Accumulation yields results: The Warren Street Hotel in New York experiences a surge.
Taking a Dive into Firmdale's Colorful Oasis in Tribeca
New York City's exclusive neighborhood of Tribeca has a new star attraction, and it's dazzling in sky blue. Firmdale Hotels, with its creative force Kit Kemp, has set up shop in a disused parking lot, now transformed into the Warren Street Hotel. This colorful, vibrant hotspot is the perfect spot for a coffee with friends or a neck-loosening martini at the bar before heading home.
As I stumbled onto the scene, jet-lagged and phone-less on a dismal Sunday, the hotel's steel and glass facade stood out like a beacon among the gloom, and I was relieved to find my sanctuary. Opened in February 2024, the Warren Street Hotel quickly became the go-to neighborhood hangout—a stylish and energetic new addition to the Tribeca scene.
The lobby, typical of all Firmdale establishments, is a mini contemporary art gallery, featuring installations by Argentine artist Cristián Mohaded and a Tony Cragg sculpture that, at first glance, looks like a bench. But fear not, dear drinkers, you'll soon find it's a bar. Cheers to that! The 19th-century textile industry influences run deep throughout the property, with Kit Kemp's signature mix of bold patterns and luxurious fabrics adorning every inch.
The staff, a friendly bunch of informed American politeness, welcomed me and my fellow Brits with open arms (and cucumber sandwiches, if you're lucky). In addition to the restaurant, bar, and living room, the hotel boasts an honesty bar in the living room, where you can find delightful mythical mixology elixirs. Simply mix yourself a stiff concoction, write your room number on a little pad of paper, and the bill will appear in a puff of smoke. Or so I've heard.
Rooms Fit for a Queen (or a Stylish British Aunt)
With 69 individually designed rooms and suites, each one is a unique artistic masterpiece. My 11th-floor suite felt like stepping into the Downton Abbey of the future, with its living room area, Chesterfield sofa, coffee table piled high with Kit Kemp's interior design books, and stunning view of One World Trade Center. The color scheme was serene yet captivating, with restful aqua-colored fabric wallpaper and a blue-and-white theme enlivened by reds and ochres.
The rooms are delightfully bright, thanks to floor-to-ceiling Crittal windows, and offer breathtaking views of the city, from the New York skyline to the enchanting "Jenga Building" at 56 Leonard. As with all Firmdale hotels, beds feature giant headboards covered in fabulous fabrics that often match the sofas, letting your naked body laze among familiar hues and patterns.
Bathrooms are nothing short of a spa experience, with marble counters, double sinks, and walk-in showers. And for those seeking the ultimate relaxation, fear not: Suites are graced with freestanding bathtubs—the perfect place to soothe your wearied body after a long day of battling New York City's concrete jungle.
A Feast for the Eyes and the Palate
The Warren Street Bar and Restaurant, just off the lobby, is an explosion of color and art, with straight-up classics and seasonal dishes that'll leave your taste buds dancing to the beat of New York City. After a Tribeca Citizen (a potent mix of Santa Teresa rum, Suze, Falernum, pineapple, lime, citrus oleo, and allspice bitters), you'll think the 20ft suspended sculpture by Gareth Devonald Smith is a set of white teeth with the occasional gold filling—but fear not, it's merely an avant-garde art piece.
It's a flashy space, with an international menu that spans unctuous burrata tricolore salads to Dover sole meunière, via ceviche and cacio e pepe. The afternoon tea is a must, with a kids' version for those who find it difficult to contain their inner British royalty. You can indulge in this delightful tradition, served from 1:30 PM to 5 PM during the week and from noon to 5 PM at weekends.
Art, Exercise, and Everything in Between
This is a small hotel, with no gym or spa, but fear not: it partners with Nexus members club, a hop, skip, and a jump away, where you'll find a sleek gym and wellness center, perfect for working off those extra cucumber sandwiches. Fancy a guided art tour of the hotel? Kit Kemp's daughter Willow, the design director, is more than happy to give you a tour, and later, you can chat art with a drink handcrafted just for you in the bar.
Overall, the Warren Street Hotel is the perfect blend of contemporary luxury, artistic inspiration, and British charm, making it a must-stay destination for any traveler looking for an unforgettable New York City experience.
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Inside Tip: Join Kit Kemp's daughter Willow on an art tour of the hotel, where you'll catch a hint of the passion that drives her family's art-filled empire. Then, sink a few art-inspired cocktails at the bar and feels as if you've truly become part of the Tribeca scene.
The Fine Print
Number of rooms and suites: 69Rates: From $825Address: 86 Warren Street, New York, NY 10007Website: Warren Street HotelDirections: Google Maps
The Warren Street Hotel, with its extensive offerings from fashion-and-beauty and lifestyle retail space to food-and-drink options like the Cheers-inspired honesty bar in the living room and the vibrant Warren Street Bar and Restaurant, is an exciting destination for travelers. For those seeking relaxation, the home-and-garden sanctuary of the rooms, with freestanding bathtubs in suites and restful color schemes, provides a soothing retreat. After a day of exploration in the bustling city, guests can unwind amidst the colorful art installations, sip on art-inspired cocktails, and immerse themselves in the local Tribeca culture.
