The Jumeirah Essex House is one of New York’s most distinguished hotels. Upon opening its doors in 1931 it established a grand, austere identity that became a benchmark for the city. Having recently received a $90 million refurbishment Breaking Travel News pays a visit to Manhattan’s premier landmark hotel.

Standing proudly over the South entrance to Central Park, the building’s Art Deco design continues to dominate the skyline of one of the world’s busiest cities. As part of The National Trust of Historic Hotels of America it was imperative that The Jumeirah Essex House pay homage to the hotel’s architectural heritage, and this they have done with grace and panache.

By renovating the hotel’s renowned interior, Jumeirah, in conjunction with Atlanta-based design firm Hirsh Bedner Associates, have brought each of the 509 luxury guest rooms up to a modern standard.

(Fine dining at The Jumeirah Essex House)

Design features include high definition, interactive TV systems and touch sensitive environmental controls, seamlessly integrating 21st century technology with the charm of original Art Deco motifs.

Since February 2008 The Jumeirah Essex House has been offering more to New York than luxury accommodation. Entering the stand-alone South Gate restaurant, completed by designer Tony Chi, one is instantly aware of a King-sized fireplace, the largest in Manhattan.

Light from a gigantic skylight, as well as intimate views of Central Park, energise the space. As the seasons unfold in Central Park celebrated chef Kerry Heffernan takes inspiration, offering his diners a unique, vibrant selection of Modern American cuisine.

(The Jumeirah Essex House has undergone an extensive renovation, including the refurbishment of all 509 luxury bedrooms)

In line with other Jumeirah properties The Essex House offers one of the most luxurious health club and spa facilities in its class, pampering its guests in the tradition The Jumeirah Group has become famous for.

It’s clear that visitors to New York can still rely on The Jumeirah Essex House for the clearest mix of style, history and luxury on the North American East Coast. Essential tourism tips, traditionally accessed via cumbersome city guide books and unwieldy maps have now moved onto the mobile internet.

(Understated elegance is a hallmark of The Jumeirah Essex House)

Presented in conjunction with CentralPark.com, The Jumeirah Essex House has embraced new technologies, offering podcast guided tours of Central Park to all their guests. More information on The Jumeirah Essex House, along with detailed guides to New York City, can also be found at nyc.mobi. Accessible via 3G phones nyc.mobi is the perfect accompaniment whilst strolling through Central Park or Downtown Manhattan.