Marriott announced that they’re buying the W New York – Union Square property as they plan to renovate the entire hotel and turn it into one of the brand’s new flagship properties. Guest rooms were recently refreshed, so it will be interesting to see if they decide to redo these again or if just the common areas get updated.

The original W New York has been transformed into the Maxwell Hotel, a Tribute portfolio, leaving just the W Times Square and W New York – Downtown in addition to the W Union Square in New York City.

Per Marriott,

Marriott announced that it has purchased the 270-room W New York – Union Square in the heart of Manhattan’s dynamic Union Square neighborhood. The company paid $206 million for W New York – Union Square, with plans for a significant renovation. Marriott International will transform the existing hotel into a cutting-edge W Hotels showcase, advancing the company’s strategy to redefine and reinvigorate the brand in North America.

Located at 201 Park Avenue South, the 20-story hotel features historic Beaux Arts architecture, panoramic views of Union Square’s namesake pedestrian plaza and lively park, and a “W Union Square†rooftop sign that stands out on the Downtown skyline. The property first opened its doors in 1911 as the headquarters of the Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, and in 2000 opened as W New York – Union Square, becoming an anchor for locals and out-of-town guests, alike.

The renovation seeks to unlock the property’s untapped potential with plans for a signature, socially-charged spa and an expanded restaurant on one of New York City’s most bustling street corners. Honoring the brand’s electric New York City roots and innovative drive, the renovated hotel will be the incubator and catalyst for a new vision for W in North America – one focused on immersive, next-level contextual design; authentic, experiential programming, and a fresh take on the brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service philosophy.

See also Marriott Announces W Toronto Hotel Summer 2020 Opening

Have you stayed at the W Union Square before? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.