Some initial renderings are surfacing for the refurbishment of the Waldorf Astoria New York, which is now set for an early 2023 reopening, a few months later than planned. Waldorf’s development team has reportedly mitigated most COVID-related impacts to maintain the construction schedule.
For the so many industry executives who have attended the NYU hotel investment conference, for many years held at the Waldorf, renderings of the Grand Ballroom have been revealed. It’s also now a designated New York City interior landmark.
The room also has hosted countless legendary, glamorous events like Prince Rainier III of Monaco and Grace Kelly’s engagement party, President John F. Kennedy’s birthday gala, the April in Paris Ball, and annual galas such as the Alfred E. Smith Dinner, Viennese Opera Ball, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
“Waldorf Astoria New York’s Grand Ballroom is a truly unique place with a profound history and art deco design that is irreplaceable. It has hosted the world, from Queen Elizabeth II to Mick Jagger,” said Frank Mahan, associate director at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). “In 1931, Schultze & Weaver’s intent for the space—a singular space with a luminous ceiling that floats above—couldn’t be fully realized due to contemporary technological limitations. But now, not only are we preserving the space, we are finally able to bring to life the original architects’ vision. We can’t wait to see the next generation of New Yorkers and global celebrations in the reinvigorated Grand Ballroom.”
While the space has undergone several renovations over the last century, the development team is returning the space to its 1931 splendor. The building’s original architects, Schultze & Weaver, were limited by the technology of their time. The new ballroom will realize certain elements they intended but were not feasible in the early 20thcentury.
Here is some key and interesting information about the space:
- Waldorf Astoria New York’s Grand Ballroom is one of the largest in New York City accommodating well over 1,000 people in 15,000-plus square feet.
- Some may remember design elements such as the central chandelier, which will not be coming back, as it is not original. That piece was added to provide supplemental lighting. The 1931 design called for a brilliant central ceiling medallion which will be revealed for the first time in decades.
- Structural isolation is a key feature of the restored Grand Ballroom, allowing for the full enjoyment of weddings, concerts, and galas without any disturbance to the rest of the building.
- Advanced bookings will open in the coming months.
