As the first Monday in May approaches, New York City’s air fills with anticipation for the biggest fashion event of the year; the Met Gala. Known for its breathtaking fashion, headline-making moments and the gathering of celebrities, designers, politicians, fashion icons, royalty, and industry titans from around the world.
What started as a local New York social event has transformed into a dazzling spectacle of glamour and artistic expression. Each year’s theme reflects the Costume Institute’s latest exhibition. The 2024 theme ‘Sleeping Beauties – Reawakening Fashion’ promises an enchanting fusion of fairytale fantasy with avant-garde futurism.
Affectionately known as ‘fashion’s biggest night out’, the Gala is more than its glitzy facade; it is also a vital fundraising event, with millions raised each year to support the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s (the Met) Costume Institute.
Amidst the opulence and flashes of paparazzi, one hotel stands out as the ultimate haven for the stars: The Mark Hotel. Just steps away from the Met (so close, one year Kim Kardashian decided to walk!) The Mark is the choice hotel for the Gala’s most celebrated attendees to debut their fabulous looks.
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The Mark Hotel
The Mark is not just a hotel; it’s a deeply integrated part of the community. Designed with the discerning taste of New Yorkers, The Mark reflects the city’s sophisticated style and contributes to its vibrant cultural fabric, making every guest feel a part of this dynamic community.
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Initially built in 1927, The Mark was reimagined by celebrated French interior designer Jacques Grange in 2009. His vision brought to life an aura of refined French style while embracing the comforts of contemporary American living.
The striking black and white-striped marble flooring and classic art deco architecture are complemented by unique furnishings and artwork commissioned by international artisans such as Karl Lagerfeld and Mattia Bonetti. The hotel’s design, envisioned not by a traditional hotel designer, focuses on creating a true sense of belonging and luxury. This thoughtful approach resonates deeply with guests, many of whom repeatedly return, drawn by the sophisticated yet homely atmosphere.
Stay
Each of the 106 rooms and 46 suites is the definition of tranquility and tasteful luxury, featuring a calming color palette that combines textured cream walls, pale cabinetry accented with dark wood trim and pear-green satin curtains. Every room is bathed in abundant natural light – something The Mark has ensured by buying most of the city block to ensure no new builds could obstruct this.
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The accommodation at The Mark is unmatched, particularly when it comes to suites. While other luxury New York hotels may offer a handful of two-bedroom suites, The Mark proudly features two exceptional five-bedroom suites, a true rarity in the city.
In fact, every room at The Mark is nearly 25% bigger than other prominent hotels – dare we say, that makes it great value. During the Met Gala, The Mark’s larger suites are bustling with last-minute preparations. Often hosting fashion designers and their muses, the suites are the ideal setting for pre-event preparations.
Even after the red carpet winds down, the focus shifts back to The Mark for afterparties and continued celebrations. The Mark is renowned for hosting some of the most iconic afterparties in the city. Last year, in a collaboration with Versace, The Mark’s restaurant by Jean-Georges was the venue of choice for exclusive guests, including Madonna, Donatella, and even Anna Wintour herself.
The Penthouse
The crown jewel of The Mark is its sprawling Penthouse Suite, famed as one of the most expensive suites in North America at $75,000 per night and $175,000 during the holiday season, it spans over 12,000 sq ft. Perched atop the city, this sanctuary offers unparalleled views of Central Park and the iconic Manhattan skyline. It boasts luxurious amenities such as five bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a grand ballroom, a private library, and a sprawling 2,500-sq-ft terrace. Every detail in this suite, from the handpicked furnishings to the curated artwork, is meticulously designed to provide an unparalleled experience of luxury and comfort.
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Dine
The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges offers a mix of classic and innovative dishes. A favorite among both locals and visitors, it serves a range of European signatures accented by seasonal features. The sun-lit atrium and cozy elegance of the lounge provide a fabulous Upper East Side dining experience. For a more intimate setting, The Mark Bar is an ideal spot for enjoying a cocktail or two.
Adding to its impressive dining repertoire, The Mark hosts Caviar Kaspia, bringing the quintessence of Parisian luxury to Manhattan. This room exudes a charming old-world elegance, featuring lush emerald-green banquettes and a dramatic black Belgian-marble bar top. Guests can indulge in a lavish menu highlighting an assortment of caviars complemented by traditional accompaniments like the iconic twice-baked potato topped with caviar, a truly indulgent dining experience.
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Explore
From the extraordinary offerings, such as The Mark Sailboat, available for private excursions around Manhattan, to 24-hour access to Bergdorf Goodman tailoring and personalized shopping, The Mark’s services are meticulously designed to meet every whim and more.
The Mark’s ability to innovate and surprise its guests is evident from its unique offerings, such as The Mark Chalet, a Swiss chalet-inspired pop-up that garnered an astounding 4,500 reservations within 24 hours.
The hotel’s amenities are not just about pampering but about creating lasting impressions, everything from a bespoke hot-dog stand to a flower cart adds a touch of whimsy to the luxurious atmosphere. The Mark Hotel not only meets the high expectations of its guests but consistently exceeds them, offering a level of service and luxury that is unparalleled.
The Penthouse Suite from $75,000 per night; Contact +1 212 744 4300,
