The downtown Dallas Neiman Marcus building is moving closer to receiving historic recognition following a vote by the Dallas Landmark Commission on Monday to hold a public hearing on its potential designation. Located at 1618 Main Street, the nine-story structure has served as a prominent fixture in the city’s retail landscape for more than 100 years.

The proposed designation highlights the building’s architectural and cultural importance, with supporters emphasizing its significance not only to Dallas but also to Texas and the broader United States. If officially designated as a historic landmark, the building would become eligible for redevelopment incentives, though the status could also impose restrictions on modifications to its structure.

Jason Harper, a member of the Landmark Commission, underscored the building’s importance in a letter included in the meeting agenda, describing it as “iconic” and worthy of protection through local, state, and national preservation programs.

The announcement comes as the Neiman Marcus store prepares to close at the end of September. Local preservation efforts to keep the flagship location operational were unsuccessful. In June, Exemplar Luxury Group—the parent company of Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue—completed a restructuring process and emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy under new ownership.

Andrew Woodworth, chief legal officer for Exemplar Luxury Group, addressed the commission during Monday’s meeting. He acknowledged the building’s historic character and expressed the company’s experience managing similar properties. “We have a great deal of experience with historic buildings,” Woodworth said. He also noted the city’s interest in the property and affirmed the company’s intention to engage respectfully in the designation process.

At this stage, Exemplar Luxury Group has not disclosed specific plans for the future use or redevelopment of the downtown Neiman Marcus site. The public hearing approved by the Landmark Commission marks an important step in determining the building’s status and potential preservation measures in the years ahead.