Intercontinental New York Barclay Undergoes Extensive Renovation.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), one of the world's leading hotel companies, today announces that the InterContinental New York Barclay is now closed to commence the $175 million renovation, which was announced on 19 December 2013. The hotel recently checked out its last guest in preparation for the 18-month refurbishment, which will revitalize the landmark property into the Midtown East luxury hotel of choice for elite travelers.

"We are delighted to work with our partners, Constellation Barclay Holding US LLC, to manage the extensive renovation of our classic New York hotel," said Herve Houdre, regional director of operations and general manager of the InterContinental New York Barclay hotel. "The result will be the rebirth of a luxury hotel that reflects its elegance and architectural grandeur, as well as the classic taste and style of its sophisticated, international neighborhood."

First opened in 1926, the hotel is located right in the heart of Manhattan and a short walk from Park Avenue, Madison Avenue and the United Nations building. The iconic InterContinental New York Barclay has been the hotel of choice, and sometimes residence, for politicians, cultural influencers and other prominent figures throughout the decades, including U.S. presidents, author Ernest Hemingway, ambassador and renowned hostess Perle Mesta, and civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The hotel's new design ‒ developed with the assistance of architecture firm Stonehill + Taylor and interior designers HOK (formerly BBGM) ‒ will completely revitalize the Federalist-style property, maintaining its heritage, while updating it to cater to the needs of today's discerning international traveler. The design will reflect the distinctive culture of its location, while offering the luxury and consistency that InterContinental guests worldwide expect from their preferred brand. On completion, the property will feature approximately 700 guestrooms, a new InterContinental® Club Lounge and a fully refurbished lobby with a new Gin bar and restaurant. The hotel also will continue to serve as an outstanding venue for memorable corporate meetings through the InterContinental® Meetings platform, as well as for social events in either of the two elegant ballrooms. The enhanced hotel experience will be brought to life by the hotel's world-class employees and concierge team who offer intuitive service and expert "Insider Knowledge" of the city.