The Vibe: Laid-back beach culture, but hey this is NYC?
The Area: Rockaway Beach, Queens. In recent years, signs of a comeback have emerged, earning it the moniker “Williamsburg on the Rockaways” thanks to the influx of Brooklynites who adopted it as a summer stomping ground.
The DNA: Housed in a new building that compliments the existing bungalows that dot the shoreline, the six-storey The Rockaway Hotel makes nods to the surrounding topography and existing architecture by echoing the colours of the neighbouring houses and incorporating zinc paneling, which is also frequently used. With views of either New York City or the Atlantic Ocean to compete with, the interiors of the hotel are suitably low-key, inspired by 1960s beach culture, with un-fussy materials such as wood, concrete and cane and mixing them with lien, wool, leather and an abundance of natural greenery that punctuates the hotel’s shared spaces. While the hotel’s beachfront views and access, rooftop restaurant, and outdoor pool with its accompanying deck and bar are all feature attractions in and of itself, its art collection is just as notable. With a rotating selection of artists, like Derrick Adams and Roe Etheridge and including commissioned works by Zoe Buckman and Hannah Whitaker, the collection reflects the hotel’s support of the Rockaway’s vibrant culture – it is also the lead sponsor behind the recently unveiled mural project by Shantell Martin at Seaside Playground.
Suite-Me-Up: With nods to Scandinavian minimalism and functionality while still exuding warmth and tranquility, the 53 guestrooms and 8 suites (with kitchens), is made for soaking up the surrounding scenery. Rooms have a sunny vibe and are not at all fussy or formal: Blonde wood floor, (more) art in white frames, natural materials on furniture with woven accents and lived-in-looking pillows with pops of color.
Seen: Surface, Wallpaper*
Accolades: Condé Nast Traveller Hot List 2021
✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 53 rooms, 8 suites (14-31m2) (151-334 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2020 • architecture: Morris Adjmi Architects • interior design: Curious Yellow Design • bathroom amenities: Goldies • on-site parking (charged) • pets allowed • wheelchair accessible
