Iconic New York Plaza Hotel to Close for Four-Year Facade Restoration

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts confirmed that the Plaza Hotel, a Fifth Avenue landmark opened in 1907, will close in January for a four-year restoration of its celebrated façade. The 18-story building, noted for its French Renaissance-inspired design, has seen multiple owners and renovations, including a partial conversion to condominiums in the early 2000s. While the operator did not disclose the project's cost or whether condo residents will be displaced, it emphasized the complexity of preserving such a historic structure.

Event venues and the Palm Court restaurant will also be shuttered during the work. Historic preservation professor Andrew Dolkart expressed surprise at the need for another major exterior overhaul but agreed that a full closure is sensible given the expected noise. The Hotel & Gaming Trades Council said the 378 Plaza employees will be able to return at the same wages after the renovation, with the union seeking interim placements for them.