GKA-designed Hampton Inn to open at 32 Pearl Street

A new Hampton Inn hotel, designed by Gene Kaufman Architect (GKA), is set to make its debut at 32 Pearl St. in the Financial District. Like many buildings downtown, the hotel suffered damage during Hurricane Sandy, but following a restoration it is ready to welcome guests. GKA converted the existing Art Deco-era structure into an 81-room hotel, with a new lobby designed by GKA's interiors group, transforming the building into a hospitality destination while retaining its old New York charm. "32 Pearl St. had been through a number of transitions throughout its history," said Gene Kaufman, founder of GKA. "We wanted to preserve its classic feel and sense of solidity and permanence while returning a number of features, like the entrance and a rooftop addition, to a look more reflective of its original design." Built in 1930, 32 Pearl St. was designed in Art Deco style as offices with a "sun parlor" on the roof. Designed by Warren & Wetmore, architects of Grand Central Station, it was one of the last buildings completed by the firm before Whitney Warren retired in 1931. The building was later converted to apartments and now is in its third life as a hotel. The original façade has been preserved maintaining its jewel-like boutique presence amongst the towers of Wall St. Located in Lower Manhattan, guests of this new Hampton Inn will enjoy proximity to Wall St., the South St. Seaport and the World Trade Memorial Site. Just steps from Battery Park, the hotel also offers a great location for visiting the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Visitors will enjoy comfortable, relaxing guestrooms featuring the hotel's signature Hampton bed as well as a range of amenities including a modern fitness center, business center and free high-speed Internet access throughout the hotel.