This legendary hotel has been part of the New York scene since the 1920s and is still a favorite haunt of the rich and famous to this day. Baroque Travel finds out all about The Gramercy Park Hotel
Since its revamp by iconic artist and filmmaker Julian Schnabel in 2006 and subsequent redesigns, The Gramercy Park Hotel was given a new lease on life. A New York institution and very much part of the Bohemian scene in its heyday, this iconic hotel is now filled with a rotating collection of exquisite contemporary artworks by 20th Century artists such as Basquiat, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and Twombly. Those who flock here to enjoy its delights include New York’s contemporary high rollers, fashion designers, intellectuals, artists and literati – you’ll find them in the Italian-inspired Maialino restaurant and the hotel’s two extremely sought-after bars, the Rose and Jade Bars.
New York local Julian Schnabel rose to fame in the 1970s for his unusual ‘Plate Paintings’. He then moved into film-making, notable for the biopic in 1996 called Basquiat, followed by the equally jaw-dropping The Diving Bell and the Butterfly. Both brought him international acclaim and numerous awards. He transformed the hotel in 2006 along with real estate mogul Aby Rosen and the co-founder of Studio 54, Ian Schrager. And the rest, as they say, is history.
From the moment one enters this contemporary establishment, with its jewel tones and masterpieces, you feel as if you have entered another world, and another time. The hotel is literally a work of art in its own right. Modern additions include the exquisitely landscaped roof garden offering exquisite views of the New York skyline where one can dine al fresco as well as magnificent interiors where guests dine or savor a drink or two.
A bonus of staying in this iconic hotel is that guests enjoy exclusive access to leafy Gramercy Park, the only private park in the city. But the 190 guest rooms and suites are just as much a good reason to stay here… Beautifully furnished with a combo of bespoke furniture and flea market finds, the spacious accommodation features rich velvet curtains, leather wing chairs, carved stone mantelpieces and, of course, original works of art. The color choices are Renaissance-inspired, giving the feeling of living in a Renaissance painting. There are seven specialty suites, each with a living room and bathroom with sculpted bathtubs. Some also offer dining rooms for those who wish to entertain in private.