Waldorf Astoria New York Releases Proposed Plans for Restoration

Waldorf Astoria New York released its proposed plans for the extensive restoration and revitalization of the historic property’s exterior and interior spaces. Architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon (PYR) prepared the plans.

This restoration is among the most complex and intensive landmark preservation efforts in New York City history. If approved, it will revive key elements of the Art Deco masterpiece that have been altered over time, reflecting the hotel's original intent while modernizing the building's functional capability.

In addition to historic public and event spaces restored to their original intent, the Waldorf will add new guest rooms, suites and condominiums when it reopens.

When The Waldorf re-opens in two to three years, it will continue to be operated by Hilton as part of a 100-year management agreement.

SOM will lead the architectural design team for the project. The New York-based architecture firm has overseen restoration and adaptive reuse projects for several New York City landmarks, including Moynihan Train Hall, the General Electric Building headquarters and Lever House.

PYR will lead the interior design of the hotel, including its public areas and guestrooms. Since its founding in 1979, the firm has focused exclusively on five-star luxury hotels – including the forthcoming Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills scheduled to open June 2017 – fine dining restaurants and private residences.

Originally opened in 1893 on the present site of the Empire State Building, the Waldorf Astoria New York opened at its current Park Avenue location in 1931, was designated an official New York City landmark in 1993 and had its most important interior spaces landmarked in 2017.