Carlton Hotel, Autograph Collection
88 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
Location:
Due to my affinity for historic Marriott hotels, I planned a NYC stay at the beautiful Carlton Hotel from Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Its location in the desirable Flatiron/NoMad district made it convenient to walk almost everywhere in the city or take a short cab ride. Old New York charm coupled with modern amenities gave this property character while providing a comfortable urban oasis from the city. The exterior has a visible mixture of old and new Manhattan architecture as Marriott supports the restoration of these properties while maintaining the historic aspects.
During the early 1900’s, the NoMad district was one of NYC’s most elegant destinations. Designed by Harry Allen Jacobs in the Beaux-Arts style, this historic hotel opened in 1904 as The Hotel Seville. For over one-hundred years, the property remained a luxury hotel. Most recently, designer David Rockwell redesigned and transformed the hotel into an extraordinary space. Rockwell used original interior features and historic details to highlight the historic nature of the hotel. During the restoration, workers found a hidden Tiffany-style glass skylight which is now proudly displayed in the restaurant. The marble floored lobby showcases an eye-catching cascading two-story contemporary waterfall that reveals an oversized vintage black and white photograph of the hotel taken in 1924 as The Seville Hotel.
Rooms:
Twelve floors total, there are small elevators with an antique-feel.The hallways are narrow and one can tell it is an old building. However, once inside the guest rooms, it is a modern, spacious, and comfortable space.
Keeping up with the old New York charm and boutique style theme, Rockwell created historic themed suites called concept rooms. I was upgraded to the Diva Suite. My eyes lit up with excitement as I discovered the magnificent golden door, the size of the suite, and custom interior design of the room. I’ve never seen anything like it! I felt like a diva…hands down. The Carlton Hotel Presidential Suites are commonly used for private events or even business meeting spaces. The standard guest rooms were also impressive–spacious and modern. The value of this hotel exceeded expectations for a NYC midtown hotel.
Amenities:
Restaurant/Bar: The Carlton Hotel houses the award winning restaurant, Millesime and Oyster Bar as well as Bar Bourdeaux which offers happy hour, live entertainment, great food and drink, and a highly sought after NYC restaurant ambiance. These elegant spaces are often rented for private events.
Gold and Platinum members receive a free breakfast, but when in NYC, you must eat out! I opted to eat my meals outside the hotel. The knowledgeable hotel concierge suggested the perfect eateries for a quick bite or a lengthy romantic NYC dinner.
All in all, The Carlton pleasantly surprises guests with its friendly and accommodating staff and management.
Note: The Carlton Hotel NYC is under construction right now, but open for business! Reduced rates