Dream Downtown by Hyatt, located in the heart of New York, is today one of the most unique modern urban retreats with a rich architectural heritage. We stayed at Dream Downtown during the Memorial Day weekend, when hotel staff made sure to offer memorable nightlife opportunities, and unforgettable dining experiences, and relaxing daytime by the outdoor pool.
Dream Downtown a home for 314 loft-style guest rooms and suites, each presenting a sophisticated blend of upscale amenities and a distinct architectural flair shaped by legendary architect Albert Ledner and updated by the prolific Handel Architects. From the chic contemporary design to the attentive staff, Dream Downtown is designed to ensure guests fully immerse themselves in the energy of New York City.
Continue reading for a review from DSCENE Magazine’s travel team:
Hotel Rooms and Design
Each guest room at Dream Downtown is meticulously crafted with a loft-style aesthetic, featuring spacious interiors, modern furnishings, and high-end design features matching the sentiment of the architecture connected by Handel Architects architecture and interior design team. The rooms are designed to offer true comfort amidst the NYC cityscape, providing a perfect balance of luxury and functionality. Whether you’re winding down from a day of city explorations or gearing up for a night on the town, Dream promises a serene and stylish retreat. Within the minimalist design, in its custom made bathrooms designed by Handel Architects team, the hotel also offers beauty amenities from Karl Lagerfeld fashion brand, along its custom made skyshower bathrooms. Perfect connection for it’s unique glass floor swimming pool, the one of its kind in New York.
Iconic Restaurant: Philippe Downtown
One of the jewels of Dream Downtown is Philippe Downtown, a dining venue where the interior is as inviting as the cuisine. Philippe continues the legacy of its uptown counterpart, embracing a modern aesthetic while serving up reinvented Beijing-style dishes by the renowned Executive Chef Philippe Chow. The restaurant’s interior design is both inviting and stylish, yet designed to enhance the dining experience. Signature dishes, including the Truffle Wok-Seared Sea Bass and our personal favourite the Peking Duck, are not just meals but culinary events. And to keep the night going, do not miss the best Espresso Martinis in town. Chow and his team make sure the food is served family-style to foster shared dining experiences among guests. This approach not only allows diners to discover the menu but also adds an element of culinary discovery to every meal. Whether you are a guest of the hotel, or simply visiting New York, Philippe Downtown is the hidden go-to New York experience to add to the list.
PHD Rooftop: A Sky-High Sanctuary
Located on the hotel’s 12th floor, the PHD Rooftop lounge, is framed with timeless elements such as Italian Portor marble, nickel-finished walls, and Macassar ebony, all illuminated under the glow of amber Venini glass chandeliers. The rooftop offers spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Empire State Building, providing an unforgettable backdrop for a night out on town. The space includes two full-service bars, a DJ booth, and a retractable canopy that ensures the party goes on, no matter the weather. Guests can enjoy bespoke cocktails and shareable plates, all complemented by pulsating beats and a high-energy atmosphere.
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Electric Room: An Underground Escape
Beneath the vibrant energy of Dream Downtown you can find The Electric Room, your go-to spot for late-night escapades. The space, accommodating approximately 100 guests, offers an intimate setting for those seeking a more secluded nightlife experience. Taken with British rock-inspired décor, including Union Jack upholstery and bespoke antique mirrors, the space exudes a cool, edgy vibe. The full bar features high-end spirits and specialty cocktails, perfect for toasting to a night well spent.
Dream Beach: A Unique City Oasis
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of Dream Downtown by Hyatt is Dream Beach, Manhattan’s sole glass-bottom pool. This rooftop haven transforms into a relaxing summer lounge, complete with Cote D’Azur-inspired chaises and private cabanas. Each morning the swimming pool area is available only for hotel guests from 8AM till 10AM. The bar and grill serve up an array of specialty drinks and gourmet bites, from refreshing Spa Water cocktails to hearty short rib enchiladas. Whether you’re sunbathing by the pool or enjoying a cocktail to the rhythm of curated music, Dream Beach offers a slice of summertime paradise perfectly hidden in the center of NYC.
Ideal for Dynamic Duos and Serene Solitudes
Dream Downtown is uniquely shaped to cater to diverse guest needs. It is a haven for young couples and groups seeking a dynamic getaway with direct access to some of the city’s best parties and social scenes. However, hotel staff makes sure to accommodate families with a slew of family friendly suites on the property. Simultaneously, it offers peaceful retreat spaces for those needing a quiet respite from the urban hustle. Its proximity to famed attractions like Chelsea Market—located just across the street and famed for its eclectic street food offerings—adds to its appeal, making it a top destination for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike.
Architectural Heritage at Dream Downtown
Dream Downtown stands not only as a well known boutique hotel but also as a significant piece of New York City’s architectural history. Originally designed by the renowned New Orleans-based architect Albert Ledner in 1966, the building served as an annex for the National Maritime Union of America. Its distinctive style and historical significance make it a landmark in the Chelsea neighborhood. Ledner is also known for his must see white structure in Greenwich Village that currently stands as the Lenox Health Center, also featuring his signature porthole-like windows.
In 2006, Handel Architects was commissioned to re-imagine this Ledner-designed structure, which had gone through various iterations and owners since the 1970s. The conversion involved meticulous restoration and modernization while respecting the building’s original character and architectural integrity.
Today, Dream Downtown is a textbook example of how a renovation can bring in contemporary luxury within the historical elements of a building. This thorough-block site fronts both 16th and 17th Streets, is providing expansive city views and easy access to local attractions for all of Dream Downtown guests.
The design elements initially added by the buildings creator are a nod to its maritime past, with porthole windows and curved lines that echo the waves of the sea—a homage to the building’s original purpose as a maritime union headquarters. Through its transformation, Dream Downtown has retained its historical essence while evolving into a vibrant, modern hotel that captures the spirit of New York City. It serves as a perfect example of how historical buildings can be preserved and repurposed in urban and travel industry settings, contributing to the city’s dynamic skyline while honoring its past.
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Whether you’re in New York for the nightlife, a culinary experience, or a luxurious escape, Dream Downtown offers a multifaceted experience that captures the essence of the city’s never-resting culture and the luxury of a boutique retreat. Even if you are not staying at Dream Downtown, we would recommend checking out this unique landmark, and enjoying a refreshing drink by the pool open to visitor each day.
Dream Downtown
355 W 16th Street, New York, New York, United States, 10011
+1 212 229 2559
The best outdoor parties in the summer ! I love dream downtown ❤️❤️
I absolutely love this hotel dream down town has been my favorite hotel in New York for years now the forests are so much fun everyone is relaxed at the hotel the crowd is young and I think like you are at the right place if you want to experience New York I’m sure you might be concerned what the problem because there are parties inside but like you here nothing in the rooms so you can have a good night sleep as well
Great location great place to stay i really love their pool. Visited three times already ❤️