NEW YORK—The InterContinental New York Barclay has reopened following an extensive $180 million, 20-month top-to-bottom renovation with more than 420,000-sq.-ft. of redesigned interiors.
The Barclay hotel introduces a more open and inviting lobby leading to a new Carrara marble grand staircase. The redesigned property also features 704 guestrooms and suites reminiscent of a classic Park Ave. home, an expansive Club InterContinental and 15,000 sq. ft. of redesigned meetings and events spaces. The hotel’s new Gin Parlour offers 88 premium gins alongside other preferred wines and spirits, as well as a new locally sourced menu.
The Barclay, located at 111 E 48th St., is owned by 111 East 48th Street Holdings, LLC and managed by IHG.
“As one of the iconic heritage properties for the InterContinental brand, The Barclay represents a rich history of luxury travel in New York City. While this history is strong and prolific, the needs and wants of the modern traveler have evolved through the decades. Bringing modern design and functionality, a signature bar that serves classic gin cocktails with a unique twist and elegant meeting and event space, the revitalized Barclay showcases today’s intercontinental life to travelers and locals alike,” said Jason Moskal, VP, lifestyle brands, The Americas, IHG.
“The InterContinental New York Barclay has been a Manhattan feature for more than 90 years. The hotel’s introduction to the city’s skyline coincided with the debut of famous landmarks, such as the Chrysler Building, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman. While the rejuvenation of the Barclay inspires us to look back and reflect on the hotel’s storied past, it also allows the hotel to open a new chapter, welcoming a new generation of globally-minded guests who are looking for a residential-style New York escape,” said Hervé Houdré, general manager, InterContinental New York Barclay.
Cross & Cross, the architectural firm behind Fifth Ave.’s Tiffany & Co. building, originally designed the Barclay. Under the direction of IHG Design Studio, architects Stonehill + Taylor, interior design firm HOK (formerly BBGM) and Shawmut Construction worked together to restore and enhance the property’s original style, while adding contemporary touches.
Artwork was selected to reflect the hotel’s 1920s legacy. Antique maps and early 19th century Hudson River School landscapes are featured throughout The Barclay’s public spaces and guestrooms. Period details such as classical urns, sculptures and busts, as well as damask and rinceau patterns can be seen throughout the hotel. In keeping with the Federalist design motif, eagle medallion door plates are affixed on each guestroom, a feature that has been preserved from the original Barclay.