New York City’s Plaza Hotel is closing for at least four years for repair and restoration work on its facade.
The iconic Fifth Avenue hotel will shut its doors starting in January, officials announced Wednesday.
The Plaza has been a landmark in Manhattan for more than 100 years. It first opened in 1907 and has been recognized for its “architectural character, exceptional craftsmanship, and enduring presence.”
“Understanding the unique place in New York City’s architectural heritage and cultural history it holds, The Plaza Hotel is advancing plans for repair and restoration works to its landmark-protected façade,” the announcement stated. “The undertaking reflects the complexity of maintaining a property of such architectural and historical significance, with careful consideration given to preservation requirements and the building’s long-term care, as well as the safety of our guests, employees, and the wider community.”
No details about how much the makeover will cost or specific renovations were released.
The announcement said the plans require detailed planning and coordination with stakeholders and adherence to historic preservation requirements.
The Department of Buildings said its most recent inspection of The Plaza found that its facade is unsafe, which is why it’s required to have a sidewalk shed around it. However, the DOB told CBS News New York there’s nothing on the city’s end that would prevent hotel from staying open while repairs are made.
There are residents who live in the hotel full-time, but it’s unclear if they will be impacted.
The last time the hotel closed was during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, when it shut its doors for more than a year. It also closed from 2005 to 2008 for a $450 million lobby-to-roof restoration.
“Home Alone 2,” “Bride Wars,” and “The Great Gatsby” are just a few movies that were filmed at the hotel. Meanwhile, the classic children’s books “Eloise at the Plaza and Eloise at Christmastime” are about a young girl living at the top of the hotel.
