New York is unlike any other city in the world. It’s reputation precedes it; and one is likely to feel like they haven’t seen or done everything there is to, within the Big Apple.
Thanks to my excellent planning & networking, I did get to experience the acclaimed Gramercy Park Hotel, a hotel saturated in artistic reverence and divinely rich hospitality.
Enter the building, and one is introduced to the handcrafted furnishings of one Julian Schnabel, as well as rare, imported items almost too unique for the public gaze. Never have I seen such a detailed curation of hotel decor, from the Rose Bar’s saw-tooth chandelier, to the lobby’s hand-tufted, garnet-and-gold Aubusson rug.
One is more likely to find hotels across the world, with one or two pieces by artistic heavyweights, but the rich and bold Gramercy Hotel, is home to an enviable tapestry of vibrant, ever-changing artworks displayed hotel-wide, made by legends like Andy Warhol, Damian Hirst, Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Architectural Style: 5/10
The building seems awfully plain from the outside, having none of the Gothic or Romance-era architecture that seems to manifest itself in every other Manhattan Building. If class did not ooze from its door-step, it would easily be mistaken for a bland apartment block.
The Renaissance-revival flair which drips from the interior, softens the exteriors introduction, with a deft, stylish hand.
Decor & Character: 8/10
You cannot contest that this hotel is one of the finest in the world, when it comes to decor and character: From the 20th-century masters who adorn the hotel’s walls with their oversized, vibrant pop culture art, to the deliberate mix of bold reds, greens and purples found in every thread of this monument of art and opulence.
I am obsessed with each room’s custom-cut crystal glasses and bronze-studded velvet headboards. In the Gramercy’s 190 rooms, you will find a wealth of Renaissance aesthetic and contemporary luxury, in the strong, warm color palette, untreated walnut and Douglas fir wood beams, bronze door handles, Baroque Louis XV chairs, and handcrafted Moroccan tiles.
”Though every room is one of a kind, each shares a common opulent ambience. With hand-stitched, leather-topped desks, 400-thread-count Italian linens, deep red velvet curtains, mahogany English Drinking Cabinets, marble vanities and luxurious beauty products, the Rooms and Suites are a lavish sanctuary for guests.”
Among the art decorating the walls, is a unique (hipster-like) art installation in the Drawing Room, with over 4,400 light bulbs .
”The drama of the Drawing Room’s luminary work of art, conceived by Julian Schnabel, and created by Brooklyn artists Annika Newell and Tom Schultz, is a must-see located on the hotel’s top floor.”
Facilities: 7/10
Known for hosting photoshoots, meetings and celebrations alike, The Gramercy has made a name for itself beyond its coveted hotel status. The Manhattan hotel is home to Italian eatery Maialino’s (a rather archetypal on-site hotel restaurant, good for a quick bite), and The Rose Bar & The Jade Bar – two bars with dining options, which have seen many a visitor, celebrity and professional through fashion weeks, brunches and even happy hour.
Gramercy Hotel also has a terrace to die for, as it has a sweeping view of the Manhattan skyline.
Gramercy Park Hotel, is linked to Gramercy Park – a private enclave exclusive to local residents and Gramercy Park Hotel guests ONLY (making it a place of intrigue or FOMO to all that breeze by).
Food & Drink: 6/10
I sat down at Maialino’s, so just hang in there for the coming review.
Disability Accessibility & Comfort: Yes, 7/10
You’ll have bedroom and bathroom access in nearly any room you’re placed in.
Do make sure to inquire about whether the room you’re being placed in has safety bars, in order to use the facilities.
Family Friendly: Yes, 6/10
I was, at no point, caught between kids running about the property, but I do believe one should be wary of the fact that there are quite a few corners small humans could knock against if they even come to The Gramercy Hotel.
Location: 7/10
”This landmark New York Hotel, located in the heart of the City, has been home to creative minds and distinguished guests for nearly a century. The Hotel is a modern take on a traditional grand New York Hotel, with its custom-designed, handcrafted furnishings and rotating collection of 20th century Artwork…Every room in this New York Hotel features unique Luxury Amenities — imported Italian linens, exquisite Artwork and luxurious beauty products.” – Gramercy Park Hotel
Value for Money: 8/10
You get what you pay for, in: the pristine facilities, gorgeous decor, and discreet, efficient staff.
Gramercy Park Hotel
02 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY, 10010
(212) 920-3300
reservations@gramercyparkhotel.com
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