Shown from left are Brad Cook of Sheehan Phinney, Manchester Mayor Jay Ruais, Arthur Sullivan of Brady Sullivan Properties and former Manchester Mayor Sylvio Dupuis during the ribbon cutting and ceremonial grand opening of The Residence at 1000 Elm on Nov. 18. Courtesy photo

MANCHESTER – On Nov. 18, Brady Sullivan Properties celebrated a significant milestone in downtown Manchester: the 50th anniversary of Brady Sullivan Plaza and the grand opening of The Residence at 1000 Elm.

The event, held in the plaza lobby, showcased the newly renovated space, featuring vibrant blue and yellow walls, elegant wallpaper and brand new carpeting.

Arthur Sullivan of Brady Sullivan Properties opened the event by reflecting on how he and Shane Brady acquired Hampshire Plaza and Mall.

“We acquired the property in August 2006, seizing a rare opportunity to own one of New Hampshire’s tallest buildings, located in the heart of the city,” said Sullivan.

Over the years, the building has evolved to meet the community’s needs.

“The property has gone through several iterations under our care, each time responding to the needs of Manchester,” said Sullivan.

The decision to convert part of the building into residential apartments began in 2021, when Brady Sullivan envisioned transforming the once fully commercial space into a mixed-use community.

“We are honored to bring new life to this iconic Manchester building,” said Sullivan. “Blending urban living with modern luxury, we aim to offer our residents a truly unique experience.”

Former Mayor Sylvio Dupuis spoke about Manchester’s growth and praised Brady Sullivan for its contributions.

“It is people like Arthur Sullivan and Shane Brady, local developers, not outsiders, who have made Manchester what it is today,” he said. “My sense of the Brady Sullivan organization is that it goes beyond bricks, mortar and rentals. It’s about being part of the community.”

Current Mayor Jay Ruais, who also attended the Grand Opening of 1230 Elm Street earlier this year, highlighted the critical role these projects play in addressing the city’s housing challenges.

“One of the things we often discuss is the desperate need for housing,” said Ruais. “The fact that Brady Sullivan continues to grow at this pace is incredible for Manchester. With a 0.6 percent vacancy rate, we need more housing and projects like this make a tangible impact on our city’s economy and quality of life.”

Brad Cook of Sheehan Phinney, who was a tenant at the plaza’s original opening on Nov. 20, 1974, shared his perspective on the building’s legacy.

“Tenants have come and gone, and we’ve been through a lot in this building,” said Cook. “What do you call 50 years of a building that has anchored a city like this? And what do you call people who’ve worked here for 50 years? I’ll tell you what you call it, a good start.”

Residents can choose from a variety of thoughtfully designed floor plans, including one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom layouts, each optimized to provide spacious, light-filled living areas. Large windows bring in natural light, while open-concept designs create a seamless flow between living spaces, perfect for entertaining or relaxing at home.

“The apartments at The Residence at 1000 Elm are animal-friendly and non-smoking, offering an elevated standard of living,” said Mikel MacAuley, executive director of Residential Property Management. “These homes are equipped with gleaming quartz countertops in both the kitchen and bathroom, stainless steel appliances, in-unit washers and dryers and designer flooring throughout. Many apartments boast stunning views of the surrounding city.”

The Residence at 1000 Elm offers a unique amenities package that artfully blends modern comfort with historical charm. Beyond breathtaking views of downtown Manchester and the mountains, residents can enjoy spaces that pay homage to the building’s storied past.

Among the standout features is a game room located in the original vault used by Merchants National Bank and Merchants Savings Bank, seamlessly combining nostalgia with entertainment. Other amenities include a putting green, a theatre perfect for movie nights and a six-foot-wide Light Bright in the common area that encourages playful creativity.

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the state-of-the-art fitness center, complete with top-of-the-line, commercial grade equipment. Those seeking a quieter retreat can relax in the WiFi lounge or explore the library, which is filled with hidden treasures, including a Destination Teddy Bear from Delta Airlines and a vintage rotary telephone where residents can leave voice messages.

Every amenity at The Residence at 1000 Elm has been carefully curated to offer both comfort and a connection to the building’s rich history, making it an unparalleled living experience in the heart of downtown Manchester.