With New York City experiencing a massive resurgence in tourism, its hotels are being called on to meet travellers with savvy, safe spaces that offer (some) bang for your buck. In answer, a slew of new hotel openings over the last year, including CIVILIAN, have joined the city’s smorgasbord of tried-and-true properties. Among these is ModernHaus SoHo, a dapper new spot in one of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods.

While this hotel stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.

ModernHaus SoHo review: a new neighbourhood icon

In its previous life, ModernHaus SoHo was another popular hotel and those familiar with the original will find subtle holdovers still lingering, including the rooftop bar and the prime location on the neighbourhood’s southwest corner. From here, guests are well-placed to access everything the area—and the city—has to offer, from chic boutiques and department
stores to top-tier, restaurants, bars, and attractions.

The entry experience kicks off the design detailing at ModernHaus SoHo

Now, as the first hospitality venture in the city from Thor Equities Group, ModernHaus SoHo boasts an approachable aesthetic created by the Group’s director, Jack J. Sitt and stylist consultant Melissa Bowers. Inspired by the Bauhaus movement, this is a design-forward property that blends intelligent interiors with creature comforts.

Clean lines and geometric patterns abound, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the hotel with natural light and classic New York views while allowing SoHo’s energy and style to take centre stage. Drawing on the heritage of its neighbourhood, ModernHaus SoHo also boasts a compelling art collection of paintings and sculptures by artists likes Hans Hartung, Harland Miller, Kaws, and Nicolas Party. Many pieces come from Sitt’s own collection, creating a distinctly personal perspective of modern art.

The room

skyline king studio ModernHaus SoHo
Wake up to stunning views (Image: Nikolas Koenig)

There are 114 guestrooms and suites at ModernHaus SoHo, all of which come with panoramic city views, an abundance of natural light, and an intuitive, sleek design. My Skyline King Studio is a coveted corner room dressed in neutral tones carefully enlivened by pops of color in the artwork and chairs.

There’s nothing quite like waking up in a plush king-sized bed to awe-inspiring New York views, though, the in-room breakfast of decadent pancakes, enjoyed while daydreaming by the windows comes close. The tiled bathroom is far smaller than the room itself, but has been cleverly designed with a walk-in rainshower, Le Labo amenities, and lighting that’s perfectly thought out for applying make-up (or shaving).

All the extras

I’m only here for a one-night stay, but for those who have time to linger, ModernHaus SoHo has plenty to offer. Twenty Three Grand is a collection of drinking and dining spaces, while the lounge-like Jumpin Jacks is a breakfast and cocktail bar specialising in high-end coffees and quality libations.

A pointed remnant of the hotel’s previous iteration, Jimmy is a beloved year-round rooftop bar that’s been a neighbourhood nightlife staple for years thanks to its seasonally-inspired cocktails and decadent bar bites. I didn’t get a chance to visit myself, but friends who have say it’s still a top choice for drinks in the area.

Signature Room ModernHaus Soho
The Signature Room is the perfect hideaway for private events or meetings (Image: Nikolas Koenig)

For guests needing to work off their indulgences, ModernHaus SoHo has a fully-equipped 400 sq-ft gym where you can work up a sweat amid downtown views. Of course, you might prefer to grab a lounger on the rooftop pool deck instead, as I do for a quick 30 minutes of me-time before I check out.

There’s something to be said for well-considered boutique properties that manage to hit all the right notes. ModernHaus SoHo offers convenience, comfortable rooms, a solid collection of drinking and dining, and a useful selection of wellness facilities. Add in a reasonably affordable price point (for New York), and you’ve got a smart neighbourhood hotel poised to become a cosy bolthole for travellers and a social spot for locals.

Learn more about ModernHaus SoHo

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