Ellen Tracy's decision to move its headquarters and showrooms to 1400 Broadway confirms that the fashion industry is recognizing the transformation of 1400 into the "Complete Fashion Environment" for tenants and their buyers. Ellen Tracy is just a notable example of the flurry of leasing activity in reaction to W&H's execution of its 81-million- dollar upgrade program at the property.

"It's a clear signal that we're meeting the objective of our repositioning program - to make 1400 Broadway the premier working environment for the modern fashion and apparel tenant," says Fred C. Posniak of W&H.

Ever since the property joined the Pre-War Trophy W&H Portfolio in 2007 and the comprehensive upgrade program was launched, the tenant roster has grown to include some of the fashion industry's leading companies. Other notable additions to the tenant roster include IFG (Innovative Fashion Group) and Excelled Sheepskin & Leather Coat Corporation. Furthermore, several prominent firms have expanded their space in the building, including Federal Knitwork and Jump Apparel, which tripled and doubled the sizes of their spaces, respectively. Of course, 1400 remains the home of industry leaders like Jordache, Castle Hill Apparel, Squeeze, ES Sutton and Betsy & Adam.

A major milestone in the capital improvements program is the new lobby and entrance. They were originally designed by Ely Jacques Kahn in 1931, and were recently redesigned by Fifield Piaker Elman Architects, who incorporated many of the existing Art Deco architectural elements.The renovation features walls clad in book matched Italian marble panels, a new decorative ceiling and moldings, two new concierge desks with 24/7 security and new high-efficiency lighting.

At the lobby entrance, a new bronze and nickel-clad storefront and canopy has been installed, framed by new granite pilasters to match the original exterior stone.

According to firm principal David Piaker, AIA, the completed design "restores the lobby and entrance to its former splendor while incorporating state-of-the art technology."

"An attractive, well-designed lobby is a critical element in projecting Class-A status for firms whose clients will be coming from around the world to see fashion collections," Mr. Posniak observes. "We've created just the right entrance environment for the world-class fashion center this building has become."

The next phases of the upgrade program include renovations of restrooms and air-conditioned public corridors, installation of new windows and HVAC systems, and upgrades to all building systems.

Mr. Posniak expects that the high level of interest in the property will continue among the major players in the fashion industry. As he explains, "The presence of fashion industry leaders attracts other prominent fashion tenants; successful firms always want to be located with other successful firms."For more information about leasing opportunities at 1400 Broadway, please contact Michael Frantz at 212-372-2203 or mfrantz@newmarkkf.com.