NEW YORK—Anbang Insurance Group New York Office and AECOM Tishman will begin the first phase of construction work to renovate and restore the historic Waldorf Astoria New York in December.
Since the Waldorf Astoria New York achieved the designation as New York City’s largest private interior landmark, Anbang has made significant progress toward renovating the property, according to the company. The development team has advanced design plans, secured permits and carefully moved, preserved and stored prized historic items, including the Cole Porter piano, the World’s Fair Clock Tower, the Kennedy Rocking Chair and the MacArthur Desk. The company has now appointed AECOM Tishman to spearhead the first phase of construction.
“After months of meticulous planning and careful preparation, we are ready to begin the next phase of the renovation and have assembled an exceptional team to advance the project. We look forward to working closely with AECOM Tishman to carry out one of the most extensive restoration and renovation projects in New York City,” said Brandon Dong, managing director of the Waldorf Astoria New York Project of Anbang. “The Waldorf Astoria New York is truly a global icon and quintessential New York City landmark, and our combined team shares a commitment to preserving this historic property’s legacy and restoring its original beauty while elevating it to set a new standard of luxury and hospitality.”
“The Waldorf Astoria New York is where our brand’s history of timeless luxury and inspirational environments began,” said John T.A. Vanderslice, global head of Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. “We have been working closely and collaboratively with Anbang on the renovation of the Waldorf Astoria New York, and we are confident that the restoration will ensure that the hotel retains its rightful place as a focal point for New York City and a premier destination for the world.”
The Waldorf Astoria New York will feature restored public and event spaces, approximately 350 new guestrooms and suites, and approximately 350 residences. Anbang released plans for the building’s landmarked interior and exterior elements in March 2017 that architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and interior designer Pierre Yves Rochon (PYR) prepared.