The InterContinental New York Barclay has closed to begin a $175 million renovation.

The hotel recently checked out its last guest in preparation for the 18-month refurbishment, which will revitalise the landmark property into the Midtown East luxury hotel of choice for elite travellers.

“We are delighted to work with our partners, Constellation Barclay Holding, to manage the extensive renovation of our classic New York hotel,” said Hervé Houdré, regional director of operations and general manager of the InterContinental New York Barclay hotel.

“The result will be the rebirth of a luxury hotel that reflects its elegance and architectural grandeur, as well as the classic taste and style of its sophisticated, international neighbourhood.”   

First opened in 1926, the hotel is located right in the heart of Manhattan and a short walk from Park Avenue, Madison Avenue and the United Nations building.

The iconic InterContinental New York Barclay has been the hotel of choice, and sometimes residence, for politicians, cultural influencers and other prominent figures throughout the decades, including US presidents, author Ernest Hemingway, ambassador and renowned hostess Perle Mesta, and civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The hotel’s new design ‒ developed with the assistance of architecture firm Stonehill + Taylor and interior designers HOK ‒ will completely revitalise the Federalist-style property, maintaining its heritage, while updating it to cater to the needs of today’s discerning international traveller.

The design will reflect the distinctive culture of its location, while offering the luxury and consistency that InterContinental guests worldwide expect from their preferred brand.

On completion, the property will feature approximately 700 guestrooms, a new InterContinental Club Lounge and a fully refurbished lobby with a new Gin bar and restaurant.

The hotel also will continue to serve as an outstanding venue for memorable corporate meetings through the InterContinental Meetings platform, as well as for social events in either of the two elegant ballrooms.