The Langham’s signature color is pink, a symbol of the iconic hotel brand’s heritage and timeless charm. But at its New York City property, you’ll have to hunt a bit for the hue. You’ll spot it here and there, amongst the hotel’s private collection of fabulous artwork by the legendary figurative and landscape artist, Alex Katz. The story of this signature pink begins at the brand’s flagship property, The Langham, London, where a rose garden once bloomed with light pink roses that would inspire the signature color seen today in every Langham hotel around the world (29 total). It appears subtly yet unmistakably in hotel decor and amenities, such as within a whimsical amenity plate of New York-themed, pink frosted cookies.
The Langham brand originated in 1865 with its London hotel, widely considered to be Europe's first “Grand Hotel.” It featured innovations such as hydraulic lifts and in-room running water. Over the years, The Langham expanded globally, with properties across Asia, Europe, and North America, including The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue, where a sophisticated, understated design and a welcoming atmosphere create a calming ambiance that feels a world away from the busy streets outside. While other luxury hotels in New York City’s Midtown are often bustling and can feel crowded due to their larger scale, The Langham offers a more serene atmosphere with just 234 rooms. This creates a quieter, relaxed vibe, which is ideal for travelers who seek a tranquil escape from the city’s fast-paced energy.
While the hotel’s décor is sleek, it is far from overly formal. It strikes a balance between modernity and classic luxury, making it accessible to a wide range of guests, from business professionals to tourists. Guest rooms and suites come in a variety of layouts: Deluxe Rooms, Junior and One Bedroom Suites, Executive Club Rooms, and the Presidential Suite. Many rooms offer stunning views of the New York City skyline, including the Empire State Building, and all are ultra-spacious by Big Apple standards. Each features sleek, furnishings, high-end finishes, and floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light to fill the space. Neutral tones and high-tech features offer a comfortable and quiet retreat. And the expansive marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs are a particularly luxe feature.
And though spacious the rooms might be, it’s always a luxury to have another space in which to unwind, relax, or work. At The Langham, New York, that space is The Langham Club, an exclusive lounge overlooking Fifth Avenue. Offering an elevated experience for those seeking additional indulgence, this private haven and its cozy living room and large dining area feature culinary offerings morning through night, premium bar service, a bevy of coffee drinks and sodas, a help yourself candy bar, and newspapers. It’s a wonderful spot in which to start your day, take an afternoon reprieve, or unwind in the evening. On Friday evenings, caviar service is rolled out, and the champagne flows. Poised club attendants are friendly, accommodating, and at your service. Access to The Langham Club is included for those that book Executive Club Rooms, Executive Club Rooms with Kitchen, Junior Suite with Empire State View, One Bedroom Empire State View Suite, a Penthouse or the Presidential Suite. (Additional guests and guests in any other room category may purchase club access.)
Access to The Langham Club or not, the service at The Langham is impeccable. The hotel prides itself on offering personalized attention to every guest; staff who go out of their way to anticipate needs. Whether you need assistance arranging transportation or a recommendation for a nearby restaurant, the concierge team is always ready to help.
Speaking of restaurants, mention of The Langham to any New York City insider elicits oohs and ahhs over the hotel’s restaurant, Ai Fiori. The well-known Mediterranean-inspired spot, frequented by high-profile guests and celebrities, has garnered significant attention for its exceptional dining experience and elegant ambiance. It serves Michelin level cuisine within an elegant atmosphere that feels distinct from the more standard hotel fare you might find at other luxury properties in the area. Here, staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and highly skilled, ensuring that diners receive a seamless experience from start to finish.
The hotel’s prime Fifth Avenue location puts guests in close proximity to the Empire State Building, the fabulous New York Public Library, and spacious Bryant Park, a peaceful green oasis surrounded by skyscrapers. It’s a vibrant gathering spot, hosting everything from outdoor movie nights in the summer to winter ice skating, and is known for its beautiful seasonal gardens. Central Park, the Museum of Modern Art, and Rockefeller Center are not far, and for shoppers, the hotel sits near flagship stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue.
For visitors who want a quiet, sophisticated retreat while still being immersed in the pulse of New York City, The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue offers the ideal balance of luxury, location, and service.
One of the most charming elements tied to The Langham’s pink legacy can be found in the hotel’s pink floral pens. During renovation of The Langham, London, a beautiful pink floral wallpaper was discovered hidden behind walls. This intricately designed wallpaper was brought back to life and translated into the delicate floral motif of the hotel’s signature pens, now found in every Langham hotel. Go ahead; take one home as a lovely reminder of your Langham stay.
The Langham, New York proudly celebrates native New Yorker and legendary figurative and landscape artist Alex Katz with its collection of 11 original works and nearly 250 reprints by this leader of the Pop Art movement. The works, located throughout the hotel, are emblematic of Katz’s signature use of surface, uncomplicated subjects, and bright color against monochromatic backgrounds, and are a defining feature of the hotel.
Photos courtesy of The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue.
