Waldorf Astoria New York to undergo massive renovation

The Waldorf Astoria New York originally opened in 1893 on the current site of the Empire State Building. In 1931 it opened at its current location on Park Avenue. In 1993 it was designated an official New York City landmark. Now, in 2017, the Waldorf Astoria New York has closed its doors in order to undergo one of the most complex and intensive landmark preservation efforts the City of New York has ever seen.

Plans for the renovation were recently submitted for public review by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. The plans, which were designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, outline the restoration all of the recently landmarked interior spaces.

If approved, the restoration will modernize the building’s functional capability and revive key elements of the Art Deco building that have been altered over time. The building’s historic public and events spaces will be restored to their original intent. Additionally, when the hotel reopens, it will feature new guest rooms, suites, and condominiums.

"Our design for the Waldorf Astoria New York reclaims the full potential of one of New York City's most legendary buildings and opens a new chapter in the hotel's celebrated history,” says Roger Duffy, Design Partner, SOM, in a release. “We are honored to be leading the effort to restore this Art Deco masterpiece, while turning it into a world-class destination for the 21st century."

SOM has previously led restoration and adaptive reuse projects for other New York landmarks such as the Moynihan Train Hall and the General Electric Building headquarters.

If everything stays on schedule, the Waldorf Astoria New York will reopen in two to three years.

Lobby. Rendering courtesy of SOM and Methanoia Inc.

Lexington Entry. Rendering courtesy of SOM and Methanoia Inc.

Peacock Alley. Rendering courtesy of SOM and Methanoia Inc.