Pleasures abound for those fortunate enough to take full advantage of all that the luxury lifestyle has to offer. Whether it be fueling up the private jet for a jaunt over to Vegas, taking time off to take in the pleasures afforded on a plush megayacht, delighting in the delectable treats offered at one of the city’s many top-rated restaurants, or relishing in some retail therapy at some of our favorite shopping venues, the benefits of affluence cannot be denied. With this in mind, we present our “Hautels” section of Haute Living, showcasing some of New York’s most opulent hotels and resorts. With amenities for both jetsetters and local residents, these four hospitality centers are ready to tend to your every whim. From a stay at the only Forbes five-star hotel in NYC to an afternoon in the sun in the middle of the bustling city, there is no limit to the flights of fancy that await when visiting one of these luxury hotels in the Big Apple.
Whether you’re an art aficionado, or can’t tell the difference between a Monet and a Manet, you will certainly be amazed by the abundance of artwork that glimmers throughout The Surrey.
The Surrey
Only a few blocks from the Metropolitan Museum of Art stands the quaint, yet luxurious Surrey hotel. And though it’s mere minutes from one of the largest and most famous art institutions in the world, The Surrey boasts a unique art collection of its own —an eclectic display of paintings, photographs, textiles, and even video installations by both acclaimed and lesser-known artists. Interior designer and architect Lauren Rottet carefully selected each piece of artwork and furniture, creating a diverse compilation that complements the limestone walls and marble archways of this New York City gem.
Displayed in the lobby are Jenny Holzer prints of Xenon projections (those that stem from bright light projectors) that feature obscure, thought-provoking phrases such as, “You are my own.” There are also several pieces of furniture with words and sayings beautifully hand-painted in a graffiti-like manner by UK-based design duo Jimmie Martin. Yet surprisingly, the focal point of the lobby is a perplexing portrait of Kate Moss, created by famed celebrity artist Chuck Close. It’s a tapestry that’s “almost drawing guests down the hall,” says Rottet. Likewise in the bar you’ll find hand-painted wallpaper by de Gournay and prints by Donald Sultan that feature black and white smoke rings, which according to Rottet, “play on the 1920s bar scene… people sitting in the bar, smoking long cigarettes, and sipping cocktails.” These items are just a sampling of the modern art pieces found throughout the hotel as part of The Surrey’s extensive collection.
Rottet says her use of prints, portraits, and antique furniture with a modern twist all contribute to a “blending of old world and contemporary touches.” And whether you’re an art aficionado, or can’t tell the difference between a Monet and a Manet, you will certainly be amazed by the abundance of artwork that glimmers throughout The Surrey.
20 East 76th St.
212.288.3700
www.thesurrey.com
Haute Design
October 29, 2010Haute Time: Time is of the Essence
