The Suites at The Fifth Avenue Hotel
Location - Midtown, New York City
Product Used - Hugo HW3262
Designer - Martin Brudnizki Design Studio
Photographer - Joe Thomas
Instagram - m_b_d_s_
A Gilded Past Reimagined
Opened in 2023, The Fifth Avenue Hotel stands on the historic site of one of New York’s last remaining Gilded Age mansions. Once home to Charlotte Goodridge, whose residence at 250 Fifth Avenue hosted elegant receptions and musical evenings in the late 19th century, the property has long been associated with culture, society, and refined living.
Today, that legacy has been thoughtfully reinterpreted by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio (MBDS), who envisioned interiors that celebrate bohemian romanticism and the glamour of the Gilded Age, while introducing a distinctly contemporary sensibility.
Design That Tells a Story
MBDS approached the design with a layered, expressive aesthetic. Rich colors, ornate detailing, and eclectic furnishings create spaces that feel both intimate and theatrical. The mansion suites embody this vision, blending historic references with playful modernity.
Intricate architectural elements, vibrant textiles, and curated artwork sit alongside bold color palettes, creating a narrative that feels immersive rather than nostalgic. Each room offers a unique composition, yet all remain grounded in a cohesive design language that honors the building’s past.
A Foundation of Craftsmanship
A key component of this storytelling lies underfoot. Havwoods’ Hugo HW3262 was selected as a defining feature throughout the mansion suites, bringing warmth, depth, and structure to the interiors.
This sanded and core smoked plank, with its rich cocoa tones, was installed in a striking chevron pattern, introducing movement and visual rhythm across each space. The addition of plank borders frames the pattern elegantly, enhancing the sense of craftsmanship and reinforcing the tailored aesthetic of the rooms.
The natural variation within the wood complements the layered interiors, balancing ornate detailing with an organic, grounded foundation. The result is a floor that feels both timeless and expressive, seamlessly aligning with the design narrative.
Contemporary Luxury with Historic Roots
The Fifth Avenue Hotel successfully bridges past and present. While the design pays homage to the grandeur and artistry of the Gilded Age, it avoids imitation, instead offering a fresh interpretation that feels vibrant and relevant.
Through the collaboration between MBDS and Havwoods, the mansion suites achieve a refined balance of texture, tone, and pattern. The Hugo flooring not only enhances the visual richness of the interiors but also supports the functionality required of a modern luxury hospitality space.
