The Waldorf Astoria New York has reopened after an eight-year renovation, restoring its Art Deco grandeur while modernizing its spaces. The $2 billion project reduced the hotel’s rooms from 1,400 to 375 larger suites, alongside 372 residences. The Schultze & Weaver façade has been cleaned and restored, and the Grand Ballroom is prepared to host major city events again. Architect Frank Mahan of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill said, “This wasn’t just a restoration. It was a total transformation of the building.” The most celebrated feature, Peacock Alley, now connects the Park Avenue and Lexington Avenue lobbies with tailored seating, chic lighting, and a central Saint Laurent marble bar. French Designer Pierre-Yves Rochon noted, “It’s a place to sit, observe, and feel the life of the hotel.”
Peacock Alley’s redesign drew on historic documents to revive original maple burl walls, black marble columns, and intricate plasterwork. The iconic 11-foot Chicago World’s Fair clock, commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1893, has been restored to its central spot. The space features a carpet inspired by the former Sert Room and music from Cole Porter’s Steinway piano. Guests can now book stays and dine at Peacock Alley, chef Michael Anthony’s Lex Yard brasserie, and the Japanese restaurant Yoshoku.