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The grand central staircase at West Elm's Headquarters in DUMBO Brooklyn.
Dumbo, Brooklyn

West Elm Global HQ

Commercial

Originally constructed in 1879 as a Civil War – era coffee warehouse, the Empire Stores building sat vacant and deteriorating for more than six decades before its redevelopment in 2013 as a mixed-use destination in Brooklyn’s DUMBO neighborhood.

VMAD was commissioned to design 97,650 square feet within the restored structure as the global headquarters for West Elm. The project integrates contemporary workplace design within the building’s historic industrial shell, preserving the character of the original masonry structure while introducing a flexible, brand-driven environment for the company’s growing creative and operational teams.

By weaving modern workspaces into the rhythm of the historic architecture, the design bridges three centuries of craft and commerce, transforming a former warehouse into a dynamic headquarters that reflects West Elm’s modern design ethos.

A long corridor with arched windows facing the Manhattan Bridge is used for multiple seating areas perfect for casual meetings at West Elm Headquarters.
A long corridor with arched windows facing the Manhattan Bridge is used for multiple seating areas perfect for casual meetings at West Elm Headquarters.
The grand central staircase at West Elm's Headquarters in DUMBO Brooklyn.
Polished concrete counters and copper-faced cabinets create a casual dining area at West Elm Headquarters.
The grand central staircase at West Elm's Headquarters in DUMBO Brooklyn.
A sculptural spiral staircase features prominently in the store vignette area of West Elm Headquarters.
An original stone wall rises through the center of furniture vignettes in West Elm Headquarters. The original wood beams are featured on the ceiling.
A live-edge wooden table runs through the center of the conference room at West Elm Headquarters. The ceiling light fixtures create a grid pattern.
A long hallway combines workspace and storage at West Elm Headquarters. Fieldstone walls are lit to enhance the natural elements
Original 19th century wood columns and ceiling beams contrast with light office furniture in the offices at West Elm Headquarters. An arched window is at the back of the space.
The grand central staircase at West Elm's Headquarters in DUMBO Brooklyn.
Polished concrete counters and copper-faced cabinets create a casual dining area at West Elm Headquarters.
A wall sculpture of cascading pyramids welcomes visitors in an area designed for casual meeting at West Elm Headquarters. Low leather club chairs and wood tables populate the area.