37 East 18th Street

Situated at the eastern edge of Manhattan’s Ladies’ Mile Historic District, the transformation of the 19th-century Ely Building at 37 East 18th Street reimagines the property as a boutique commercial office building while honoring the district’s legacy of innovation.

BKSK was engaged to renovate and vertically expand the building, preserving ground-floor retail while introducing full-floor office spaces above. A refreshed entrance distinguishes the office lobby from the retail frontage through a modern entry bay, marquee, lighting, and signage. Inside, an attended lobby offers a warm, elevated arrival experience defined by wood, plaster, and a bold elevator portal.

The interior design draws inspiration from the building’s proximity to three major urban parks, creating a park-like workplace with garden elements integrated throughout. Upper floors are organized as a continuous circulation path around a central open workspace, while custom oak-slat built-ins create flexible, semi-private seating areas. Extending this concept vertically, the rooftop addition includes a shared garden conservatory and tiered landscaped terrace.

The rooftop and ground-floor modifications were approved by the Landmarks Preservation Commission in April 2025.