On, the Swiss-based athletic shoe and performance sportswear company, partnered with Schimenti to build their latest flagship location in the Flatiron District. Situated on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 21st Street, the store blends modern millwork design with classic New York plasterwork and a landmark-protected storefront, creating an iconic new destination for this vibrant area. Formerly a bank, this 10,410-square-foot space, including approximately 4,600 square feet dedicated to retail, has been reimagined as a trendy hotspot, attracting significant public interest shortly after the storefront graphics announcing the future opening were installed.
The project, which spanned 23 weeks, posed unique challenges from the outset. Schimenti Construction accepted the project sight unseen, with no construction walk-through and no shared drawings, leading to unexpected obstacles and scheduling conflicts. The Schimenti project team demonstrated flexibility and problem-solving, working closely with millworkers in the final month to ensure the project could stay on course despite the constraints.
Schimenti managed intricate design elements, including recreating select original plaster ceiling details, large-format tile installations, and custom stucco column finishes, adding a distinctive touch to the location. Although the project faced ongoing delays and design adjustments, Schimenti’s field team played a crucial role in driving progress. Fast-tracked cost approvals and an overtime commitment by Schimenti and trade partners helped mitigate further setbacks, ensuring timely progress even with multiple late-stage changes to the design.
Communication with On was consistent, with the client maintaining an active onsite presence and partnering closely with Schimenti to push the schedule forward. However, the shifting priorities from the client required Schimenti to stay agile, adjusting swiftly to meet evolving demands. Ultimately, Schimenti’s dedication and flexibility brought On’s Flatiron store to life, transforming the space into a unique blend of classic architecture and contemporary retail design.
