Sofitel New York to undergo major refurbishment as global brand embarks on ‘new era’
Known as a “quiet oasis” in the heart of Manhattan, the refurbishment of Sofitel New York will encompass all areas of the hotel, including its 398 guest rooms and suites, lobby, meeting spaces, guest elevators and corridors. Public areas are set to be completed by autumn 2025.
Coinciding with the brand’s 60th anniversary this year, the refurbishment is part of an ambitious global project to renew Sofitel. The brand recently unveiled new brand partnerships such as French Bloom and Courbet, a new brand campaign, and new brand ambassadors – Gilian Anderson and Dali Benssalah.
“We are excited to announce the refurbishment of the iconic Sofitel New York in the same year as our 60th anniversary, marking a new era for Sofitel,” said Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems CEO, Maud Bailly.
“With around 20% of our global network undergoing or clearly committed to renovations, including Sofitel Legend The Grand in Amsterdam, and Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, we are actively elevating our guests’ experiences.
“This year, we are opening five new Sofitel hotels worldwide and have already announced two new locations – Sofitel Jaipur Jawahar Circle and Sofitel Legend The Mozart Prague.
“Our goal is to bring a little piece of France everywhere, supported by our dynamic pipeline of 30 hotels set to open by 2027. We also see great potential to expand our French flair in North America, beyond our six existing Sofitel properties.”
Bailly also said efforts are underway to ensure all Sofitel hotels are eco certified by 2025 and that more than 30% of general managers are women by the end of 2025.
At Sofitel New York, seasoned hotelier Dieter Schmitz joins as General Manager, bringing over two decades of experience.
“I am thrilled to return to New York City during such an exciting time for Sofitel New York,” said Schmitz.
“With an unbeatable location and forthcoming renovation, I look forward to introducing our future flagship property to the world.
Our team is committed to excellence and creating personalized guest experiences. We’re taking Sofitel New York to the next level, ensuring the hotel remains an iconic destination in the beating heart of the city.”
Led by designers HBA San Francisco, the hotel’s new look will continue to embrace the brand’s French heritage, blending Parisian style with New York’s urban spirit, drawing inspiration from the significant impact of L’Art Décoratif on the city.
“Patterns derived from Art Deco and Art Moderne motifs, along with French fashion influences, are combined with intricate detailing and luxurious materials to create a sense of refined opulence,” a statement from the brand read.
“Striking works of art add vibrant energy to the sophisticated spaces, embodying New York’s artistic dynamism – chic and irreverent, bold, and sophisticated.”
The hotel will follow a bold colour palette with tones of black, gray, white, and gold, vivid artworks and striking metallic accents.
The entrance will retain the original stonework, complemented by black marble stone and wood at the bell desk, behind which a large-scale art installation will be on display.
The reimagined foyer will feature a custom sculptural lighting installation inspired by the movement of a ballerina’s tutu. Meanwhile, the carpet design in the meeting and event space is influenced by the bold Art Deco patterns of Parisian fashion houses such as Balmain and Gaultier.