DISTRICT PROFILE: LUISELLA MELONI

Name: Luisella Meloni

Title: VP, Philanthropy and Cultural Affairs

Organization/Business: Diane von Furstenberg

What do you do, and how did you get here?

I work very closely with Diane von Furstenberg on all her philanthropic efforts. I first started working in the Meatpacking District in 1996 when the landscape was quite different! At that time, I was working for Industria’s fashion line. A few years later I joined DVF and we have been very involved with the neighborhood and its extraordinary evolution since the late 90’s when Diane moved to a charming carriage house on 12th Street.

What do you love about Meatpacking?

I love the heart, the character, the cobblestones, and its history. It feels very “neighborhoody” and special. Both businesses and residents are engaged and committed to maintaining that core spirit, while making sure that it progresses and evolves. Look at The High Line, Pier 55, Whitney Museum, Google weekend and more.

If you had 15 minutes, how will you spend it in the neighborhood?

I love walking on The High Line and looking at the city from a different perspective. The dialogue you have with the city from that elevation is totally different.

If you had a few hours, how would you ideally spend the day?

I would go to The Whitney, have lunch at The Standard, and shop at DVF. One street, three stops.

Where do you go to escape the crowds? People watch?

During the summer, I like taking my lunch to The High Line to the 10th avenue square overlook. This is where The High Line crosses 10th avenue creating an amphitheater like space with views up 10th avenue to the north. I love looking at the cars and the people walking right below me and straying away with my thoughts.

What should we know about you outside of Meatpacking?

I am an immigrant woman, working for an immigrant woman, raising and immigrant woman. #internationalwomensday