Flagship W Hotels property reopens following $100m refurbishment

W New York – Union Square has reopened following a $100 million refurbishment.

 

W Hotels’ flagship 256-key property – housed in the Beaux-Arts-style former Guardian Life Building – has undergone a full renovation of its rooms and communal spaces.

 

Seahorse is the hotel’s new seafood brasserie, featuring raw bar cuisine and bespoke cocktails from chef John Villa and restauranteur John McDonald.

 

The Living Room is a new café concept for W Hotels housed in the former ballroom, providing coffee by day and cocktails in the evening. The space is set to be used weekly for events including live music, DJ sets, art displays and talks.

 

A rooftop bar has also opened on the 17th floor, serving cocktails in an “intimate indoor/outdoor space”.

 

The property’s underground bar has been converted into gym and wellness space Fit, featuring the brand’s first five-bike Peloton studio and a recovery zone with hydro-massage chairs.

 

The new room designs feature nods to New York including lights resembling subway lamps,  botanical carpets and a “nature-inspired palette of greens, oranges and greys”.

 

The Penthouse Suite includes separate living and bedroom areas, a private bar, seating area and curved wooden bar with city views.

 

The hotel’s general manager Christina Poon said: “This reinvention is about more than design – it’s about breathing new life into a historic landmark, strengthening its connection to the neighbourhood and creating moments that resonate with every guest. 

 

“From the Living Room to Seahorse and Heroes, each detail reflects the building’s history while capturing the energy, creativity and spirit of Union Square. It’s a place where locals and travellers alike can gather, connect and experience the heart of the city in a way only W Hotels can deliver.”

 

Other W Hotels across the US and Canada – W Hollywood, W Austin, W Dallas and W Toronto – are also undergoing renovations.

Upcoming openings for the brand include W Budapest, W Florence, W Naples, W Prague, W Sao Paulo, W Sydney and W Macau – Studio City.