To call The Manner happening would be an understatement. Since its opening less than a year ago, the hotel has become one of the hottest spots in Manhattan.
Located on tree-lined Thompson Street in the heart of SoHo, The Manner is a new concept from Standard International, the company behind the famous Standard chain that was recently acquired by Hyatt Hotels.If you like a scene, The Manner is the place for you. The day I checked in, the likes of Dakota Johnson, Salma Hayek and Baz Luhrmann attended an evening event hosted by photographer Mert Alaş in the hotel’s penthouse apartment.
The Apartment is a lovely private lounge only open to hotel guests. Photo: Handout
Its buzzy rooftop bar, with sweeping views of downtown Manhattan and beyond, attracts a crowd all day long. However, hotel guests can find refuge in The Apartment, a private lounge exclusive to them where they can enjoy free refreshments. “Think of it as your stylish living room in SoHo,” the hotel’s welcome kit puts it.
Design buffs are in for a treat – the interiors are not for those who prefer surroundings that are minimalistic and clinical. Milan-based Hannes Peer mixed rich reds and browns with dark blues, and used materials such as velvet to give the space a cosy feel. Accents from gold light fixtures to custom chandeliers add a touch of whimsical opulence.
The fun vibe of the premises extends to the service, which is efficient and friendly, and makes you feel like you’re staying at the home of a dear friend.
Deep colours dominate the design of the rooms. Photo: HandoutThe 97 rooms and suites, which are intentionally without TV sets, range from comfortable king rooms to studio suites with expansive living areas. There’s also the aforementioned two-level penthouse, whose bold look is inspired by 1970s designer Halston’s famous headquarters in New York’s Olympic Tower.
While you have plenty of eateries right on your doorstep, The Manner has you covered with seafood restaurant The Otter, which offers alfresco dining and great people watching from the buzzy sidewalk, and Sloane’s, a cocktail lounge that comes alive at night and is more discreet than the rooftop bar.