A historic clock tower set on Madison Avenue in Midtown Manhattan’s Flatiron District, The New York EDITION is the elite spot from which to explore the city that never sleeps. Designed by Ian Schrager, the hotel blends luxury and comfort to give visitors a unique residential experience in one of New York City’s most exclusive neighborhoods.
To celebrate its partnership with Elite Traveler’s Top Suites, we speak to the hotel’s general manager, Elizabeth Faler.
What attracted you to your position at the hotel?
There is no brand like EDITION. With much of my experience in traditional luxury brands like The Ritz-Carlton, I was enticed to explore a new kind of luxury at The New York EDITION. The brand holds an authentic focus on the modern luxury traveler, with lifestyle elements that give EDITION its unique distinction. Luxury service is at the core of EDITION, and I was drawn to the opportunity to lead and inspire a team dedicated to gracious, sophisticated, and personalized service.
What also attracted me to The New York EDITION is what appeals to our guests and locals alike – its unparalleled location in NYC. The Flatiron District has been recognized as Manhattan’s new epicenter with unmatched growth potential. As a local resident myself, I love spending afternoons in Madison Square Park with my husband and French bulldog, Arthur.
Tell us about a defining moment in your role that sticks out.
My first experience working with the EDITION brand was as a property trainer for The Abu Dhabi EDITION when I was still on The Ritz-Carlton team. I was exposed to the EDITION brand’s focus on personalized service, which creates a unique culture that encourages its employees to be authentically themselves. In this defining moment, I felt that I had discovered a luxury brand where my individuality was valued. I felt that I could express myself more freely and that I had the agency to add something extra special to my leadership style. After this, I joined the EDITION team at the first opportunity and realized that this ethos is truly enlivened across the brand portfolio. We feel it across our day-to-day interactions behind the scenes, and it adds to the enchantment of our guests around the globe.
And what has been the hotel’s biggest challenge during your time there?
Like so many, it is hard to imagine a more challenging obstacle than the standstill that NYC experienced in 2020. Reawakening the hotel after it had been closed for a year, rebuilding our team and restoring our operations in an uncertain global climate was a challenging task. When I look around at the team that we have been able to grow and the successes that we have been able to achieve together, I am honored and profoundly grateful.
What separates the Penthouse Suites from anything else in the city?
Design and location are two key components that give our hotel and its Penthouses their unique brilliance. In design, the hotel is the landmarked clocktower building that was reimagined and converted into the boutique luxury style of Ian Schrager. The interior finishes evoke the feeling of a sophisticated modern residence. The Penthouse’s footprint equals the entire west half of the floor it is on, providing 180-degree views of the city through its expansive windows. The suite has a separate bedroom, kitchenette, dining room, living room, and 1.5 bathrooms, making it ideal for hosted events, extended stays, or just an indulgent night or two.
For location, the hotel sits across the street from Madison Square Park, granting unobstructed views that will never become blocked – a rarity in ever-evolving NYC. Guests have a full view of the Empire State Building from their bedroom, and the living and dining rooms benefit from stunning sunsets over the Hudson River. Its Flatiron District neighborhood is a local favorite in NYC. It is central to the best dining, nightlife, museums and green space in Manhattan. Not to mention, the hotel’s service is exceptional.
What exciting plans do you have for the hotel that you can share with our readers?
Our Flatiron neighborhood just keeps getting better. The hotel’s neighboring building has been undergoing enhancements that have just been completed. One Madison Avenue will feature unprecedented retail, wellness and hospitality-focused amenities, as well as a full spectrum of dining options by Daniel Boulud. The Flatiron District is already a gem, but the completion of this project will inject the neighborhood with a renewed vibrance from the new luxury retailers at our doorstep.
