A New Marketplace in the Old Limelight

New York’s Church of the Holy Communion has had many names since it was opened in the mid-1800s. Originally built as an Episcopal religious space, the Gothic revival-style building was later acquired by Miami club owner Peter Gatien, who converted it into the notorious party venue Limelight in 1983. After years as a popular destination for celebrities, young urban tastemakers, and eager club kids—during which time it was repeatedly shut down by the police and later renamed—the Limelight eventually closed its doors for good in 2007. New York scensters and fashionistas needn’t bemoan the passing of the iconic party space any longer, however, as it will soon be reopened as Limelight Marketplace, a boutique, three-story retail mecca.

Photo by Katie Sokoler/Gothamist

Jack Menashe, who formerly owned Soho nightclub Lounge, is the man behind this ambitious facelift. Aided by designers James Mansour and Melisca Klisanin, the $10 million renovation has steadily transformed the 25,000-square-foot space from a bustling nightclub into a daytime shopping haven. Located in the perennially hip Flatiron district, the venue is now set up to house 70 small vendor stalls, several quaint eateries, and two full-scale restaurants, all of which will create a beehive of activity within the hallowed, historical building.

Photo by Katie Sokoler/Gothamist

Visitors will be treated to retail options like jewelry, clothing, organic goods, and artisanal treats in an atmosphere that Menashe envisions as a place where families can come and browse all day. Targeted at savvy shoppers, the businesses include everything from a sneaker gallery with unique, sought-after kicks to an apothecary that sells cult brands. When asked by WWD about the inspiration behind the project, Menashe replied: “Retail became very boring. We’re trying to make this fun.”

It remains to be seen how this new incarnation of the building will turn out, but with all the cards stacked in a promising direction it looks like Limelight Marketplace might be just the right fit.