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Geberit In-Wall Systems Elevate Luxury Bathroom Design in NYC’s Historic Woolworth Building Woolworth Building, Manhattan, New York City
Project Background & Goal
The Woolworth Building, a neo-Gothic masterpiece and former world’s tallest skyscraper, has been an icon of the New York City skyline since 1913. Designed by Cass Gilbert for retail pioneer F.W. Woolworth, the tower’s top 30 stories have recently been transformed into The Woolworth Tower Residences—33 ultra-luxury condominiums. The renovation goal: deliver world-class interiors and best-in-class performance systems that matched the prestige of the building, all while honoring its landmark status.
Challenges
Transforming a National Historic Landmark posed major structural and regulatory challenges. The design team had to completely overhaul mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, reinforce aging infrastructure, and do so without disrupting lower-floor tenants or compromising the building’s historic designation. Every detail, from the custom Italian millwork and marble walls to the bathroom fixtures, needed to reflect luxury—without sacrificing efficiency or functionality.
Key Solution
CNY Group, led by Project Manager Joanna Stephens, selected Geberit in-wall carrier systems for all 100 bathrooms throughout the building. The space-saving design concealed the tank behind the wall, reclaiming an average of nine inches per bathroom—critical real estate in a building where space can cost more than $3,300 per square foot. “The Geberit system combines the luxury the owners wanted with the practicality that renovators, maintenance professionals, and homeowners demand,” said Stephens.
The Geberit DuoFix Carrier allowed designers to maintain clean lines and full-height vertical marble panels, while the sound-insulated tank reduced flush noise—a premium touch for high-end residences. Sigma20 dual-flush plates added an elegant finishing detail while helping conserve thousands of gallons of water each year. A full-scale mockup confirmed the system’s strength, with the carrier surpassing ASME load standards, supporting up to 880 lbs, and allowing for easy, tool-free access to internal components.
Results & Impact
Geberit helped deliver a seamless balance of preservation and innovation. The in-wall systems elevated the luxury aesthetic, maximized valuable floor space, and provided long-term reliability—all without disrupting the building’s historic architecture or requiring visible mechanical infrastructure. The result is a new chapter for one of New York’s most iconic buildings: timeless elegance, engineered for modern living.
Project Contractor: CNY Group
Bathroom Photo: Travis Mark