The Waldorf Astoria, located near Grand Central Station, is a historical hotel that opened in 1931 and was once the tallest and largest in the world, known for its luxury and sophistication. In 2017, the hotel closed for a major renovation led by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), which aimed to blend historical preservation with modern architectural innovations. The renovation drastically reduced the number of hotel rooms from 1,400 to just 375 while converting the remaining space into 372 private residences, ensuring that key historical areas were meticulously restored.

The design philosophy for the renovation focused on understanding the original architects' intentions, researching the hotel's cultural history, and assessing its current condition. The building's exterior has been updated with limestone and aluminum, transitioning to the signature Waldorf Grey brick. The extensive renovation process has aimed not only to restore the hotel's past grandeur but also to ensure it meets contemporary luxury standards, providing a unique blend of history, modernity, and exclusivity.

As a cultural and architectural icon, the Waldorf Astoria's reopening represents a significant moment in New York's hospitality industry. This ambitious project reaffirms the importance of historical hotels in the urban landscape, demonstrating how such establishments can evolve while preserving their rich heritage. The renewal of the Waldorf Astoria is likely to attract both tourists and local patrons, contributing to the ongoing transformation of New York City's hospitality scene.