Noteworthy in New York: The Pierre Redux

After an 18-month hiatus, the legendary Pierre hotel reopens following a stylish and substantial transformation. The Taj group took over the 80-year-old property in 2005 and completely overhauled the landmark hotel. With a glittering new lobby and updated guest rooms, the aging hotel received a much needed glamour boost. There is even a new lounge, 2 East, in the revamped lobby and the first American outpost of London’s Le Caprice, which is slated to open in September.

Located on New York’s Fifth Avenue overlooking Central Park, the redesigned guest rooms feature luxuriously textured silk and brocade fabrics, hand-woven carpets, and tufted leather headboards. High tech amenities include an interactive 40-inch flat screen television, a Bose Wave Studio system with iPod docking station, WiFi, and a working desk with built-in data outlets. Guests will sleep serenely with newly installed sound-insulated, energy-efficient windows paired with blackout drapes to keep out the incessant NY noise.  No expense was spared on the reimagined bathrooms featuring Turkish marble, a  glass-walled shower with oversized showerhead, a soaking tub, and a flat-panel TV. The only possible deterrent to staying in these newly deluxe digs? The price. Even though rates have been reduced from previously listed $800-plus per night rates, rooms booked now through September 7 start at $537. Book here.