An icon reinvented: New York Marriott Marquis renovated & reimagined

The celebrated Times Square Hotel New York Marriott Marquis, the Marriott signature flag, has completed its multi-million dollar renovation, reclaiming its revolving crown at the epicentre of Times Square…

New York Marriott Marquis Broadway Lounge-view over Times square New York

Opened in 1985 amid the rejuvenation of Times Square, New York Marriott Marquis’ vibrant location provided inspiration for architecture and interior design firms at conception, and continued to provide the narrative for Stonehill Taylor, which oversaw the redesign of the hotel’s public and event spaces, and Sawyer & Company, which led the design of the guestrooms and suites. Both firms drew from the 360 degrees of billboard lights experienced by visitors to Times Square. In addition, Stonehill Taylor centered the hotel’s renovation design concept on the theme of ‘Kaleidoscope of Energy’.

“The reflections, flow of energy, and vivacity that encapsulate Times Square were central references for this project,” said Sara Duffy, Principal at Stonehill Taylor. “We fed off the spirit of the hotel’s surroundings while simultaneously constructing a comfortable, rejuvenating stay for guests. The end result was a design that perfectly balances elegant playfulness and interactive experiences with flexible and varied seating, strategically open yet distinctive zones, and an artful New York theme that carries throughout the hotel.”

reflections from Times Square billboards at outdoor terrace and seating at the New York Marriott Marquis

Image credit: Marriott International

On arrival to the eighth-floor lobby, visitors will find a reoriented space designed for a seamless and energising arrival experience. The hotel’s reception desks have been moved from the south side to the north side of the hotel, opening the northernmost wall to natural light with installed prismatic waved glass, and adding to the whimsical motifs throughout the space. Reception desks are now separated by archways made of playful wood panelling, and a lit acrylic 3-D sculpture by Parachilna sits on a plinth along with Kaleidoscope-inspired New York City artwork by Kalisher.

Each of the hotel’s 1,971 spacious guestrooms have been completely updated with a modern, thoughtful design complemented by locally inspired accents to draw in the energy of the city. New features include mounted, high-definition televisions; expanded closets, deluxe walk-in showers with spa-like lighting, and ultra-comfortable platform beds. The plethora of storage and sizable floor space sets these rooms apart from standard city accommodations, and a calm, neutral colour palette joined by bright accents centres guests among the hotel’s iconic views. Additionally, through the first-of-its-kind, longstanding global partnership with Marriott Hotels and TED, guests will continue to have access to thoughtfully curated in-room TED content to enjoy during their stay.

seating and bed in neutral shades in suite at New York Marriott Marquis

Image credit: Marriott International

In addition to the hotel’s redesign, New York Marriott Marquis has now partnered with the renowned Union Square Hospitality Group and Union Square Events on the food and beverage concepts at three updated restaurants, as well as the catering for hotel events. Featuring spectacular, two-story wall-to-ceiling windows overlooking Times Square and the Great White Way’s dazzling lights, Broadway Lounge offers an unmatched experience in the centre of it all. A small taste of a big New York experience, the restaurant’s menu centres around bold flavours and features wood fired pizzas, gourmet snacks, and handcrafted cocktails. To either side of Broadway Lounge is Perch, the venue’s intimate outdoor terrace where guests can soak in the energy of Times Square.

tables set for dinner in the Broadway Lounge overlooking Times Square New York

Image credit: Marriott International

Tucked away under the ninth floor is Revel & Rye Bar and Restaurant. Reminiscent of an old school whiskey bar, Revel & Rye provides a sophisticated atmosphere for guests to indulge in over 20 wines by the glass, an extensive American whiskey list, and a New York themed dining menu. Inspired by theatre marquees, the bar is fitted with linear piped lighting that flows from the bar back onto a metallic gold ceiling, creating an ambient and cosy atmosphere. The bright lights of Times Square have also been brought indoors with two large LED ‘billboards’ positioned on either side of the restaurant, inviting guests to gather to watch the latest sporting events, movies, and more.

seating and lighting in the Revel and Rye bar

Image credit: Marriott International

The hotel also features an expansive Atrium Greatroom lobby – a stylish hub of the hotel that serves as a great social gathering place for both day and night. The contemporary décor and layout provide guests with a space to relax, collaborate with colleagues or grab a night cap.

On the hotel’s ninth floor, The Terrace – a dramatic open event space under a soaring atrium, connecting the Marquis Ballroom to the Jolson, Cantor, and Barrymore Rooms – was expanded to serve as an additional functional event space, complete with streetlamp-inspired lighting. Meeting spaces and pre-function event spaces on floors three through seven, including the Broadway Ballroom and Marquis Theatre foyer, feature newly designed carpets and wall coverings. Milliken carpet patterns are reminiscent of overlapping starbursts and kaleidoscopes, tying the hotel’s theme together neatly. The largest ballroom stage in the city, The Broadway Ballroom, now also has a state-of the-art sound system, which extends to the balconies and wings, providing smooth continuous audio with exceptional sound quality.

Main image credit: Marriott International