The Lowell

Profile

“Residential” may be a popular hotel-design buzzword, but few properties really take the word to heart the way the Lowell does. Just ask the legion of regulars who actually do live here for extended periods, from those with long-term corporate gigs and local residents with apartments under construction to monthly visitors using this as their NYC pied-à-terre. Tucked among a row of townhouses on a quiet Upper East Side street, in a former 1920s “apartment hotel,” the family-owned Lowell appeals to these guests — as well as its short-term (and many high-profile) visitors — with its classic European sensibility, discreet service, and comfortable, oversize accommodations, which include 47 suites, 27 deluxe rooms, and one two-bedroom penthouse. All rooms have up-to-date technology, plush furnishing, and custom DDC28 bath amenities; most have appliance-stocked kitchens/kitchenettes and working wood-burning fireplaces (watch out for the fee to have the latter lit, though); and a few, such as the garden suite, also feature outdoor spaces. Lined with bookshelves, artwork, windows, and a complimentary healthy snack station, the decent-size gym also feels homey (passes to Equinox and SoulCycle are also available), while a small-business center caters to any work needs. Pets of all sizes are welcome for a $200 nonrefundable fee (you’ll see about as many canine regulars here as humans), and the staff foster a real rapport with guests, whether organizing unique experiences like private yoga in Central Park or — as one longtime employee does — making homemade jam for breakfast and afternoon tea in the Pembroke Room (which also offers a popular pre-theater menu). In 2017, the entire ground floor — including the lobby, Jacques Bar and Club Room lounge (both serving drinks and light bites), and restaurateur Charles Masson’s gourmet Majorelle restaurant — were redesigned under the direction of owner Dina De Luca Chartouni, London-based architect Mark Pinney (who has envisioned stores for Armani, Apple, and Harrods), and interior designer Michael S. Smith (who’s worked on the White House). Chic and intimate, the spaces have become a hit with locals, many of whom dine here multiple times a week — creating an even more “residential” feels for hotel guests. — Sandra Ramani

The location on the Upper East Side, removed from touristy New York, allows for a comfortable at-home feeling.

Cons
If you’re a regular they’ll roll out the red carpet. Newcomers, get ready to see some nose hairs.

Claim to Fame
Madonna lived here for nine months. When she requested that her suite be converted into a gym, they did it!