The Vibe
Originally built in 1912 as a bank, Nine Orchard has been restored into a hotel with a unique neo-Renaissance vibe. The exterior of this corner building stands out from neighboring buildings due to a clock with Renaissance men etched around it and the name S. Jarmulowsky Bank inscribed above it. The lobby is small, and between the wooden antique-looking furniture and floral wallpaper, it feels like you’ve stepped into someone’s living room. The discreet check-in counter resembles an old-school box office. Behind the desk is a wall of room keys with heavy wooden keychains on them. The guests who stay here are looking for a boutique environment that is discreet, unique and authentic. It’s perfect for solo travelers as well as couples.
How I Felt
Creative.
The décor, interior design and gorgeous crown moldings of this bank, which was reimagined into a boutique hotel, unleashed my artistic and innovative side. The mere thought of refurbishing a near-dilapidated building into a neighborhood marvel is impressive. There is a parlor room that’s perfect for working or lounging in. The room has a fireplace and mismatched designs and colors on the carpet, furniture and walls that seamlessly work together. To dig deeper into how this hotel is a creative haven, Nine Orchard offers a Design Suite filled with incredible artwork, colors and prints.
The Digs
The rooms are compact and reminiscent of apartment living, but with enough space to feel comfortable and not suffocated. Attention to detail has not been overlooked at Nine Orchard. The rooms are quiet and have large windows, allowing ample natural light to enter the room. The windowsill has a selection of good reads selected by the owner of a local bookstore for a slow morning, and there are speakers that have been programmed with a few locally inspired stations. The furniture is simple, yet it fits perfectly into the room. The minibar closet doubles as a bulletin board with tidbits about the neighborhood. The bathroom products were developed by the owner of a local salon, and the turndown sweet treats were baked by a local bakery. Nine Orchard champions giving back to small businesses in the local community.
The Agenda
Nine Orchard’s name is fitting, as it’s located at 9 Orchard Street, on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, NYC. My mornings started with breakfast at the hotel before exploring the neighborhood on foot. The area is full of cafes, restaurants and clothing boutiques. SoHo is located within a 30-minute walk from the hotel. Cervo’s Spanish and Portuguese restaurant, around the corner from the hotel, was one of my favorite places for dinner and drinks.
The Eats
The hotel has two notable dining venues: Corner Bar and Swan Room. The Swan Room once served as the bank’s lobby and is breathtaking with its ornamental ceiling. It’s the perfect place for a nightcap martini or a morning breakfast sandwich. The Corner Bar is a very simple, tavern-style restaurant offering classic dishes.
Why I Would Go Back
I’d return for the location and convenience. The hotel was within walking distance of trendy coffee shops, bars and restaurants and some great shopping.
Latifah Al-Hazzà
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