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In the midst of the world-renowned tourism meccas of New York City there sits an unassuming historical gem that can lead to a delightful neighborhood exploration. It's not on Broadway or Fifth Avenue, but rather Madison, in a legendary hotel bordering the Flatiron and Gramercy Park areas of the city.
The story begins in 1904, a grand and opulent era, when the Carlton Hotel first opened its door - as the Seville. In the century that has ensued, it has changed names and hands and has gone through a cycle of heydays and less glamorous times. Today, a new chapter begins for this historical building, thanks to a $60 million face lift.
The Carlton is at 88 Madison Ave., between 28th and 29th streets. It was built just two years after the Flatiron Building, the city's first skyscraper in 1902. The Carlton, a 12-story beaux-arts hotel, is now making history of its own. The hotel was recently restored by architect David Rockwell of the Rockwell Group and has 316 guest rooms and suites, many with spectacular views of the Empire State Building and Madison Avenue.
Plans to refurbish the landmark hotel began in the late 1990s after the Wolfson family took control of the property. Their vision has produced stunning results throughout, but the showstopper is an original stained glass dome that illuminates the elegant dining room. Rockwell uncovered the 30-foot, Tiffany-style glass, along with the room's original terrazzo floors. Restaurant general manager David Sturno confirmed that when the five-year hotel renovation began, no one knew that...