Waldorf Astoria New York enters 2nd phase of renovation

NEW YORK — Anbang Insurance Group on Tuesday announced the second phase of the restoration efforts at the Waldorf Astoria New York hotel.

AECOM, a global infrastructure firm, has been engaged through its Tishman business to oversee the construction to preserve and transform the property, New York City's largest private interior landmark, located at 301 Park Avenue in Manhattan.

AECOM Tishman served as the construction manager of record for the building's initial demolition and pre-construction phase, which began in November 2017 in preparation for new construction within the legendary hotel.

AECOM Tishman's ongoing work includes construction throughout the building's hotel and residential components, targeting completion in 2021. The property's on-site residential sales office is also under construction at the corner of Park Avenue and 50th Street, in anticipation of the start of condominium sales next year.

Anbang, based in Beijing, has engaged the expertise of consultants to oversee the preservation of several iconic Waldorf Astoria items, including the Cole Porter piano, the World's Fair Clock Tower, the Kennedy Rocking Chair and the MacArthur Desk.

"The Anbang team is incredibly proud of the tremendous work accomplished so far at Waldorf Astoria New York, as we now enter the next phase of the building's historic revitalization," said Andrew Miller, executive director of real estate development, Anbang International (US).

"AECOM Tishman has been an exceptional partner during initial construction, and we look forward to working alongside them to carry out one of the most extensive restoration and renovation projects in New York City's history," he said. "Anbang understands the magnitude and responsibility of this project and remains committed to delivering an exceptional property befitting of the Waldorf Astoria name."

"Waldorf Astoria New York will set a new standard for luxury and serve as the flagship property for the Waldorf Astoria brand," said Dino Michael, global brand head, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. "Our anticipation and excitement continue to build as we work closely with Anbang and design teams on the renovation."

Upon completion, Waldorf Astoria New York will offer approximately 350 residential condominiums, about 350 new hotel rooms and suites and renovated public and event spaces for guests.

The entry-level room category for the Waldorf Astoria New York hotel will be 650 square feet on average. Architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill is the executive architect for the project, and interior designer Pierre Yves Rochon is designing the hotel's interiors and guest rooms.

"Anbang has imagined something truly spectacular for this global icon, and we look forward to delivering their vision," said Jay Badame, president of AECOM's building construction business. "The city's East Side is about to embark on a significant transformation, and this project is leading the way in redefining Midtown East."

Waldorf Astoria New York was often the site of some of history's most talked-about social and geopolitical events, including The Paris Ball, International Debutante Ball, the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, political meetings during the Cold War and the hosting of numerous world leaders and celebrity guests.