Landmark Hotel Preps for $100M Redo

NEW YORK CITY-Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces revealed that the Pierre, New York’s landmark hotel on Central Park and Fifth Avenue, will enter the second phase of renovation beginning Jan. 1. Estimated overall cost associated with the renovation program is $100 million.

All 200 guest accommodations, including the 11 Grand Suites with apartment-like quarters and private terraces, 41 suites and all guest rooms will be upgraded and renovated, as will the corridors, public areas, Cafe Pierre and the bar. Overseeing the design is James Park Associates, whose past projects include the Taj Lake Palace Hotel, Udaipur, India; Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives; Taj Exotica Resort, Mauritius, as well as the redesign of Singapore Airlines’ first-class cabins.

The first phase of the Pierre renovation was completed in January 2007 by Alexandra Champalimaud & Associates, and included the Grand Ballroom, the Cotillion Room and foyer. All banquet spaces on the second floor will remain open, fully staffed and operative throughout the second phase of renovation, and will remain accessible by a private entrance on 61st Street. Advance bookings for 2008 are very strong, according to general manager Heiko Kuenstle, with weddings, nonprofit charity events, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, corporate events, holiday parties and financial conferences planned.