We’re big fans of 1 Hotel, the luxury sustainable hotel brand that made its London debut in Mayfair in 2023
Our first stay at a 1 Hotel was actually the Brooklyn Bridge property back in 2022, however, and it set the bar high with its incredible views, big rooms (by New York standards) and strong eco credentials. So on our first trip back to New York since then, we were keen to check out their other location, over in Manhattan by Central Park.
Opened in 2015, this was the first 1 Hotel to launch in NYC, and its location couldn’t be better — it’s a block south of Central Park and within easy walking distance of Fifth Avenue, Columbus Circle, and MOMA. Despite being in the thick of Manhattan, the hotel feels surprisingly peaceful, especially on the upper floors, where you’ll find yourself peering down on neighbouring rooftops.
True to form, sustainability is front and centre of the design. You’ll find reclaimed wood, locally-sourced stone, and living green walls throughout the public spaces, plus upcycled materials in every room — think hemp-blend mattresses, wall panels made from old wood water tanks and ceiling made from old reclaimed New York barnwood. The room keys are made from recycled wood, showers are fitted with five-minute timers, and the lights are on motion sensors that cut down energy use when you’re out. All lights are LED lower energy bulbs too. We also love little touches around the hotel, like the free fruit from local farms in the lobby and the courtesy electronic Audi that will drop you anywhere within a two mile radius free of charge.
We stayed in a City Lounge King room, which offers a bit more space than the standard and includes a nice built-in window seat – perfect for taking in the Midtown skyline with a morning coffee. As with all 1 Hotel rooms, the interiors have a nice blend of industrial edge and natural materials, while still managing to maintain a proper 5-star luxury feel. The bathroom comes with a large rainfall shower and Bamford products, and there’s a Nespresso machine with recyclable pods, plus a minibar stocked with local snacks and drinks.
Jams is the hotel’s all-day restaurant, led by chef Jonathan Waxman, and it sources all ingredients from local New York farmers as well as from the hotel’s own rooftop herb garden. The weekend brunch is especially popular here, with dishes like avocado toast, lemon ricotta pancakes, and wood-fired flatbreads. The bar serves up cocktails with local spirits and zero-waste ingredients, plus a strong list of wines and craft beers.
The hotel also has a 24-hour gym (handy for those early jet-lag induced mornings after flying over from London) and while this location doesn’t have a spa or rooftop like some of the other 1 Hotels, you’re only a quick walk from Central Park if you need a need to grab some peace and quiet.
In a city that’s fast-paced and full-on in the best kind of way, 1 Hotel Central Park is a slice of calm that doesn’t sacrifice location, style, or substance. For those who want to stay sustainably without skimping on luxury, it’s one of NYC’s best bets.
1414 Sixth Avenue New York, NY 10019
1hotels.com
Source link
