Where old New York meets new New York is the HGU hotel in the NoMad District. Alfa Development, one of Manhattan’s leading real estate companies, opened the boutique property this year, investing $18 million in renovations. The hotel manifests the city’s history through its original architecture, curated art programming and multifaceted eclectic design. While the landmark building preserves its history, contemporary style is sprinkled throughout. Gallery 151, a premier contemporary art gallery based in lower Manhattan, partnered with HGU to showcase pieces drawing inspiration from urban backdrops of the city’s emerging artists and icons.
We talked with owner and Alfa Development Founder and CEO Michael Namer about the most requested room and what makes the hotel so special.
Most requested room:
Room 701 or 908, the King Suite.
HGU Hotel
Rate:
Approximately $500 to $1,000 per night
Your personal favorite:
The King Suite (701) is my favorite
HGU Hotel
Because…
There is original artwork form Larry Rivers showcased in the room and an original photograph of Yoko Ono and John Lennon. It’s very special and unique. The room itself is configured to make you feel at home in the middle of the city – there is a window seat and two bathrooms. It is very cozy.
Celebrity guests:
Emily Ratajkowski, Jesse Metcalfe, Cara Santana, Shea Marie, Lance Thomas, Keith Bullock, Michael Weatherly, Ryan Cartwright, Stanaj of Republic Records and Jason Flom have all stayed at HGU New York.
HGU Hotel
Fun facts:
During construction, we found some newspapers in the walls and one of them was about the 1905 Lounge area and how it was a speakeasy in the 1920s that was raided; that was our inspiration for the 1905 Lounge.
HGU New York offers a pillow concierge service where guests can enjoy soft, medium, firm, any kind of pillow they request.
