Schimenti is proud to announce that Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) has been named Retail Renovation of the Year by VMSD. This recognition highlights the successful transformation of a building in New York’s SoHo-Cast Iron Historic District into APL’s second retail location. This design-forward shoe boutique balances modern luxury with architectural heritage.
Our team worked alongside the architectural firm Al-Jawad Pike to bring the 3,800-square-foot vision to life, overcoming unique challenges presented by the site’s historical preservation requirements. The exterior, preserved due to local regulations, reflects the storied character of the building, while inside, a minimalist yet dramatic space was crafted to echo sacred architectural elements, such as amphitheater-like curves and cathedral-inspired arches.
Working within the existing structural constraints, Schimenti contributed innovative solutions to address misaligned columns and other structural complexities. Our team collaborated to introduce teardrop-shaped curved columns that gracefully integrate into the store’s aesthetic while supporting the integrity of the space. Clay-molded boulders and materials like gold, anodized aluminum, and travertine further enhanced the store’s design, adding texture and depth to every detail.
The result is a visually captivating boutique that blends modern retail with a sense of reverence, offering an exceptional shopping experience. Schimenti is honored to have played a key role in bringing this award-winning project to fruition, and we look forward to continued partnerships that push the boundaries of design and construction excellence.