Architect Gene Kaufman to complete Hotel Chelsea renovation

The Hotel Chelsea will be receiving an extensive, but subtle, renovation, according to project architect Gene Kaufman. It will get new retail space, an expanded lobby and possibly another restaurant as part of a major upgrade planned by new owner Joseph Chetrit.

The famous hotel will keep its bohemian charm, Kaufman told the Journal. “It will be more like a restoration,” he said.
Developer Chetrit signed on to purchase Hotel Chelsea for more than $80 million earlier this year. Some residents had feared that a new owner might convert it into condominiums.

The renovation of the hotels exterior is limited by its landmark status. But the interior of the building, which is in poor condition, is not affected by that status. Built in the 1880s, the West 23rd Street building has never had a comprehensive renovation.

Nearly 100 long-term tenants remain at the building, which has long been known for a liberal rent-collection policy. Most tenants have indicated they intend to continue renting at Hotel Chelsea, the Journal said. [WSJ]