Sometimes things come best in a set of three. TLC, Bacon Lettuce & Tomato, and of course those guy triplets that make you giddy whenever you see them (hehe). Another shining example is the Library Hotel Collection, which has allowed me the privilege to stay in three of their four wonderful hotels (Casablanca Hotel Soon!). The first was The Library Hotel two weeks ago, followed by The Hotel Elysee last week, and finally I had the amazing experience by rounding it out with their last hotel, Hotel Giraffe.
Of all the hotels that I stayed in with the collection, this one happened to be the most current and modern just by way of design, architecture, and sophistication that it brought throughout. Whereas Elysee was more “Old New York” and Library felt like a “Posh Reading & Sleeping Experience”, Hotel Giraffe was a more modern take on the three. Located in the heart of Gramercy, which is now known by NoMad, I truly got to experience what a fantastic place this was. I loved how the room was designed, and it featured splashes of red (my favorite color) throughout. The bed itself was super comfy as well as the other amenities in the room such as the big couch, the beautifully designed bathroom, and beyond anything the lovely hospitality to which I was treated.
During my stay I sat down with Director of Sales & Marketing Ashley Van Goehring about how Hotel Giraffe started and what it has going on for the hot summer months. Take a look.
When was the Hotel Giraffe founded?
Hotel Giraffe opened its doors to the public in December, 1999. This December marks our 15th birthday.
What does your hotel pride itself upon?
Like each property in the Library Hotel Collection, Hotel Giraffe prides itself on our excellent customer service and our ability to create a unique and exciting experience for our guests. From the minute you are greeted at the front door, we want you to feel like you’re at your ‘home away from home’. We were so proud to receive a 2014 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor because it really reinforces how important the guest experience is for people visiting New York City!
I got a very modern, sleek type feel when I stayed there. Is this what guests should expect upon their stay?
The style and architecture of the hotel is inspired by the Art Moderne period, so there is absolutely a sophisticated grace in the lobby, rooftop and guestrooms. I personally find that though our style exudes that subtle sophistication, it’s the warmth of the hotel that bring people back!
You are located right in the heart of the NoMad district. What restaurants or places do you recommend your guest see when they stay at Giraffe?
We are delighted to be a part of such a vibrant neighborhood, which is now commonly referred to as NoMad. We always recommend the rustic-Italian inspired Bread & Tulips, located in Hotel Giraffe. Guests of the hotel receive a 20% discount when dining in the restaurant! And because we’re in the warmer months of the year, we are happy to boast about the Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Giraffe, located on our 12th floor. It has become quite a popular neighborhood destination for cocktails and appetizers! Of course, we are also so fortunate to be located near the famous Shake Shack in Madison Square Park!
What are some of the awesome amenities that your hotel provides?
We proudly offer Library Hotel Collection’s Signature Guest Amenities:
Continental style breakfast buffet in the Grand Lobby
Selection of coffee, tea, juices, cookies, and fruits throughout the day
Wine & cheese reception evenings from 5pm-8pm
Wireless high speed Internet access
Evening turndown service
Passes to nearby New York Sports Club
Is this the only Hotel Giraffe in the world or are there more?
There are no other Hotel Giraffe’s in the world, but we are happy that our LHC family is expanding! The Aria Hotel Prague which we launched 10 years ago has rejoined our collection and are excited to open the Aria Hotel Budapest in late 2014. We are also going to be opening Hotel X Toronto in Canada in 2015, it’s a wonderful time to be a part of this collection
Do your rooms have particular themes like some others in the Library Hotel Collections?
Though our rooms are not individually themed, in each room our guests will absolutely enjoy a relaxed atmosphere featuring captivating photography. And if you look closely, from the room number plagues to the copy of Tall Blondes located in each room, you’ll find quite a few subtle hints of giraffe!
What else can you tell my readers about your fabulous hotel?
We are currently offering a quirky and romantic Summer package, Summer Fling! Upon arrival, guests who reserve this package receive 2 express tickets to the Empire State Building, a $20 gift certificate to Shake Shack and voucher good for 2 complimentary cocktails on our Rooftop Lounge. This special is available through August on our direct website, www.hotelgiraffe.com.
The Hotel Giraffe
365 Park Avenue South
212-685-7700