NEW YORK -- Starwood Hotels and Resorts said it will open its
fourth W hotel in New York, converting the Guardian Life building
at the northeast corner of Union Square Park to the W Hotel at
Union Square.
The 20-story former office building, which was built in 1911,
will reemerge in November with 270 rooms and suites and the W
brand's "eclectic mix of fashion-inspired details and decorative
arts," according to the company.
The new hotel will make its debut approximately one year after W
Hotels' November 1999 launch of W New York -- the Court and the
Tuscany, the city's second and third W hotels, located side-by-side
on 39th Street between Lexington and Park avenues.
"The successful growth of the W brand has already exceeded our
expectations, and plans for a fourth property in New York is proof
positive of our untapped demand," said Barry Sternlicht, chairman
and chief executive officer of Starwood Hotels and Resorts.
"We are particularly excited about the 'trophy' landmark Union
Square property, at a vibrant crossroads for upscale dining,
shopping and nightlife, with easy access to midtown," he said.
In fact, Union Square Park was refurbished in the late 1980s and
now has a colorful green market at its western and northern edges
on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
W Hotels said the property's design will "reflect the past while
creating a showcase for W Hotels' contemporary style."
Designed in beaux arts style, the Guardian Life building
features a granite and limestone facade, a four-story mansard roof
and other features that recall the building's French influence.
A grand staircase will take guests from the lobby lounge and bar
to the two-story, 2,300-square-foot ballroom with two prefunction
rooms and four meeting rooms with park views.
The property will include a 3,000-square-foot bar; a
3,100-square-foot restaurant; a double-height lobby lounge area;
more than 7,000 square feet of meeting space on the second and
mezzanine floors, and a fitness center.
For business travelers, the hotel will provide the latest
amenities and high-tech capabilities, including 27-inch color
televisions equipped with speedy Internet access (via infrared
keyboards); high-speed data-port connectivity at speeds up to 100
times faster than conventional data modems, and private e-mail
access.
Each room will have two telephones; the trademark W bed with a
pillow-top mattress, 250-thread-count linens and goose down
comforters and pillows; an oversized desk; an upholstered chaise
longue, and designer room accessories.
W Hotels
Phone: (877) WHOTELS
Web: www.whotels.com