Hidden Details of The Plaza Hotel, From Lobby to Penthouse | Architectural Digest

Summary

The Plaza Hotel, a New York icon, has long been a symbol of wealth, celebrity, and history. Opened in 1907, its French Renaissance architecture and lavish interiors, such as the Palm Court and Grand Ballroom, have hosted notable figures like the Kennedys and Truman Capote. Over the years, the Plaza has undergone several renovations, preserving its grandeur while adapting to modern needs. Famous for its association with Eloise and offering panoramic views of Central Park, the Plaza Hotel remains a quintessential New York experience, blending luxury, history, and unforgettable moments.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Plaza Hotel, opened in 1907, is one of New York’s most iconic and recognizable buildings, known for its luxury and historical significance.
• 😀 The hotel features French Renaissance architecture, with notable elements like crystal chandeliers, marble walls, and elegant decor.
• 😀 Initially, the Plaza Hotel served as a residence for wealthy New Yorkers, with a large percentage of guests being long-term residents in its early years.
• 😀 The Plaza’s Palm Court is famous for afternoon tea and is considered one of the quintessential New York experiences.
• 😀 The hotel has hosted significant historical events, including Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball in 1966, attended by figures like Frank Sinatra and Andy Warhol.
• 😀 The hotel’s Grand Ballroom has been a venue for numerous high-profile weddings, including those of Donald Trump and Eddie Murphy.
• 😀 The hotel’s Persian Room, which opened after Prohibition, was a renowned nightclub featuring performances by stars like Eartha Kitt and Hildegarde.
• 😀 Eloise, the fictional character created by Kay Thompson, has a special place at the Plaza, with portraits of her hanging in the hotel’s corridors.
• 😀 Over time, the Plaza has undergone several renovations, transforming from a hotel to a combination of a hotel and private residences.
• 😀 The hotel’s famous 59th Street entrance was added in 1921 and became a social hotspot, especially during events like the Beatles’ visit in 1964.
• 😀 The Plaza Hotel has housed many notable residents, including Princess Vilma Palagi, who brought exotic pets, and Frank Lloyd Wright, who lived there in the 1950s.

Q & A

What makes the Plaza Hotel a symbol of New York?

The Plaza Hotel is considered a symbol of New York due to its iconic architecture, history of wealth and celebrity, and its prominent location. It has been a major landmark since its opening in 1907, representing New York's grandeur and luxury.

How did the Plaza Hotel originally cater to its guests in 1907?

In 1907, the Plaza Hotel catered primarily to full-time residents, with 90% of its guests living there permanently. The original restaurant was divided to serve both permanent residents and transient hotel guests.

What was the significance of the Persian Room at the Plaza Hotel?

The Persian Room at the Plaza Hotel, which became a nightclub after Prohibition, was notable for its high-profile performances by acts like Eartha Kitt and Hildegarde. It was a cultural hotspot in the mid-20th century.

What role did Eloise play in the history of the Plaza Hotel?

Eloise, a fictional character created by Kay Thompson, is a beloved figure associated with the Plaza Hotel. She is depicted as living at the hotel, and her portrait, created by Hilary Knight, remains a significant part of the hotel's history and charm.

How did the Plaza Hotel contribute to the city's economy through its ballroom?

The Plaza Hotel's Grand Ballroom has been essential for generating revenue and maintaining the hotel's prominence in New York. It has hosted significant events, including high-profile weddings, and has played an important cultural and financial role for the hotel.

What is the significance of the Plaza Hotel's renovations in the 2000s?

The renovations of the Plaza Hotel in the early 2000s modernized its spaces while preserving its historic charm. The renovations included creating a new hotel lobby and updating the hotel’s rooms and suites to reflect a blend of luxury and tradition.

What is notable about the Plaza Hotel's architectural design?

The Plaza Hotel’s design is in the French Renaissance style, inspired by the chateaus of the Loire Valley. Its grand interiors, including crystal chandeliers and white-and-gold mirrors, reflect high-style architecture from the early 20th century.

How did the Plaza Hotel's relationship with Prohibition impact its history?

During Prohibition, the Plaza Hotel became a discreet location for people to indulge in alcohol, with suites used for this purpose. The hotel also had a nightclub, the Persian Room, where famous entertainers performed, and the hotel adapted to these changing circumstances.

Who were some of the famous figures associated with the Plaza Hotel?

Famous figures associated with the Plaza Hotel include celebrities such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Truman Capote, and Donald Trump. The hotel has hosted numerous notable guests and residents, from artists and writers to socialites and politicians.

What is the significance of the Plaza Hotel's connection to Central Park?

The Plaza Hotel's proximity to Central Park enhances its allure, with many of its rooms offering park-facing views. The hotel was designed to take advantage of this prime location, with its architecture reflecting the green beauty of the park.