Chapter 2
FASHION
The Celanese House
Did you know that the original builder for 122 East 38th Street was William R.H. Martin, one of the largest holders of real estate in Manhattan? In 1877, he took over as head of Rogers Peet, which changed the world of fashion with four innovations: they created the first tags detailing fabric composition, price tags, money-back guarantees, and used illustrations of specific merchandise in their advertising.
In 1968, the home was converted into a showroom for the synthetic fiber company Celanese Corporation. This transformation gave the building a commercial role, showcasing innovative fabrics and floor coverings. Fashion is not just about aesthetics; it’s about the materials that bring designs to life. From natural fibers to cuttingedge synthetics, the world of fashion and fiber is a tapestry of innovation and tradition, perfectly exemplified by the Celanese House’s commitment to showcasing the best in textile innovation.
Throughout the house, carefully curated spaces foster productivity and creativity, off ering quiet corners for deep focus as well as open areas that encourage impromptu collaboration and the sharing of ideas.
