2023 Women in Construction: Christine Barshak, Finaly General Contracting Corporation

In the past year, what project or accomplishment are you most proud of? The project I am most proud of is an interior build-out we completed at 885 3^rd Ave., also known as the Lipstick Building. Being a women-owned general contracting business and working in this iconic New York building felt very on brand! We renovated the top floor of the elliptical shaped building for an incoming tenant and had the distinct honor of working with the immensely talented Patricia Hoban, project manager at SL Green. We used high-end finishes such as European marble and Philip Jeffries’ specialty wallcovering in the MKDA designed, and Lofreddo-Brooks created buildout. The combination of earthy wood tones, marble and glass gave the space an inherently modern and fresh appeal.

What was a pivotal point in your career? Deciding that Wall Street was not the most conducive environment for the kind of working mother I wanted to be. In construction finance I was able to find the flexibility working mothers so desperately need while still being able to achieve professional growth and success. 

What is your favorite building in New York? The Lipstick Building is a close second to my favorite - Grand Central Station! The main hall stops me in my tracks every time.