Warren Street Hotel

Finding a hotel that works for a family aged between nine and 79 is no small feat, but it was mine, for a much anticipated New York get-together over spring half-term, with husband, daughters (one of whom a tween, may I add), and the Italian in-laws. I know!

I can spare you the suspense (and future headaches) and tell you that I nailed it: the answer is The Warren Street Hotel. You could stop here and book, or read on to hear why.

Smack in the heart of Tribeca, it’s vibey-but-not-too-vibey, central-but-not-touristy and just the right mix of energy and ease. Unlike most family-friendly spots (which often lean painfully basic), this one is unapologetically bold, beautifully put together, and strikes a rare balance between feeling like home and reminding you — oh yes — that you’re in New York City, the most exciting city in the world. Plus, every restaurant I had meticulously researched and booked months in advance conveniently seemed to be ‘just a couple of blocks away’, meaning everyone from my mother-in-law with a bad knee, to the children that never want to walk anywhere, were happy. 

It was six hours into my stay when I found the ‘angle’ of this anonymous review. Not during check-in, or the quick tour through a breakfast room flooded with light from a soaring skylight, a cosy snug lounge and an authentically NYC-style main bar — all introduced as 'yours, 24 hours a day'. No, the moment came during that most glamorous travel ritual of mine: unpacking my thoughtfully curated NYC suitcase.

Standing in front of a walk-in wardrobe cleverly tucked just before the bathroom was like stepping into a Carrie Bradshaw daydream, so satisfying and thoughtfully designed, my heart skipped a little beat. Shelves at the right height, spaces that made sense, lavender sachets (yes, really), and hangers for every type of clothing: shirts (padded), trousers, jackets and skirts (a rarity) and, miraculously, enough of them. Oh, and full-length mirrors all the way around you.

Later, while doing my make-up before dinner, it struck me again: the bathroom lighting was flattering, forgiving and fabulous. No overhead glare, no awkward shadows. The kind of light that makes you flirt shamelessly with your own reflection. I could practically hear my skin whispering 'thank you'. Then, as I was heading out the door for dinner, I spotted another smart detail: a small sideboard for your bag and essentials, and a massive mirror for one last approval nod before stepping out. 

But the real 'aha' moment came later that night. I was unpacking the usual handbag bits like lip balm, reading glasses, a book and hand cream, and went to tuck them into the nightstand drawer. When I opened it, I noticed something small yet telling: bespoke built-in drawer dividers. Proper ones, thoughtfully arranged to hold all those little bits that usually float around the moment you open a drawer. Not something you expect to feel emotional about and yet, there I was, speechless. Oh, and perched on top of the drawer? A pillow spray. Of course. 

Everything about the room, from the layout to the lighting, from the pillows to the power sockets, carried that rare combination of beauty and deep intuition. That’s when it clicked: of course, this was a hotel designed by a woman! Not just any woman — Kit Kemp, the celebrated British designer of London’s Ham Yard Hotel and the visionary behind the entire Firmdale Hotels collection. Once you notice, her signature is everywhere. The divine lip-print throw pillows on the sofas, the warm marine-blue exterior standing out in a sea of city greys, connecting family rooms that actually connect logically, and even the elegant sewing kit, the kind you might consider nicking but don’t because, manners.

Everyone saw it: whimsical fabrics so pretty my mother-in-law was caught photographing them for her own home; the bunches of beautiful pencils (a firm hit with our nine-year-old); the well-stocked honesty bar that thrilled my husband; and the nightly New York jazz players that had my father-in-law totally charmed. 

Travelling with family can feel like a diplomatic mission, but The Warren Street Hotel made it easy. The food is spot-on and accommodating of any dietary requirements, and the service is attentive without ever being overbearing. It’s stylish enough for design lovers, warm enough for grandparents, and practical enough for kids with very specific opinions. Everyone was happy. Miracle!

So yes, it’s beautiful and perfectly located, but what stayed with me most were the thoughtful, feminine design touches, the kind that quietly get you. A hotel that lets you settle in, stretch out and still feel just a little bit fabulous doing it.

The kind of place that understands the power of flattering lighting, lavender-scented wardrobes and a properly hung holiday suitcase — and frankly, that’s my love language.