After a street sign that reads "Library Way," you go through the bronze doors of what looks like a friend Midtown urban loft. No traditional receptionist awaits you in the lobby, but a bit "host", you sit down to enjoy a glass of wine and registration via iPad at a counter that looks like a kitchen island. Later you can relax in a room with a view of the library. The next morning, take an espresso on the way (it's free) from the lobby, and start to Times Square or the Empire State Building, just a few minutes.

DESIGN

Tony Chi and Associates of tonychi took structural renovations and interior of what was originally a department store. Chi, Taiwan-born New Yorker who designed InterContinental hotels Mandarin Oriental and abroad, large bones of the building restored in 1916. Coatings on the windows from floor to ceiling and walls from 12 to 14 feet high, are panels of black poplar washed remind Japanese shoji doors, cohesion and create even amplify the feeling of space.And there are surprises throughout, like a wall of bricks recovered from a farm in Connecticut in 1790 which is now used in the bar at the bottom.

I had not made an ATC in the years and the girls had a challenge CECC @ ATC, the best part they have transformed into a SWAP, another thing I have not done for some time. Soooo I have inspired and made this for my special friend new, a little something from the heart with some vintage trim and some binding fashion, must all do with a lot of heart!

By Pam Kumpe -

Manuela sat across the lobby from me at work. She was a temperamental argumentative type of person (not with me) so many folks didn’t even try to get to know her. Most just stayed out of her way.

Our friendship took place in California (when I was in my 20s) at a fast-paced bank near the airport, close to the beach. With all the people and traffic it was easy to get lost in a crowd, but for whatever reason I liked Manuela.

I was drawn to her, and yes, she was quirky and different—didn’t fit the mold, kind of like me. We took our 15-minute breaks and lunches on a set schedule, and with short spurts together for snacks and meals, she and I became friends during our time in the kitchen.

Eventually, we started to eat lunch outside the office, strolling through beach city boutiques followed by our grabbing sandwiches. We laughed, talked and bonded, becoming closer each day.

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