The NoMad Hotel in Midtown Manhattan recently opened a new two-level bar, designed by Stonehill & Taylor in collaboration with owner Sydell Group. The bar is accessed through an entrance from within the hotel’s Elephant Bar as well its own street entrance located on 28th between Broadway and 5th Avenue. The NoMad bar was established by the group behind some of New York’s most notable food establishments, including Eleven Madison Park and The NoMad Restaurant.
When purchased, the façade was almost unrecognizable from its original, late 19th century design. The new exterior reverses time on the building, honoring its history in the delicate restoration. A wood-paneled façade creates a welcoming feel. A bay window taken from the building’s original design is reintroduced, exposing the space’s mezzanine level to the street.
The interior design of the space draws influences from the The NoMad Hotel’s French-inspired interiors. Subtle nods to the hotel include the use of marble mosaic floors, rich textures, a deeply warm color palette, and Persian rugs. Guests enter the bar through a corridor lined with glass. Peek-a-boo openings offer glimpses of the action within. A serpentine drink rail, illuminated with light sconces, faces expansive windows overlooking 28th street.
The main bar rises up 20 feet, featuring a large arch backed by antique mirror and flanked by custom millwork. The copper and wood bar counter, herringbone wood flooring, and wood paneled ceiling and walls—almost entirely in mahogany—envelope the space. Green accents are used on banquettes to create a pop of color, contrasting against an otherwise dark palette.
The mezzanine level, with tables overlooking the bar, allows for an intimate setting where guests can easily see and be seen.
The artwork was inspired by The NoMad Hotel’s neighborhood. All the photography was captured by a local photographer, MacKenzie Rollins, within two blocks of the neighborhood. A gallery-like hallway exhibiting her works lead to intricately designed bathrooms. There, sitting on industrial piping, trough sinks are hand carved out of verde marble, alongside tiles and sconces.
The casual menu, which draws inspiration from traditional pub fare, is rooted in the style and foundation of The NoMad and Eleven Madison Park. Bar Director Leo Robitschek has created a beverage program that celebrates classically-focused cocktails, while delving into two new arenas: festive, large-format drinks and a selection of reserve cocktails crafted with rare spirits.
