A new hotel claiming to be a game-changer in New York has opened its doors.
The Soho-based 11 Howard is billed as an art spectacle and a community hub that supports local non-profits and businesses.
As you’ve probably guessed it is set on Howard Street with mature trees to greet guests and a custom-made steel cylindrical staircase. The lobby, which is lined with bleached oak wood panelling and polished concrete floors has 15 foot high ceilings.
Art is a key part of the 211-room hotel with sculptures, paintings and digital art pieces in every corner.
Rooms all have a lot of natural light and views over Manhatten but the best room in the house – the Terrace suite – has 270 degree views thanks to a landscaped wraparound terrace.
Furniture is by Danish brands Mads Raaschou and Gubi with materials including wood, warm metals, velvet and wool. Bathrooms have porcelain tiles, marble countertops and brass trimmings with organic Grown Alchemist and Glossier products.
The hotel lets guests check in, use the concierge and get room service on their phones and tailor the minibar through in-room tablets.
Partners include social enterprise Thrive that offers health food at low prices and support for low-income families, as well as Global Poverty Profect, Conscious Commerce and Feed.
The food concept has been created by restauranteur Stephen Starr who owns Morimoto, Upland and Buddakan. The restaurant, which will be called Le Coucou when it opens in May, will focus on classic French dishes with a modern twist.
The bar, which turns into a nightclub after midnight, is called The Blond.