interiors Project Manager, perfectly captured the essence of our design approach.

This philosophy guided our team in the design of custom pieces and the layout of the showroom, ensuring that visitors would experience moments of pause and contemplation, much like in the iconic building itself. It’s about creating an environment where every detail, from local artwork to the carefully selected textures and colors throughout, contributes to a cohesive narrative that respects both the building’s legacy and our vision for the space. Each corner invites exploration and reflection, embodying the timeless elegance that defines both the Empire State Building and our OFS and Carolina brands.

The showroom spaces were created to reflect an inviting atmosphere that exudes warmth and hospitality. The open space area was designed to represent the NYC skyline with mostly linear lines complimented by a black and white color palette. Some spaces within the showroom stand out amongst the rest with blue and green tones accompanied by natural accents, similar to a large green park with blue skies we all know in NYC. These spaces offer a casual and relaxed space for visitors to unwind, while still reflecting the overall theme of the showroom.

Art played a significant role in the showroom’s design as well. During my visits to Brooklyn, I met with artists at The Other Art Fair, sourcing unique pieces that added a personal touch to the space. These artworks, along with whimsical finds like Empire State Building salt and pepper shakers discovered in Las Vegas, tie back to the building’s cultural influence and add layers of personality to the showroom.

Several design details in the showroom are directly inspired by the Empire State Building and showcase true craftsmanship. David Lubbehusen, Director of Design Solutions, and our in-house engineering team played an essential role in the creation of our carefully crafted reception area. From the moment you step into the vestibule, you are greeted by wood stripes reminiscent of the building’s skyline outline. The custom reception desk was inspired by the building’s architectural drawings and the bridge floor plan, with stone sourced from a yard in New Jersey to match the materials found in the lobby and hallways. The use of original materials, like the terrazzo flooring with brass lines, preserves the building’s historical character while integrating OFS’s story through modern touches and wood elements. 

Bringing this vision to life was a collaborative effort that spanned months. From product application and space planning by Nan Prouse, our Product Application Specialist, to working with David and his team in engineering, every step was meticulously planned and executed. Our teams were dedicated to respecting and celebrating the iconic Empire State Building which shines through in every detail of the showroom. The new showroom is more than just a space; it’s an experience. It invites visitors to feel the history, craftsmanship, and modern elegance that define both the building and our brands.