New York City’s Art Deco institution—the Waldorf Astoria—has closed its doors for a three-year transformation, expected to cost $1 billion.
“The Waldorf Astoria New York is where our brand’s story began. Restoring this hotel to its place as the most luxurious hotel in New York is a key priority for the Waldorf Astoria brand,” says John Vanderslice, global head of the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts.
The 13-story Waldorf Hotel was first opened in 1931 by William Waldorf Astory on the site of his former mansion on 33rd Street and Fifth Avenue. Since then, the Waldorf Astoria has hosted every U.S. president and been home to the rich and famous, from Frank Sinatra to the Duke of Windsor.
Architects at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and Paris–based interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon are working closely with the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission on what is being touted as one of the most intensive landmark preservation efforts in New York City history. The Waldorf’s exterior was landmarked in 1993 and now, in conjunction with the renovation, several interior spaces (including the lobby and the Park Avenue
foyer) have also been designated official city landmarks.
When the Waldorf reopens, three-quarters of its 1,413 rooms will be luxury condominiums, with the remaining 300-500 hotel suites to be operated by Hilton, which has a 100-year management agreement with the iconic property.
