Best Guide For
SoHoNYC
“SoHo, short for “South of Houston Street,” is a historic neighborhood in NYC, known for its Eclectic Shopping, Rich Artistic legacy, Cast-Iron Architecture, and Cultural Revolution. ”
The SoHo Chic
FASHION
At the core of SoHoNYC’s allure is its mix of globally recognized brands and independent boutiques
Luxury names like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Dior hold court alongside emerging designers showcasing unique collections in intimate, carefully curated spaces. It’s this juxtaposition of the established and the avant-garde that keeps SoHoNYC’s fashion scene dynamic and ever-evolving.
HISTORY
Originally farmland in the 17th and 18th centuries, the area transformed into a bustling commercial and industrial hub in the 19th century. During this period, many of SoHo's now-iconic cast-iron buildings were constructed, offering fireproof facades and expansive windows ideal for warehouses and factories.
By the mid-20th century, the area had entered a period of decline. Factories closed, and buildings were left vacant. During this time, city planner Robert Moses proposed the Lower Manhattan Expressway (LOMEX), a ten-lane elevated highway that would have cut through SoHo, demolishing much of the neighborhood.
JANE JACOBS
Artists began moving into SoHo’s abandoned lofts, drawn by the large, light-filled spaces. Though not legally zoned for residential use, these lofts became unofficial studios and homes. SoHo quickly evolved into an artistic haven, attracting figures like Donald Judd and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The neighborhood became synonymous with contemporary art and experimental galleries throughout the 1970s.
Jane Jacobs fought to preserve SoHo, enabling its transformation from an industrial zone into an iconic artistic enclave—and, eventually, into the high-end commercial and residential neighborhood that reflects New York City’s layered history.
