The Carlyle reveals three-year transformation
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel has announced the completion of a three-year transformation, which includes everything from new guestrooms and suites to the debut of the property’s signature restaurant, Dowling’s at The Carlyle, as well as the arrival of a new spa by Valmont on the third floor of the 91-year-old landmark.
“We are thrilled to finally debut our completed new guestrooms – which are highlighted by the coveted suites in the tower with sweeping views of Central Park,” says Managing Director Anthony McHale. “Obviously with a beloved property such as The Carlyle, we had to be careful with this restoration and we feel it offers the perfect modern aesthetic to bring the hotel into the future while still respecting the past.”
Designed by New York-based studio tonychi, The Carlyle’s reimagined guestrooms and suites are inspired by the glamour and beauty of Manhattan’s pre-war era, the Upper East Side, and the glamorous guests whose footsteps have graced the hallowed halls of this storied hotel residence for nearly a century. Quintessential apartment living meets modern day, with luxurious fixtures and furnishings, black lacquered panelling and illustrated wallpaper of whimsical vignettes from Central Park – an echo of Ludwig Bemelmans and Marcel Vertès – and a thoughtful curation of artwork, books and collected everyday finds, all of which emanate a smart, residential look. Subtle Art Deco inspirations are also present, paying homage to The Carlyle’s original designer, Dorothy Draper. William Paley, Creative Director of tonychi studio, led the redesign of 155 rooms and suites. The additional 34 remain unique in design, from the Empire Suite by Thierry Despont to new suites by New York-based designer, Dan Fink, as well as the hotel’s newly acquired Presidential Suite.
Encompassing the entire 26th floor of The Carlyle’s tower, the Presidential Suite offers the ultimate Manhattan living experience. Formerly a privately owned apartment for several decades, the suite was recently added to the hotel’s inventory and features 360-degree views of the city, with floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase sweeping vistas of Central Park, Midtown and beyond. The private elevator landing and dramatic entrance marries gold leaf and hand-etched Art Deco inspired murals. This exclusive residential-style suite is adorned with Venetian plaster walls throughout and comprises three bedrooms, four full bathrooms and one-half bath, living room, full kitchen and media area. Additionally, the gallery entrance just off the landing features a piano, making it the ideal spot for entertaining and taking in the striking view.
The newest addition to The Carlyle family, Dowling’s at The Carlyle, is named after former owner and influential urban planner Robert Whittle Dowling, who was known for his passionate efforts to revitalise the city that never sleeps. Dowling acquired the property in 1944 and was instrumental in turning it into the institution it is today, putting it on the map as a fashionable destination attractive to celebrities, politicians, royalty and tastemakers. It is through his whimsical vision that The Carlyle embodies a distinct sense of place, offering an intimate yet eclectic atmosphere for New Yorkers and visitors. Newly appointed Executive Chef Sylvain Delpique – formerly of 21 Club – has created a menu that features his interpretations of timeless Big Apple favourites and throwback dishes from another era. Designed by tonychi, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Its 80-seat dining room exudes the glamour and charm of the 1930’s and 40’s, highlighted by historic artwork and five newly acquired Ludwig Bemelmans paintings that pay tribute to the adjacent bar, which has been a beloved Upper East Side haunt for the past 75 years.
Rounding out the renovation, luxury Swiss skincare line Valmont has debuted its only namesake New York spa and from December its first US flagship, La Maison Valmont boutique at The Carlyle. Located on the 3rd floor, The Valmont Spa offers exclusive treatments that start with a signature “butterfly motion” and integrate products from its range. La Maison Valmont meanwhile is situated on the ground floor, just next to the hotel’s 76th Street main entrance, and will be New York’s newest art and beauty destination. From skincare and fragrance to exclusively curated pieces of art, customers can browse while admiring art throughout the space, which have been hand-picked by owner and Creative Director Didier Guillon.
