Williamsburg, New York
The William Vale
Concentration of Cool
What it is
An architectural star grows in Brooklyn.
What it isn't
For old geezers. Everything from the Marela Zacarias lobby installation to hopping rooftop bar is designed for millennials (or the young at heart).
What we think
Even from the outside, this hotel is a stunner. An angular slab rises 22 stories above Williamsburg, held up by huge concreted trusses and striated with balconies and open balconies (the architects are Albo Liberis). The interiors by Studio Munge are no less arresting, punctuated by intriguing local art, designer lamps and elegant metalwork overlay. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies that offer uninterrupted views of the Manhattan skyline. That’s one reason to stay on this side of the East River—but the William Vale also taps into the vibrant Brooklyn lifestyle, with events like film screenings, yoga classes and pool parties. The restaurants by New York chef Andrew Carmellini include Leuca for Italian, the Westlight rooftop bar and even a retro Airstream trailer serving burgers and ice cream in the adjacent park. Fun times all but guaranteed.
You're here because
You want to hang with the cool kids and are eager to partake in Williamsburg’s fresh, inventive energy.
The Moment
You join the casual-but-chic guests milling around the Vale Pool, Manhattan’s skyscrapers glinting in the distance. The DJ spins soothing tunes as you grab an Aperol spritz from the bar and toast the Brooklyn vibe.
Restaurants & Bars
Leuca - Southern Italian
Location
On the northern reaches of Brooklyn’s so-hip-it-hurts Williamsburg neighborhood, a block or so from McCarren Park and surrounded by boutique shopping and fine-dive dining. JFK is 40 minutes by car; Manhattan’s East Village will take you around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.