Venerable New York Skyscraper Transforms into Exquisite Luxury Hotel Featuring a Majestic Nine-Story Skylight, Gourmet Meals by Celebrity Chefs, and Appeal of a Gilded Era Ambiance
Nestled in the Financial District of New York City, The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural grandeur. Originally built in 1883, this nine-story skyscraper, known as the Temple Court Building, is one of Manhattan's oldest surviving structures of its kind[1][2][3].
Initially commissioned by Irish-American banker Eugene Kelly and designed by architects Silliman & Farnsworth, the building was one of the first skyscrapers in Manhattan and the city's first fireproof office building[3]. Its impressive height and innovative design were a sight to behold during a time when such structures were rare.
The building's architectural beauty is evident in its stunning nine-story Victorian atrium, crowned by a large pyramidal skylight, ornate cast-iron railings, and mosaic-tiled walkways. These features evoke the grandeur of the Gilded Age, transporting visitors back to a time of opulence and elegance[1][2][3].
Historically, the building was known as the Kelly Building and later as the Temple Court Building, due to its attraction of law firms, which inspired the name "Temple Court," reminiscent of London's legal district[3]. The building also has cultural roots, as it once hosted the Chapel Street Theatre, where New York's first performance of Shakespeare's Hamlet was held in 1761, and Clinton Hall, associated with Edgar Allan Poe[3].
In 2016, after a painstaking restoration, the Temple Court Building reopened as The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel, offering a blend of historic charm and modern luxury[2][3][4][5]. The hotel boasts high-end amenities, including three restaurants by renowned chefs Tom Colicchio and Keith McNally, and is located near iconic sites like the Brooklyn Bridge and One World Observatory, making it popular for both leisure and business travelers[2][3][4][5].
The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel is more than just a luxury hotel; it offers guests a unique opportunity to walk through New York history while enjoying a cocktail under a 19th-century skylight[2]. Its status as a luxury hotel on the 2023 Condé Nast Traveller Gold List underscores its significance as a destination that honors its past while catering to modern guests[1][4].
The hotel's rooms blend historic details with modern comfort, providing guests with a comfortable and stylish stay[5]. The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel has also earned accolades for its impressive design and guest experience, including Travel + Leisure's World's Best Hotels, Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards, and U.S. News & World Report's Best Hotels in New York[1][4].
In 2024, the breathtaking nine-story trio at The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel was officially designated as an interior landmark by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission[2]. This recognition highlights the hotel's importance in preserving a rare Victorian-era interior atrium within a skyscraper, offering guests a one-of-a-kind experience that blends New York history with contemporary hospitality.
Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a luxurious getaway, The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel offers an unparalleled experience in the heart of New York City.
References:
- The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel
- The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel: A Historic Landmark in New York City
- The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel: A Brief History
- The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel: A Luxury Stay in New York City
- The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel: A Perfect Combination of Past and Present
