Montroy Andersen DeMarco completes 2,800 s/f U.S. Polo store; Team includes MG Engineerig and Gilsanz Murray

Montroy Andersen DeMarco (MADGI) has completed the first U.S. Polo Assn. store in Brooklyn. Located at 468 Fulton St., in the vicinity of the Barclays Arena and Brooklyn Academy of Music. The Brooklyn project is the third store designed by MADGI for U.S. Polo Assn., in addition to two stores located in Manhattan neighborhoods of SoHo and Harlem. "The store is the latest addition to the slew of major brands opening retail outlets in the Fulton Mall area," said MADGI principal Steven Andersen. "The Fulton Mall, known for many decades as a popular ethnic shopping destination, is undergoing a rapid gentrification due to the popularity of Brooklyn that has resulted in numerous high-rise luxury residential developments in the area," he added. According to MADGI project manager Ajay Waghmare, LEED AP, "The 2,800 s/f store occupies a ground floor street-front and cellar spaces within a late 1800s, five-story, mixed-use residential/commercial property. The facility includes a sales floor that features the brand's signature 'flag wall' feature created out of folded T-shirts; a 12-foot-long cash wrap counter; a jeans island; a T-shirt island, movable merchandise hangers; perimeter shelving; and an employee room, back office, and storage areas in the cellar." The space, which was formerly used by a store, underwent a complete demolition prior to construction of new interiors and building systems. In addition to architectural and design services, MADGI provided construction administration for the challenging project, designed in only four weeks and completed in only six weeks. The renovated space features a new metal and glass storefront; all new interior finishes; new HVAC; mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP); sprinkler; and fire alarm systems. The lighting system includes a large pendant light with the brand's logo pattern and recessed metal halide lighting fixtures. The finishes include natural color hardwood flooring, white gypsum board walls and ceilings, and dark stained millwork wall shelving and cabinetry. The white-painted cash wrap area is constructed of wood and features a red countertop. In addition to MADGI, the project team included structural engineer Gilsanz Murray Steficek and MEP engineer MG Engineering.