The expanded space gave the shop a seven-window storefront where inviting seasonal vignettes are set up to entice passerbys strolling the downtown area inside. “It’s important to keep the windows immaculate,” says Gary Kolesaire. “They give people the first impression of the store.”
Originally built in 1931, the mezzanine was brought up to current codes during construction. It is outfitted with comfortable leather wing chairs where customers can gather to enjoy a great smoke. It also displays more than 500 pipes. Bookshelves were added to give it an English library feel. “We wanted our clientele to feel like they should put on slippers when they come in to enjoy the camaraderie,” says Kolesaire.
Moving on Up
Constant evolution is clearly a fundamental part of the Kolesaires’ strategy for success. In 2012, the concept of a Davidoff Lounge became a reality. Being of a global concept, each lounge has certain Davidoff markings. “The design team then took the location, the building and global concepts and incorporated them all into a beautiful, functional space,” says Gary Kolesaire.
The third floor of the building was gutted, with the removal of 200,000 pounds of construction debris. The only remaining properties were the two 1931 skylights and the original brick walls, which helped retain the industrial look of the property. Artwork incorporating images depicting cigar smoking, New York and local history was created by UR New York. Bringing the vision to life demanded some doing, notes Gary Kolesaire. “They had to clear out the space by bringing all the ripped-out remains of those tiny offices down those flights of stairs. The fireplace had to be brought in through the window, and they had to blast that exposed brick wall with dry ice to clean it off.” The result is a gorgeous, welcoming space featuring a mix of natural and accent track lighting.
Today and Tomorrow
Having survived this long, Gary Kolesaire could be forgiven for resting on his laurels, but that’s not in his character. He continually searches out new products and ways to improve his store and the expert service he and Barbara offer to their loyal customers.
Kolesaire takes pride in his management of inventory, a skill he learned in his previous career and honed as a cigar shop owner.
As a member of the Tobacconists’ Association of America and the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association (IPCPR), Gary Kolesaire also actively advocates for the industry, which he says is an unfortunate necessity in cigar retail. “To me, the biggest challenge facing us hasn’t changed—it’s still the taxes and regulations we face,” he says, noting that he’s teamed up with other retailers to fight legislative proposals that threaten their livelihoods. “We all have to work together to fight for the industry we love.”
This story first appeared in the May/June 2018 issue of Tobacco Business magazine. Members of the tobacco industry are eligible for a complimentary subscription to our magazine. Click here for details.
– Story by Jennifer Gelfand, editor in chief of Tobacco Business Magazine
