Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts has unveiled The Prince Kitano New York following a comprehensive renovation. Formerly known as The Kitano Hotel New York, the refreshed property is now part of The Prince portfolio, the company’s flagship hotel brand. The Prince Kitano New York is Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts’ first property located in the continental U.S., marking a significant step forward in the company’s evolution from a Japanese hotel brand to a global hospitality brand.
The Prince Kitano New York offers easy access to Grand Central Terminal, the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building and other landmarks. The property dates to the 19th century when the building was owned by the Rockefeller family. In 1973, it found new life as The Kitano Hotel New York, gaining renown as the first Japanese-owned hotel in New York City. Now operated by Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts, The Prince Kitano New York will continue to pay homage to its history with experiences rooted in Japanese culture.
Prince Hotels & Resorts tapped global architecture firm Modellus Novus to spearhead the redesign of several signature spaces throughout the property, including the lobby, restaurant areas and guestrooms.
Upon entering the building, guests are greeted by a dog sculpture created by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The bronze sculpture, having welcomed generations of guests who established a tradition of petting it for good fortune, was shifted to the lobby’s entrance. Akari Light Sculptures from Isamu Noguchi illuminate the space, and other elements include rice paper accents, blue suede chairs, pea green velvet pillows and eggplant-colored carpets.
The hotel has 150 accommodations, of which 109 guestrooms and suites were refurbished as part of the reopening.
The Prince Kitano New York offers a range of culinary destinations. On the lower floor sits Hakubai, a restaurant celebrating the Japanese tradition of kaiseki. At Hillside Café, which is open for breakfast and lunch, guests can relish fare with American and Japanese influences. In the evening, Roof at 66 Park, the hotel’s lively rooftop bar on the 18th floor, offers craft cocktails, wines and shareable bites against the backdrop of the cityscape.
For more information, visit kitano.princehotels.com.
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