The Beekman

The Beekman, the hotly anticipated Thompson Hotel, opened last year. Designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS), the hotel is poised to become the destination for New Yorkers and its visitors in Lower Manhattan’s vibrant neighbourhood. The rich architectural story of the 1881 Temple Court guided the design of the hotel. From its distinctive Queen Anne exterior, to the Bretonian beauty of the dilapidated Victorian interior found inside, The Beekman has such provenance. Building on from the historic roots, The Studio created a new story and dialogue through the use of exquisite materials, rich tones and a plethora of curiosities, continuing The Beekman’s legacy as one of New York’s last architectural treasures.

Upon arrival guests are greeted with a sense of familiarity yet with an edge of intrigue through the novel use of pattern and texture. A black and white marble mosaic floors in a hexagonal pattern leads to a reception desk upholstered in a patchwork of colourful rugs, further adorned with a dark, antiqued timber top. The surrounding walls are panelled with rich timber and feature a decorative freeze, above which are walls which have been stripped back to reveal the original plasterwork. Hanging overhead are whitewashed timber chandeliers decorated with gold leaf to further enhance an elevated sense of being whilst staying honest to the building’s organic beauty. Accents of orange and blue can be found around the room, adding dynamic colour to the rich timber hues. The seating comprises of a variety of armchairs and sofas, upholstered in yellow chenille and green mohair and sits atop a large colourful rug.

The crown of this architectural jewel, the nine-storey atrium has been restored to its former grandeur, with its Victorian wrought-iron railings and balustrades, intricately ornamented with flowers, dragons and sunburst. The pyramidal skylight above has been restored to once again bathe the space in light. The atrium forms a new stage where the New York social scene can gather around intimate seating areas with an eclectic selection of furniture.

Hand-picked sofas and chairs transform the space into a room curated by an informed connoisseur whom had acquired pieces over the years. From 19th Century floor lamps to mid-century chairs, the furniture collection mimics that of the well-travelled, encouraging the act of relaxation and reflection. Five double-sided timber and glass bookcases, complete with custom antiqued brass hardware help to divide and lift the space. The carefully curated selection of books and curiosities, illuminated in soft light, deepen the meditative ambience of the grand atrium.

Complementing the world class food by Tom Colicchio, the restaurant will be as much a destination as the hotel in its own right. Showcasing a classic downtown aesthetic with a luxurious edge, the restaurant acts as a social hub of New York’s social scene. The restaurant plays between both industrial and refned styles with an exposed red brick wall, grey leather and mohair velvet upholstery, bespoke timber chairs and antique brass detailing. A stained glass window in an abstract patchwork of green, red, blue, purple and yellow lies alongside a large mural which reflects the history of the impressive building.

Each of the 247 fully appointed rooms at The Beekman combine all of the character of this landmark building with the quality and convenience of a deluxe hotel experience. The high-ceilings, an aged oak floor and simple off-white walls frame the space and recall a Manhattan classic prewar style, as an eclectic yet simple mix of materials, textures, and furnishings give the interiors an elegantly curated look.

Rooms feature custom oak beds with cream leather headboards as well as bespoke blue velvet sofas, found in the window seating area. Each light and airy space includes an Edwardian walnut breakfast table, a separate desk complete with a metal-framed chair in burgundy leather and a mini-bar, which consists of an antique table, thick patterned cloth and silver tray stacked full of liquor bottles, further adding to the residential feel. The inspiring collection of interiors includes vintage lamps sourced from antique dealers across the world, alluding to the worldly feeling of the landmark hotel.

The bathrooms have been given a luxurious touch, with off-white Carrera marble and hexagonal floor patterns. The vanity units, also in an off-white marble, are crafted with a timber farmhouse apron sink and a polished metal washstand, continuing the vintage aesthetic. The premium room bathrooms provide guests with free standing tubs, a larger walk-in shower and double vanity units. The unique bespoke and vintage items give a lived-in atmosphere and a warm and comfortable home away from home.

No detail has been overlooked as the common areas mirror the stripped-back decadence found in the hotel. The lifts are carpeted and feature embossed leather walls framed in antiqued brass, with an antiqued brass wainscot panel below and crown mouldings above. Stepping out onto the corridors, guests can admire the ornate wrought-iron detailing around the atrium as they look up towards the pyramidal skylight above or down to the impressive lobby area. Floors with original encaustic tiles in terracotta reds, golds and chocolate browns feature a runner down the middle crafted from hand-tufted wool. The walls feature traditional Eastlake patterned wallpaper associated with the late 19th Century and the buildings inception. Beneath the balconies above, octagonal globe pendant fxtures provide light around the atrium common areas.

The redesign of The Beekman enlivens the landmark and its historic treasures while bringing a new, elegant intrigue to the building with vintage eclecticism and unexpected colour. The transformed building grounds and atrium will serve as a timeless epicentre of Lower Manhattan’s social landscape and a special place to call home for frequent New York visitors.

Martin Brudnizki Design Studio