FROM the moment you enter the Conrad hotel you are impressed by its trove of artwork. Before you even discover the hotel’s 2000 artworks on display, you are encapsulated by the Loopy Doopy dramatic blue and purple Sol LeWitt painting, that rises 13 stories high – The late artist’s largest and most revered work. The piece, which took 380 litres of paint and 3000 hours to complete, is simply breath-taking in the sunlit 15-story atrium entrance. Then, as you walk to the top of the hotel’s grand staircase you’re greeted by another expansive wall painting this time by Pat Steir, entitled Topsy Turvey for its display of gem-toned painted ribbons, flowing over a subtle grid on a yellow background. And in the east entry of the atrium lobby, sits Imi Knoebel’s Mennige (Polygon). Other featured artists include Mary Heilmann, Elizabeth Peyton and Sara Sosnowy. Well positioned in Battery Park City, of Lower Manhattan this hotel is a firm favourite for business travellers. Just a short distance from public transport options and nearby neighbourhoods including Tribeca, Soho, the Financial District and even New Jersey. However, with the option to set up suites for meetings, you have the choice to take care of your business in the comfort of the hotel. All suites come equipped with complimentary wifi, one-touch integrated room control technology, a Nespresso machine, rainfall showers and fluffy, luxurious bathrobes. If you are looking to host a business meeting, opt for the Conrad Suite, which boasts a separate office area as well as a large, modern living area and a full dining room and kitchenette. And after of a long day of meetings? Relax in the master bathroom while you unwind and watch a bit of TV in your choice between the rainfall shower or a whirlpool tub. The Hudson River View Suites are another firm favourite for (you guessed it) their picturesque views. Regardless of which suite you decide to cosy up in for the duration of your stay, service at The Conrad is second to none.

Enjoy personalised service at your fingertips with the Conrad Concierge mobile app. That’s right, whether you want to make a dinner reservation at the hotel’s esteemed restaurant, ATRIO, or stay in and order room service you can do it all from your mobile device or your suite’s TV. But don’t think for a minute that this hotel is all business and no play. The hotel’s own Loopy Doopy rooftop bar is where it’s all at. Begin your evening here, where you can sample hand-crafted cocktails 16 stories above the city. Sip and sightsee while you overlook the Statue of Liberty and the New York Harbor below you. Guests here are welcomed on a first come first serve basis with no reservations possible during the operational hours. The rooftop bar is, however, available to book for photoshoots, social gatherings, intimate weddings and even outdoor business meetings during non-operational hours. Full buyout options are also available for private events of up to 75 people during normal operational hours. The Prosecco & Ice Pop cocktail is a must on a warm summer’s evening – think fruity People’s Pop ice pops (choose between your favourite Blueberry Peach, Strawberry Lemongrass or Empire Apple flavours) topped with chilled Prosecco! If popsicles aren’t quite your thing try the Pink Lady Sangria made from Pink Lady Apples, sour cherries and red wine, or choose something from the menu’s selection of whiskeys, bourbon, craft beers, wine and champagne. The shared plates offer a good salty snack to accompany your sundowner. Try the sea salt and olive oil potato chips with Parmesan truffle aioli or the Italian Charcuterie that includes marinated soppressata, cilliengini, cornichons and peppadew peppers for something a little more substantial. Be careful not to fill yourself up on the snacks before dinner though because a dining experience at ATRIO Wine Bar & Restaurant is not to be missed. Located in the centre of The Conrad’s bold 15-story lobby, ATRIO serves up seasonally-inspired New American cuisine from the most dramatic open kitchen. Sit back and watch as the award-winning restaurant’s Executive Chef, Gerron Douglas and his team prepare delicious dishes, created with the finest local produce and plenty of passion.

Originally from Los Angeles, Chef Douglas earned his Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu Program at the California School of Culinary Arts. Douglas then went on to work with Restauranteur, Danny Meyer of Union Square Events and racked up an impressive 10 years’ experience in a variety of roles including sous chef at the Waldorf Astoria. It has been Douglas’ mission to guide The Conrad’s unique culinary programming and lead menu development that focuses on incorporating locally-sourced, sustainable foods. ATRIO is open seven days a week and serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch on the weekend. It has become the perfect restaurant for families, couples and business guests who may be looking for a spot of sophisticated dining in the heart of Lower Manhattan. Chef Douglas’ influence can be seen (and tasted!) right through the menu from the organic breakfast bowl – with poached egg, basmati rice, red quinoa, kale, avocado, radish and tomato – to delectable dinners like the lobster pot pie starter, chili rub pork loin – served with butternut squash, endive, and red cabbage slaw – and spicy chocolate churros with vanilla marshmallows for dessert! The Conrad is also an impressive locale for meetings and events, with seven venue types and 2800m2 of event space over two floors. Spacious sophistication is offered in the Gallery Ballroom, which boasts 6-metre high ceilings, while additional ballrooms, suits and studio spaces are ideal for any board meetings, workshops, conferences and other stylish events that need to be held in Lower Manhattan. The hotel has partnered with Danny Meyer’s Union Square Events to ensure culinary excellence and events management, which means whether you’re hosting a lavish wedding, an intimate dinner or a charity event, Union Square Events will collaborate with you to create a uniquely catered event, personalised to your desires. Whether you’re a Manhattan first-timer, a business trip regular or simply an art fundi looking for a good cocktail, The Conrad is a welcoming, accommodating and unique host. With so much at your fingertips (literally), the real conundrum is actually leaving to go and experience the big city… thankfully, it never sleeps. ■