Glass revels in the homespun charm of the Roger Smith hotel, New York

 THE dark red carpet in the lobby was a giveaway. Only old-school hotels with rich histories have red carpet in their lobbies. I knew I would be in safe hands during my stay at the Roger Smith, a winsomely charming boutique hotel situated just a few moments from New York’s iconic Grand Central Terminal.

The Roger Smith Entrance on Lexington Ave, New York

Having occupied the bustle of Lexington Avenue for more than 80 years, the hotel is one of the longest-running family-owned hotels in Midtown, and its ambition to create an intimate home away from home – at great value – is certainly realised. Adjacent to the cosy lobby, where fresh apples and artisanal yoghurt delivered from Vermont are available to guests around the clock, is the hotel’s bar, Lily’s, a casual joint which also showcases art projects on its walls.

Artistic enterprises appear to be at the heart of the hotel’s mission. Its CEO, James Knowles, is also the Roger Smith’s artist-in-residence, and has been the force behind the art program since the 1980s. The striking bronze sculptures that are situated at the front of the building are by him, as are the bronze heads of notable literary figures displayed in the hotel’s Starlight room. The Window at 125 is another example of a deep commitment to creating an interesting enterprise for creative passers-by and curious guests alike: a street-level gallery that has exhibited the work of emerging and unrepresented artists since 2012.

A Premium Suite at Roger Smith

The most persuasive of the hotel’s artistry, though, is its creative approach to interior design. Each guestroom is designed with hand-picked furnishings by Suzanne Knowles (wife of James), whose father, Oscar di Lima, was the hotel’s original owner. The furniture and artwork that inhabits each room originate from antique stores and fairs, personally selected by Suzanne. Every single room and suite, therefore, is completely unique. An elegant and quirky thread ran throughout the majestic suite I stayed in, in the form of floral armchairs, gingham bed skirts, oak cabinets and standalone clothes racks. The bathroom tiles, which overall created an image of a female figure surrounded by rounded abstract splodges, were the prettiest, most inspiring I have seen.

The real icing on the cake is the bookshelf in each room, to which the Roger Smith adds an eclectic mix of literary works. Guests can help themselves to a title that takes their fancy, and take it away with them upon their departure. They are also encouraged to leave any of their own books for the next guest to enjoy. Such a quirky touch only highlights the hotel’s cordial and thoughtful culture.

A Premium Suite with Books, Roger Smith hotel

While any of the Roger Smith’s 132 rooms and suites would be a wonderful place in which to unwind, the Premium Suites (seven in total) will truly rush you off your feet – each includes two bedrooms, a living room, a pantry, and three televisions. Six Superior Suites complement these: one-bed spaces with living rooms that offer a queen sofa sleeper, a sitting area and writing desk, plus beautiful fireplaces. A few suites have private terraces but, regardless, gorgeous views of the surrounding cityscape are abundant from numerous windows.

Henry’s rooftop bar, Roger Smith hotel

For a really spectacular view, plus a breathe of fresh air, head up to Henry’s: the Roger Smith’s snug rooftop bar, which offers cocktails new and classic alike, and nice seating arrangements, so you can linger for an evening in complete comfort. Because that’s what the Roger Smith excels at: superlatively relaxed stays.

by Derby Jones

The Roger Smith, 501 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10017, USA