East meets West as Aman New York opens

Posted in News on 9 August, 2022

Aman New York opened its doors for the first time on 2 August. Jean-Michel Gathy, the creative force behind some of the world’s most iconic luxury hotel and resort designs, was commissioned to design America’s first urban Aman Resort, in the iconic Crown Building.

Aiming to bring the harmonious ethos of Aman to the heart of one of the most bustling metropolises in the world, Gathy said he designed the hotel with the New York lifestyle in mind – an interactive place in an extraordinary location where East meets West.

Aman New York. Above: Premier Suite. Top: Aman Suite.

Jean-Michel Gathy

His signature style is evident, particularly in the Asian characteristic of ‘layering’ of areas and lighting, while using western materials.

The opening marks the culmination of a monumental transformation of the Crown Building in Manhattan, a 100-year-old Beaux-Arts property that has undergone a remarkable restoration and transcendent design. Situated on the corner of 57th Street and Fifth Avenue, the building’s original architectural splendour has been blended with Aman’s design spirit to transport guests away from the frenetic pace of the city.

The hotel will have 83-suites and 22 branded residences, and its suites are among New York’s largest. Inspired by the airy architecture of Aman’s properties in Southeast Asia, pairs of bespoke double-pivot doors have been created to form bespoke central partitions allowing guests to transform the atmosphere by creating a lofty open-plan layout or intimate private spaces.

Every suite has a functioning fireplace and bathrooms are opulent with oval bathtubs, marble rain showers and double vanities. Large windows provide dynamic views, and the use of organic, natural materials brings a sense of balance and harmony reminiscent of Aman resorts of the East.