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Shoe Designer Bathing Ape comes to Manhattan
by Terry Lefton
http://www.globekicks.com
The leasing team of Faith Hope Consolo, vice chairman, and
Joseph A. Aquino, managing director of Garrick-Aug
Worldwide, Ltd., exclusively represented the landlord in
leasing 91 Greene St. to an obscure, yet ultra hip urban
retailer A Bathing Ape. The Soho location will serve as
the U.S. flagship for the street wear retailer, also known
as BAPE (pronounced baypee), and will include a cafe.
The 10-year lease is for 3,036 s/f, including two levels
and mezzanine space. Apparel retailer Tehen previously
occupied the site.
According to Ms. Consolo, "BAPE's retail concept is
perfectly suited for this hyper-trendy Soho neighborhood.
The company, whose name is a clever riff that pokes fun at
complacency among Japanese youths, was launched 11 years
ago by designer, producer, musician and disc jockey Nigo,
a self-professed 'Planet of the Apes' fanatic. His designs
incorporate simian imagery, hip-hop culture and camouflage
motifs and are deliberately sold in limited quantities to
preserve exclusivity. BAPE clothing and accessories have
reached feverish popularity among the young and hip.
Customers in Japan have even been known to wait in line
just to get into the store to shop! This New York flagship
will allow the retailer, which already has stores in
Japan, Hong Kong and London, to expand its brand within
the U.S."
The lifestyle retail boutique, which will feature an array
of apparel and accessories, is slated to open this summer.
"This incredible signature location features a modern, all-
glass facade and nearly 20 feet of street frontage," said
Mr. Aquino.
"However, the area's non-stop pedestrian traffic and
proximity to some of the most well known retailers in the
world are what truly makes 91 Greene St. a standout retail
address."
Situated on the same block as Louis Vuitton, Armani Casa,
Anne Fontaine and La Perla, 91 Greene St. is also located
near other marquis retailers, including Salvatore
Ferragamo, Helmut Lang and Apple Computer.
Christopher Owles, managing director of Sinvin Realty,
represented the tenant in the transaction.
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