Many people dread the thought of finding an affordable place to stay when they visit New York City due to the hope that when you walk in you hopefully will not find a reason to take a 2nd shower that day due to how gross the place looks and feel. Affinia Hotels does the exact opposite- it has great rates for all of their types of rooms and comes with a ton of amenities that work well for a variety of “stay-scenarios”. I got to spend a night at the Affinia 50, located at the corner of 50th and 3rd Street in Midtown a couple of weeks ago to much happiness and satisfaction with many aspects one looks for when it comes to a good night stay at a hotel. It provided warmth, big beds, a stylish room and of course fantastic hospitality from all of its staff members. While I was there I got to speak to their fantastic press rep Amy Mierzwinski who told me a little more about the history behind Affinia 50 and where they see themselves going in the near future. Take a look!
How long has the Affinia 50 been up for?
Affinia 50 opened in October 2004 after a $12-million renovation as an executive club suite hotel. In December 2013, the hotel unveiled its latest $19 million, top-to-bottom redesign, encompassing all guest rooms and suites, as well as all public spaces, including the lobby, popular second floor Club Room and corridors. The first renovation for the property in ten years,
Style wise it is very eclectic. Where did you draw inspiration for its colorful designs?
Affinia 50’s transformation, pays homage to its surroundings; capturing the energy and evolution of the neighborhood, while blending the comforts of home. The boutique hotel’s overall design offers more of an open layout, created to reflect a chic, city-smart space.
Affinia 50 is an artfully residential hotel that captures the spirit of the Midtown neighborhood and energy of New York City in its atmosphere with a collection of local artwork and eclectic treasures found throughout the city. Re-imagined by celebrated architect Nobutaka Ashihara and international interior design firm Dawson Design Associates, the property’s approachable yet modern environment is achieved through textures, rich woods and classic lines – all of which underlies the Affinia 50 boutique hotel experience.
There seem to be a variety of rooms for your customers. Can you tell me a little bit about each?
The renovation expanded the hotel’s inventory with 41 additional rooms for a total of 251 guestrooms, including 100 rooms with kitchens and 19 with private terraces with Manhattan skyline views. The oversized guest rooms are approachable and carefully designed with flexibility to meet the needs and requirements for all guests – whether for the business or leisure traveler. Guest rooms offer wireless high-speed Internet, cable TV with web browser, in-room safe (laptop compatible), dry cleaning / laundry services, signature Affinia Beds, choice of Affinia Dream Pillows and bath amenities by Comfort Zone, the exclusive Italian skincare line.
Following is a breakdown of each category:
Guest Room
Sleeping area with one or two beds and living space with coffee maker. The expansive Guestroom Deluxe includes a pullout sofa for extra room. Can accommodate up to three people (325–400 sq. ft.).
Studio
Oversized Guest Room with living space and one or two-bed sleeping area; all have full kitchenettes. Can accommodate up to three people (433 sq. ft.).
Junior Suite
Extra-spacious suite with one or two beds, living space with sofabed; fully appointed kitchenette. Can accommodate up to four people (507 sq. ft.).
One-Bedroom Suite
Comfortable living space with sofabed, dining area and separate bedroom with one king or two queen beds; fully appointed kitchenette. Can accommodate up to six people (790 sq. ft.). Connect two suites for up to 1,580 sq. ft. of space.
Terrace Suite
Comfortable living space with sofabed, dining area and separate bedroom with 1 king or two queens beds; fully appointed kitchenette and private terrace with views of Midtown and the East River. Can accommodate up to six people.
Hotels in New York City tend to be expensive, are your rooms affordable for the masses?
Yes, our rates are competitive. Our guests find a real value in the sizes of our guestrooms and suites and the added bonus of having kitchens in many of our rooms. It’s a great way to experience the excitement of New York City while still having the comforts of home.
What are you hopeful for Affinia 50 in 2014 and beyond?
As part of the new overall direction for the NYC hotel, we look forward to forging more strategic partnerships that will enhance our guest’s experience. Recently, Affinia 50 launched a collaboration with FreshDirect, offering guests ready-to-make meals delivered to the hotel; NakedWines.com, an online community that supports independent winemakers, to host the hotel’s nightly wine hour, and Love Grace, an organic juice cleanse brand offering guests the choice of a one- or three-day customized juice cleanse.
For the modern profession, the hotel wants to continue offering services to suit their needs. The new Cupboard features food and beverages, and other convenience items for the professional on-the-go. Then after a long day of meetings, guests can relax in the Club Room with a complimentary glass of wine or a signature cocktail. They can also benefit from late check-out, access to our state-of-the-art fitness center and complimentary WiFi when they book the Keep It Professional package.
Want to know more about Affinia 50 and their other great line of hotels? Check out the official website for more information!