InterContinental Hotels Group, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced 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.
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.
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 revitalised 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.
“As one of the iconic heritage properties for the InterContinental brand, The Barclay represents a rich history of luxury travel in New York City,” says Jason Moskal, Vice President, Lifestyle Brands, The Americas, IHG.
“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.”
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.
