Renaissance Hotels has debuted its fifth property in New York City, Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel.
The hotel is the tallest building north of Central Park and the brand’s first hotel in Harlem, according to the brand. The property has 211 guestrooms and suites and more than 9,000 sq. ft. of event space. The hotel features the original landmark marquee from the historic Victoria Theater on 125th St. and is steps away from the storied Apollo Theater.
“Harlem is a historical epicenter of art, cuisine, music, and culture and is of the upmost importance that we stay true to the authenticity of the locale—from the details in the design to our daily programming and entertainment,” said Jennifer Connell, global brand leader, Renaissance Hotels. “In bringing the Renaissance Hotel brand to this famed neighborhood, we are inviting travelers near and far to enjoy all that this community has to offer.”
The hotel, owned by Lam Generation and managed by Real Hospitality Group, sits in the Victoria Building, previously home to the Victoria Theater. Initially established as a vaudeville venue in 1917, the theater was later transformed into a cinema before remaining unused for many years. Preserving the essence of the Victoria Theater, the hotel conserves its outer facade, marquee, outdoor ticket booth and staircase that graces the building’s entrance.
Conceptualized by AJC design and in line with Renaissance Hotels’ design approach across its global portfolio, the very fabric of Harlem’s past, present and future is ingrained into its architecture and every design element. The ambiance pays homage to the cultural iconography of Harlem, honoring musical legends such as Billie Holiday, Josephine Baker, Louis Armstrong and Cab Calloway. The property features custom artistic renditions of these icons, as well as a contemporary art piece of Harlem on the library ceiling. The 211 guestrooms include a mix of 107 single rooms, 101 doubles and three suites featuring Langston Hughes quotes adorning the walls, views of Harlem and Central Park, plush bedding and modern amenities.
Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel’s restaurant, The Victoria, operated by Silk Hospitality Group, encompasses a marble bar, lounge seating and a fifth-floor mezzanine that overlooks the heart of the hotel. Drawing inspiration from the cultural landscape of Harlem, the Victoria features a menu by Executive Chef Bobby Bouyer that offers a creative twist on modern global cuisine told through the lens of classic technique with nods to the cuisine of the Gulf Region of the American South.
The hotel will introduce its ‘Evenings at Renaissance’ with entertainment, including nightly jazz performances at the bar’s signature grand piano and local arts performances that celebrate the culture of Harlem.
“We are thrilled to announce the openi,ng of Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel, a project that not only aims to revitalize the neighborhood but also honor the cultural legacy of the Harlem Renaissance,” said Lewiston Murray, GM, Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel. “Our vision is to create an inviting space for the community and guests alike to experience Harlem in its fullness through unexpected dining, celebratory beverage rituals, jazz performances, original artwork and more.”
