Friday, September 20, 2024 The St. Regis New York marks its 120th anniversary with a stunning transformation, unveiling a refreshed lobby and dining venues, ushering in a new era of luxury and elegance. The St.
Regis New York is marking its 120th anniversary this fall with a grand transformation, unveiling an impressive redesign and renovation that signals a new era of elegance. The extensive updates include refreshed public areas like the lobby, the King Cole Bar, and the addition of two new dining spaces, ushering in a fresh chapter for the hotel, renowned as Manhattan’s premier address. The renovation blends its storied legacy with modern aesthetics, expertly crafted by the renowned Champalimaud Design firm to cater to today’s discerning global travelers.
John Jacob Astor IV originally envisioned The St. Regis New York as a hotel that would rival Europe’s finest, providing his family and friends with the comfort of a private home. Over time, the hotel became the epicenter of Manhattan’s social scene and the base of “Caroline’s 400,” a prestigious group formed by Astor’s mother, Caroline Astor.
Throughout its illustrious history, the hotel has welcomed some of the most fascinating figures of each era, from Salvador Dali to Marilyn Monroe, and has been the birthplace of iconic cultural moments such as the creation of the Bloody Mary cocktail and legendary jazz performances on the rooftop, all while appearing in famous film and television scenes. Champalimaud Design’s masterful renovation harmonizes with the hotel’s original Beaux-Arts architecture, preserving its heritage while transforming it into a luxurious urban retreat, fit for the Astor family in the modern age. The refreshed public spaces feature elements like Waterford crystal chandeliers and original crown moldings, now enhanced with contemporary furnishings, rich textures, and a vibrant color palette.
Guests arriving via Fifth Avenue are greeted by the original gilded revolving doors and step into the reimagined lobby, which now features restored exterior windows that showcase stained-glass inspired by the hotel’s original 1905 Tiffany window design. The reception area also boasts restored cages that once held the front desk, now beautifully integrated into the walls behind the reception. A cloud-inspired ceiling, lightened floor patterns, and walls adorned with neutral tones and red rugs, a nod to Caroline Astor’s favorite American Beauty Rose, create an inviting ambiance.
The expanded lobby now includes a welcoming area for the concierge team, featuring custom aquamarine walls with hand-painted peacock motifs in homage to a 1920s mural. The original Tiffany & Co. chandelier remains a focal point, offering a stunning contrast between the old and new.
Beyond the lobby, guests are drawn to the newly reimagined restaurant and lounge, The Drawing Room, where a rich palette of pink, rose, turquoise, emerald, and gold reflects the colors of the famous King Cole Bar mural. The space exudes elegance with embroidery and fringe details inspired by Caroline Astor’s luxurious wardrobe, while mirrored walls and plush seating create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Adjacent to the main dining room, an extended lounge offers additional seating, perfect for groups enjoying a more casual dining experience.
Guests can also admire the original Astor Library book collection, now proudly displayed in custom wood bookcases for the first time, evoking its original home on the second floor of the hotel. Adjacent to The Drawing Room, the King Cole Bar remains a quintessential New York landmark. While the iconic Maxfield Parrish mural still dominates the space, the bar itself has been refreshed with dark wood paneling, a rich green ceiling, scalloped banquettes, and lavender chairs, all accented with bronze and onyx finishes, adding a touch of modern elegance.
The renovation also introduces a new dining experience, La Maisonette, serving breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. This bright, airy venue is inspired by the hotel’s original 1910s breakfast room, offering a French-influenced design with creamy white walls, a skylight, and a soft palette of pink, burgundy, emerald, and turquoise. La Maisonette continues the tradition of afternoon tea, a beloved ritual started by Caroline Astor, providing guests with a charming and sophisticated setting to unwind.
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