New York Hautels

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.

[highlight_text] 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. [/highlight_text]

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

Soho Grand

Adding space to any building in New York City is no easy feat—but the Soho Grand Hotel has recently managed to add 10 additional luxury suites to their already extravagant room repertoire. These new suites are located on the private 16th story of the hotel, accessible only via the exclusive Soho Grand key card.

Each spacious suite includes separate living areas and bedrooms with custom furnishings and state-of-the-art technology (flat screen TVs, 27-inch iMacs, and iPads). They comfortably fit four guests, but you can choose to add an additional bedroom to the suite to accommodate up to six people.

The luscious décor of each suite combines vintage with modern pieces and features various textures and colors. The warm tones like chocolate brown and champagne provide the rooms a soothing and elegant vibe. Soho Grand’s interior designer Bill Sofield explains, “We took advantage of the incredibly expansive views, bringing the relationship of the city right into the rooms… The final result is a place guests should feel right at home, albeit with all the amenities of a five-star hotel.” Right at home, indeed. With a suite as homey as this, you may never want to leave!

310 West Broadway
800.965.3000
www.sohogrand.com

Hotel Plaza Athenee

The Hotel Plaza Athenee combines European grandeur with the intimacy and charm of a luxury boutique hotel, creating a home for sophisticated travelers from around the world for more than two decades. Located on Manhattan’s fashionable Upper East Side, one block from Central Park and close to Midtown, the hotel sits in the quiet elegance of this exclusive residential neighborhood and shopping district.

In 2010, the hotel completed a multi-million dollar renovation which included a selection of new guestrooms and suites, the addition of four premier luxury suites, a spacious fitness center, and the addition of a new spa. The hotel’s 142 guestrooms and suites have been individually designed to reflect a sumptuous, European townhouse décor. Many suites feature glass-enclosed atriums and outdoor balconies with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Opened in May 2010, The Plaza Athenee Spa features four Asian-themed private treatment suites offering hotel guests the latest in wellness therapies by Valmont and Babor. Arabelle Restaurant and sultry Bar Seine are popular spots for hotel guests as well as the discerning Manhattanite. Known for its personalized and attentive service in a luxurious, relaxed setting, the hotel continuously anticipates and exceeds the high expectations of its guests.

37 East 64th St.
212.734.9100
www.plaza-athenee.com

Trump International Hotel & Tower New York

With its unmatched views of Manhattan and dedication to luxury, the Trump International Hotel & Tower® is the only New York accommodation with a five-star rating for both its hotel and restaurant. The iconic 52-story glass hotel recently underwent a $30 million renovation to continue to provide you and your family with a delightful home-away-from home experience. Sub-Zero appliances, European-style kitchens, and Schonbek crystal chandeliers are just some of the features that ensure that every stay will be a pleasant one.

Visiting New York for the holiday season? The two-bedroom park view suite is an exceptional choice for families and comes complete with a master bedroom, guest room, living room, and en-suite master bath. Comprising 1,350 square feet, you are sure to feel comfortable in this haven of bliss.

Even your little ones will enjoy their stay with the Trump® Kids program that includes special services like complimentary use of the swimming pool and a kiddie cocktail menu. Located directly across from Central Park, Trump International Hotel & Tower New York is the perfect location for a family-filled vacation.  And along with the amenities, each suite comes equipped with 10-foot. floor-to-ceiling windows, providing breathtaking views of New York staples such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. You will receive panoramic views of the world-famous floats as they soar at eye level in front of the hotel.

The Trump International Hotel & Tower is one of the most impressive properties in New York City, so book your trip today for an unforgettable stay. — Elena Chiriboga

1 Central Park West
212.299.1000
www.trumpintl.com