St. Regis New York Celebrates 120 Years with Stunning Redesign and Renovation

Friday, September 20, 2024

The St. Regis New York marks its 120th anniversary this fall with the unveiling of an extensive redesign and renovation, introducing a new era of glamour and sophistication. The hotel’s revamped public spaces, including the lobby, King Cole Bar, and two new dining locations, reflect a modern aesthetic crafted by Champalimaud Design, seamlessly blending the legacy of the hotel with a contemporary touch.

“We are thrilled to debut the exquisite renovation of our very first St. Regis hotel and global flagship, The St. Regis New York, while also celebrating the 120th anniversary of St. Regis – a significant milestone for the brand,” said Jenni Benzaquen, Senior Vice President of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts. “This anniversary reflects our enduring legacy of luxury, personalized service, and contemporary elegance that has captivated guests around the world. As we honor our rich heritage, we remain deeply attuned to the desires of both our loyal guests and the next generation of luxury travelers, ensuring that every experience we offer is as extraordinary and bespoke as it is timeless.”

Founded by John Jacob Astor IV, The St. Regis New York was designed to rival Europe’s finest hotels, offering a space that felt like a private home for his friends and family. Over the years, it has been at the heart of Manhattan’s social scene, home to “Caroline’s 400,” and a hub for iconic personalities like Salvador Dali and Marilyn Monroe. The hotel’s rich history is punctuated by cultural milestones, such as the creation of the Bloody Mary cocktail and jazz performances on its rooftop.

“Since 1904, The St. Regis New York has stood as a beacon for generations of global travelers looking to be in the center of Manhattan and surround themselves in the timeless allure which has defined the Fifth Avenue icon from its founding by John Jacob Astor IV,” said General Manager Octavia Marginean- Tahiroglu. “The renovation signals a milestone moment for the cherished New York City icon as we present our masterfully redesigned public spaces this fall – in our 120th anniversary year.”

The redesign, led by Champalimaud Design, honors the hotel’s Beaux-Arts architecture while transforming it into an urban haven fit for the modern Astor family. Heritage details like Waterford crystal chandeliers and original crown moldings are complemented by modern furnishings, layered textures, and a vibrant color palette, creating a luxurious yet comfortable environment.

“We have created spaces with energy and splendor, layering the classic architecture with contemporary elements, reinvigorating the hotel with magic, as the Astors had done when the hotel first opened,” said Alexandra Champalimaud. “The public spaces will have a sense of openness and a palette featuring emerald greens and red rose tones that evoke the grandeur of the Astors’ legacy.”

Stepping off Fifth Avenue, guests are greeted by the iconic gilded doors and a refreshed lobby featuring restored original Tiffany windows, reimagined front desk cages, and a light, cloud-inspired ceiling. The new lobby design flows into an expanded welcome area, with deep aquamarine walls and custom wall coverings featuring peacocks, a nod to the hotel’s historic 1920s murals.

In the fully reimagined Drawing Room, the hotel’s new lobby restaurant and lounge, guests are immersed in a luxurious palette of pinks, turquoise, and gold, with velvet couches and plush armchairs encouraging relaxation. Mirrored walls and intricate detailing evoke the opulence of Caroline Astor’s gowns, while the adjacent lounge offers a more intimate setting. The Astor Library’s private collection, now on display for the first time, adds a literary touch to the space.

At the renowned King Cole Bar, the iconic Maxfield Parish mural continues to captivate, with the bar refreshed by dark wood paneling, a green ceiling, and sophisticated accents of bronze and onyx. The ambiance blends old-world charm with modern elegance, ensuring its place as a quintessential New York institution.

Additionally, La Maisonette, a new dining venue inspired by the hotel’s original breakfast room, debuts with creamy white walls, a recessed skylight, and a soft color palette, offering breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea in a bright, airy space that captures the essence of French design. The afternoon tea ritual, a tradition started by Caroline Astor, continues to be a cherished experience at The St. Regis New York.