Inside Nordstrom's New 363k SF Flagship Store

Nordstrom unveiled the renderings for its first flagship store in New York City, a 363k SF development that includes four buildings near Columbus Circle.

The project—expected to open in 2019—includes both existing, historic buildings as well as new construction at the base of Central Park Tower, the second-tallest building in the US.

The Central Park Tower, which is being built by Extell Development, will become the centerpiece of Nordstrom's flagship store, with seven levels of retail space—two below street level and five above.

A stunning waveforms glass façade, the brainchild of James Carpenter Design Associates, will fill the space with natural light and make for a unique consumer experience. 

"From within, you can step into the waveforms and experience the dramatic views up and down the street while simultaneously, from outside, your presence humanizes the façades," James Carpenter said. "The design aims to visually invite people to envisage the store as a simultaneously accessible and urbane public space."

In addition, Nordstrom will restore or rebuild the street-level façades of the other buildings—5 Columbus Circle, 1776 Broadway and 3 Columbus Circle—to evoke their original historic design. The interiors of all the buildings will be connected to each other.

"We think the modern exterior glass design combined with the historical renovations honor both the past and future of Manhattan," said Nordstrom co-president Pete Nordstrom.