ATLANTA - InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) today announces the opening of the newly-renovated, InterContinental New York Barclay, which made its grand debut to New York society in 1926 as one of the original “Railroad” hotels. For generations the hotel served as one of New York’s most preferred addresses and now, The Barclay is celebrating its return following a $180 million, 20-month top-to-bottom renovation with more than 420,000-square-feet of redesigned interiors. The revitalized hotel brings to life The Barclay Experience – quintessential New York sensibility, sustainable practices and a celebration of the thriving, fast-paced local culture, while continuing to offer international expertise.
The Barclay hotel introduces a more open and inviting lobby leading to a new spectacular Carrara marble Grand Staircase. The redesigned property also features 704 spacious guestrooms and suites reminiscent of a classic Park Avenue home, an expansive Club InterContinental® and 15,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed meetings and events spaces.
Jason Moskal, Vice President, Lifestyle Brands, The Americas, IHG said: “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.”
Hervé Houdré, General Manager, InterContinental New York Barclay, added: “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.”
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 carefully selected to reflect the hotel’s 1920’s legacy. Antique maps and early 19th century Hudson River School landscapes, renowned for romanticizing nature and highlighting areas of interest, such as the Catskill Mountains and the Adirondacks, are featured throughout The Barclay’s public spaces and guestrooms. In keeping with the Federalist design motif and sophisticated style, eagle medallion door plates are affixed on each guestroom, a feature that has been preserved from the original Barclay.
With two magnificent ballrooms and five meeting spaces, The Barclay’s 4,954-square-foot Grand Ballroom and its 3,500-square-foot Empire Ballroom feature 17-foot coffered ceilings, exquisite chandeliers, as well as custom crown molding and millwork. At Club InterContinental®, travelers can enjoy a quiet yet engaging space for business and social interactions while indulging in a range of complimentary food and beverage offerings.
Located off The Barclay’s lobby area and inspired by Dutch and English gin bars of the 1920’s, the Gin Parlour offers a venue for novices and aficionados to acquaint themselves with the history of the versatile spirit. Each of its signature cocktails comes to life with a distinct presentation, including the Midtown Apothecary, which is served over aromatized cracked ice and botanicals, and The Hive, featuring honey harvested in New York City complemented by a honey cluster. In addition, the menu features modern fare that pays tribute to the international culture and history of New York City dining, such as Alphabet City Soft Pretzels, as well as locally-sourced Broiled Oysters “Reuben” with Barclay Pickle Relish.
The Barclay, located at 111 E 48th St., is owned by 111 East 48th Street Holdings, LLC and managed by IHG. The InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand is part of IHG’s diverse family of brands in nearly 100 countries and territories. The scale and diversity of the IHG family of brands means that its hotels can meet guests’ needs whatever the occasion – whether an overnight getaway, a business trip, a family celebration or a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Reservations can be made by calling 1-888-IC HOTELS or by going to IHG.com/Intercontinental. The InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand participates in IHG®Rewards Club. The industry’s first and largest hotel rewardsprogram is free, and guests can enroll at IHGRewardsClub.com, by downloading the IHG® App, by calling 1-888-211-9874 or by inquiring at the front desk of any of IHG’s more than 4,900 hotels worldwide. The hotel also participates in IHG Green Engage® and offers unique programs to ensure sustainability.