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Eight years since its opening, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge continues to redefine hotel sustainability in “the city that never sleeps.”
Upon walking in, my partner and I were greeted by an airy, plant-filled lobby with loads of guests and digital nomads working away, and a charismatic set of staff dressed in casual denim from head to toe—both signs that we were in fact, in New York, and steps away from the natural world that keeps us afloat. During our stay, we couldn’t help but notice the little details that reminded us what it means to live sustainably and in tune with our environment. Room keys and interiors made of reclaimed wood, an engraved rock inviting guests to recycle their used clothing, sand timers in the shower, a filtered water system separate from the sinks in every room, a farmstand beside the lobby elevators, even the bridge and park views all served as moments of mindfulness.
From bottom to top, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge has built in services, amenities, and a genuine sense of hospitality that makes you feel as though you never have to leave (or would want to leave). Starting at Level -1, the Bamford Wellness Spa offers a wide range of treatments, including a steam room and relaxation lounge. Zephie and Maria treated us to full-body massages in dimly-lit, modern rooms. The highlight of the experience was when the concierge at the front desk referred to us as “king” and “queen.”
In addition to the co-working space, the first floor also houses The Osprey, a farm-to-table restaurant that does not lack East River views either. Floor 2 continues 1 Hotel’s theme of wellness with its state-of-the-art gyms, personal training services, and communal yoga classes. After 194 rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, we reached Harriet’s Lounge on 10R, which boasts leather booths, creative cocktails, and seasonal apps. Our server, Marto kept our energy alive through the unexpected downpours with his compliments and sense of humor. Harriet’s Rooftop on 11 is where the full skyline views hit, and your inner mermaid is released. Floating in the pool and staring out into the open skies is a must, even if it’s just for 20 minutes. 1 Hotel has cracked the code in building out an eco-conscious retreat within the noise and excitement of the city.
Neighborhood:
DUMBO (or Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is not just a tourist attraction for its quintessential photo opps near and under the bridges, but also home to some memorable New York staples, like Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, and trendy minimalist cafes, like %Arabica on its cobblestone streets. New galleries, shops, and restaurants are constantly popping up in the area. Older buildings are even being repurposed for arts events (St. Ann’s Warehouse). Scattered with parks and playgrounds, it’s hard to miss the natural beauty of the neighborhood.
Nearby:
- The Brooklyn Flea hosts a variety of vintage/antique vendors and independent designers in the DUMBO Archway that sure piqued our fashion, design and “cool-looking-things” interest. We cooled down from the sauna-like heat with drinks from the bar and stopped at nearly every station in awe.
- Support an indie bookstore like PowerHouse Arena, which hosts fun events, including a comedy night, and contains a bar area for all your hydration needs.
- Grab a bite from DUMBO Market, the neighborhood supermarket with prepared foods comparable to Whole Foods, or James’ (front desk staff) favorite spot—our 21,000-square-foot TimeOut Market, featuring NYC’s diverse food-and-drink offerings.
Time Out tip:
Avoid the crowd at Harriet’s Rooftop on weekend nights and take a stroll on the waterfront instead. A ride on Jane’s Carousel is the definition of healing your inner child.
P.S. Don’t stay one night. We made that mistake for you already.