This fall, The St. Regis New York is marking its 120th anniversary with a grand transformation that redefines luxury in the heart of Manhattan. This extensive renovation, meticulously crafted by the renowned Champalimaud Design firm, blends the hotel’s storied legacy with modern aesthetics, creating a luxurious urban retreat fit for today’s discerning global traveler.
The iconic St. Regis, originally envisioned by John Jacob Astor IV as a hotel that rivaled Europe’s finest, has long been Manhattan’s premier address. From its inception, it was a haven for the elite, hosting the “Caroline’s 400,” a prestigious group formed by Astor’s mother, Caroline Astor. Throughout its illustrious history, the hotel has welcomed some of the world’s most fascinating figures, from Salvador Dali to Marilyn Monroe, and witnessed iconic cultural moments like the creation of the Bloody Mary cocktail and legendary jazz performances on the rooftop.
The renovation masterfully harmonizes with the hotel’s original Beaux-Arts architecture, preserving its heritage while ushering in a new era of elegance. 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 boasts restored exterior windows that showcase stained-glass inspired by the hotel’s original 1905 Tiffany window design. The reception area features restored cages, once home to 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 also includes a welcoming area for the concierge team, featuring custom aquamarine walls with hand-painted peacock motifs, a tribute 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. Here, 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.
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.
