A View From the Bridge

An irony of Manhattan real estate is that some of the best views come not from the island itself, but from across the rivers. The newly opened 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge addresses that issue. Situated in Brooklyn Bridge Park, just a few blocks south of the iconic suspension bridge and overlooking the East River, the ten-story luxury project designed by New York architectural firm Incorporated features floor-to-ceiling windows in its 194 rooms. The view of the downtown skyline, the Statue of Liberty, the river, and the bridge is unencumbered—and stunning.

Inside 1 Hotel is just as remarkable. Design elements pay tribute to Brooklyn, creating an industrial-Zen feel with regional and reclaimed materials, such as pine beams from the former Domino Sugar Refinery and walnut from Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Though eco-consciousness is tantamount to the hotel’s design and practices (a rain-water reclamation system, use of wind power, etc.), luxury is not sacrificed, with amenities such as rooftop bar and pool, a tenth floor lounge, and a spa and yoga.