Harman opens stunning NYC flagship

NEW YORK, NY–The line between retail store and performance space just got a bit blurrier (and a whole lot funkier) with the opening of the Shawmut-built 8,500 SF Harman International flagship on Madison Avenue.

Working with an aggressive 10-week schedule, Project Executive Kevin Piraino, Project Manager Nick Meyer, Superintendent Jeff Borst, Construction Manager Bob Goemaat, Assistant Project Manager Sophie Wilkinson, and the entire team first completed demo of the space and then performed a design/build renovation in partnership with Gensler. The transformation included an interactive DJ console, a first-floor stage where Harman can host recording artists, an interactive home theater and speaker line, and the Sound Spider—an interactive table display and headphone rack where shoppers will be able to test a full range of Harman headphones hanging from the ceilings.

To conceal the extensive wiring needed throughout the store, our team used a false floor on the first level. Hanging clouds (procured from Germany) were also installed to enhance acoustics while soundproof doors were set-up in the basement’s JBL Synthesis Home Theater Room.

Despite the huge undertaking, the team managed to produce both a high-end showroom and an interactive experience center for customers that blended together in perfect harmony— even though no one on our crew can hold a tune!

"The quality and workmanlike atmosphere throughout the Harman project was amazing. I would not hesitate to engage Shawmut again when the opportunity arises."
—Thomas C. Carr, Sr. Manager, Harman