Set among the high-end boutiques and art galleries in New York’s bustling SoHo district, ModernHaus SoHo has established itself as an urban sanctuary for creatives. This is the place to stay for art lovers.
Inspired by the Bauhaus German art and design movement, the hotel is pared-back yet stylish with a focus on clean lines and geometric harmony. Perhaps the biggest draw is the property’s expansive art collection; paintings from the likes of George Condo and Jean Dubuffet adorn the walls.
Up on the 16th floor, the Gallery Penthouse is the best setting to take in the stunning views across the East River and Manhattan Bridge. More akin to a luxurious apartment than any ordinary hotel room, the penthouse boasts a sprawling living/ dining area and light-filled bathroom complete with a freestanding soaking tub.
ModernHaus SoHo welcomed its first guests in 2021 amid the global pandemic, but this hasn’t stopped the hotel from making its mark in New York. We spoke to the director of Thor Equities Group, Jack J. Sitt, about capturing the creative spirit of SoHo to launch the art-focused boutique.
[See also: Elite Traveler’s Top 100 Suites]
Tell us a bit about your role at the hotel and your day-to-day work.
At ModernHaus SoHo I have a hand in almost every aspect of the day-to-day operations and campaign development. From the property’s coffee selection to the staff uniforms and art collection, I ensure our vision is properly executed in a cohesive and thoughtful way throughout the hotel.
Tell us about a defining moment in your role that sticks out in your mind.
As the first-ever hospitality brand by Thor Equities Group, launching ModernHaus SoHo was not only a defining moment for the company but also for my personal career. Having the opportunity to feature select pieces from my personal art collection throughout the hotel and getting to see its success within almost two years of opening has been incredibly rewarding for me.
What can guests expect from a typical experience at the hotel?
Our goal with ModernHaus SoHo was to create a gathering point and creative hub for New Yorkers and visitors alike. Guests can expect to have one of the liveliest destinations in NYC at their fingertips, but also a comfortable and elevated home base to unwind. From unparalleled service to panoramic views of the city, guests will leave feeling inspired and refreshed.
What sets ModernHaus SoHo apart from its competitors?
A true art hotel, inspired by the Bauhaus art movement, ModernHaus SoHo boasts an extremely impressive art collection including dozens of paintings and sculptures from the likes of Hans Hartung, George Condo, Harland Miller, Jean Dubuffet, Hans Hofmann, Nicolas Party, and Kaws. The property is also unique in its exterior footprint with more outdoor space than any other hotel in downtown Manhattan, providing a rare urban escape in the middle of the city.
The hospitality industry has been through significant challenges in the last few years. How has the resort coped with and adapted to those challenges?
ModernHaus SoHo was born during the pandemic, so these challenges were top of mind from the get-go. The property is home to 11,000 square feet of outdoor space, so we are uniquely positioned to offer open-air social distancing throughout our dining and event spaces. From masks available in every room to spacious amenities and in-room dining, we’re continuing to prioritize our guests’ health and safety.
Other than the pandemic, what has been the biggest challenge in your role?
I’d say the biggest challenge was finding the perfect balance of a minimal yet contemporary design that would compel guests to want to stay with us. With so many different and unique hotels in the city, finding our overall vision was a challenge but ultimately in the end was one of our greatest successes.
The Gallery Penthouse Suite features in this year’s Top Suites. What makes the suite so special?
The crown jewel of the property is the Gallery Penthouse. Located on the 16th floor with stunning views of the Manhattan Bridge and the Freedom Tower, this space is truly one of a kind. At 1,300 square feet, the penthouse features a separate living room and dining room that can be used for more than just sleeping, it’s the perfect venue for special occasions. Designed by Melissa Bowers and myself, we worked hand in hand to create a minimalist feel that naturally ties into its urban environment.
[See also: Fascinating Art Hotels Around the World]
