HGU New York opens
Alfa Development has opened of its first boutique hotel, the 90-key HGU New York located in Manhattan’s NoMad district.
The Hotel channels the city’s history through the incorporation of original architecture, a curated art programme and multifaceted eclectic design, with the lobby aiming to preserve the aesthetic of the 1905 landmark Beaux-Arts structure designed by architect Frederick C. Browne. To inject a modern New York sensibility into the project, Alfa Development enlisted hospitality designer Peter Guzy of Asfour Guzy Architects as well as DD Allen of Pierce Allen Design.
“We look forward to introducing our motto, history, architecture, and sustainability on a human scale into one of the world’s most robust hotel markets,” comments Michael Namer, CEO of Alfa Development. “While the renovation brings new life to this landmark hotel, we are preserving the historic elements to what we believe the hotel would have offered, providing guests with an experience grounded in a century-long New York point of view.”
Highlighting a residential style of living, the entryways to guestrooms serve as a place to decompress, with soft tones aiming to create a serene atmosphere, while wood cabinets and furniture compliment hand-woven patchwork Turkish rugs and plush velvet headboards. Amenities include 300-thread count Frette bedding, bath and beauty products from C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries, 24-hour room service and complimentary high speed Wi-Fi and in-room iPad minis.
HGU New York’s 1905 lounge features a fireplace from the building’s original structure, and offers a space for live entertainment, recording artist sessions, Q&A series, and private film screenings. HGU New York has also partnered with Gallery 151, a contemporary art gallery based in lower Manhattan, with the hotel’s curated art programme featuring figures such as Fab 5 Freddy and Liz Markus, among others.
