1401 Elm - The National

The redevelopment of 1401 Elm, now known as The National, stands as one of the most significant historic renovations and adaptive reuse projects in the region. This 52-story, 1.3-million-square-foot tower has been transformed into a premier mixed-use development featuring luxury residences, a high-end hotel, office spaces, retail shops, and fine dining establishments.

Scope of Work

The project features a stunning 52-story high-rise with 1.3 million square feet, including 326 luxury residential units and 218 exclusive hotel suites, along with vibrant commercial spaces such as premium offices, stylish storefronts, and gourmet dining. Cummings Electrical has played a vital role in transforming the building's electrical infrastructure, blending modern systems with its historic charm. Our key contributions included a complete electrical overhaul to support mixed-use functionality, energy-efficient lighting, and power distribution for mechanical, elevator, and security systems. We also integrated advanced electrical and data infrastructure to enhance luxury amenities and business operations while respecting historic preservation guidelines to maintain the building’s original character.

Challenges & Solutions

The National skillfully combines historic preservation with modernization, balancing the need for advanced electrical systems while keeping the building's architectural integrity intact. Our team designed custom electrical pathways that protect its historical charm. Addressing the varied power demands of this mixed-use development—encompassing residences, hotel operations, and commercial spaces—required a sophisticated electrical distribution approach. We implemented advanced load management strategies for optimal efficiency and reliability. Retrofitting a 52-story tower involved careful logistical coordination, as our team executed a systematic floor-by-floor upgrade to the electrical infrastructure, meeting all project timelines.

Results