A new hotel brand opens in New York City’s NoMad neighborhood next month, creating the first-ever Life Hotel. Housed in the historic LIFE magazine building, the new 98-room property offers a work-play experience for travelers.
Inspired by the LIFE magazine history, first published in 1893, hotel developers honor the magazine’s building by creating a space that combines a hotel with the former elements of the office building. As the building houses a secret bar during Prohibition, the hotel features a basement speakeasy bar and restaurant. Designers restored the building to its former glory with craftsmanship harkening back to the late 1800s, and a namesake restaurant was added.
“When I first stepped foot into this building, it spoke to me, and ultimately became the inspiration for the Life Hotel brand,” says real estate developer David Mitchell. “In learning about the cultural landmark and its history, we discovered that the upper floors served as apartments for LIFE writers and artists when the magazine was first published in 1893. This history has become part of our DNA. We’re creating a place to hang out, work, and have a good time, not just sleep and eat.”
Guest rooms at the hotel feature queen beds, king beds and multi-room suites featuring wood floors, exposed concrete and high ceilings. Sixty-inch, flat-screen TVs and amenities like pet-friendly rooms are offered. The hotel is located at 19 West 31st Street and opens April 10, 2017. Rates begin at $249 per night.
–Lissa Poirot
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