Best New York City Spots for Design Enthusiasts

New York City, a bustling metropolis, is more than just a concrete jungle. It’s a vibrant tapestry of art, culture, and design. With its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class museums, NYC offers something for everyone. For design enthusiasts, the city is a treasure trove of inspiration. From high-end boutiques to historic landmarks, there’s no shortage of stylish New York City spots to explore.

This guide captures the spirit of New York City’s design scene, spotlighting top spots to stay, dine, shop, and explore—each rich with creative details and local flair.

Where to Stay in Style

Each neighborhood in New York City brings a unique flavor to its accommodations, showcasing design that ranges from classic to ultra-modern. Here are some top spots to consider:

1. The Surrey

Located on the Upper East Side, The Surrey stands out as a luxurious yet low-profile destination designed to feel like a grand townhouse. Designer Lauren Rottet’s vision brings artful touches and modern luxury to the historic building originally constructed in 1926. This New York City spot combines luxury with comfort and places guests just steps from Central Park, offering an authentic experience of the city without the typical tourist trappings.

2. Ink 48 Hotel

Instagram | ink48hotel | Ink 48 offers stunning Hudson River views and a rooftop bar, The Press Lounge, perfect for skyline-gazing cocktails.

Hell’s Kitchen offers Ink 48 Hotel, a former 1930s printing factory transformed into an upscale, modern hotel. Known for its industrial flair and unbeatable rooftop views of the Hudson River, Ink 48 is also home to The Press Lounge, a top-notch spot for cocktails that lets you gaze at the Manhattan skyline. Designer Anthony Dunning, a frequent guest, recommends their unique “Aren’t You Cuke” cocktail—a refreshing option after a day of city exploration.

3. The Bowery Hotel

The Bowery Hotel combines rustic design elements with luxury, creating a cozy yet upscale atmosphere. Known for its signature industrial windows and marble baths, this hotel’s charm lies in the carefully chosen decor, including hardwood floors, velvet drapes, and handcrafted rugs. The Bowery’s location in Lower Manhattan also makes it a convenient choice for nightlife, art galleries, and boutique shopping.

Where to Dine and Sip

With an ever-evolving culinary scene, New York City spots for dining are as diverse as the city itself, each neighborhood presenting distinctive flavors and atmospheres. Here are some must-visit eateries and cafes for design and food lovers alike:

1. Palette at Bergdorf Goodman

Located within the iconic Bergdorf Goodman department store, Palette is a chic new cafe conceptualized by designer Kit Kemp. Here, guests can enjoy plant-based cuisine amidst Kemp’s bold, pattern-filled interiors, a refreshing twist on traditional department store cafes. The colorful decor and inspired menu make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

2. Primrose Café

Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill neighborhood is home to Primrose Café, a laid-back spot known for its welcoming ambiance. This cafe, with its inviting outdoor patio, is a favorite among locals and designers alike. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy quality coffee, fresh bagels, and house-made pastries while soaking in Brooklyn’s neighborhood charm.

3. Hutaoli Music Restaurant & Bar

Instagram | shandz06 | Hutaoli offers a unique dining experience with live music and delicious food.

Located near the Empire State Building, Hutaoli offers a memorable fusion of Chinese cuisine and live music. While it may look unassuming from the outside, inside, the restaurant is lively and offers a menu that includes standout items like roast chicken, all accompanied by an ambient musical backdrop.

4. La Mercerie

La Mercerie, located within Roman and Williams Guild, serves classic French dishes in a beautifully designed space. Known for its refined decor and delightful menu, La Mercerie doubles as a showroom, letting guests shop the tableware used during their meal. It’s a rare chance to take a piece of the experience home with you.

Shopping Destinations for the Design-Inclined

From high-end boutiques to vintage treasures, New York City spots for shopping cater to every style preference. Here are some standout locations where design enthusiasts can find unique pieces for their homes or personal collections.

1. Roman and Williams Guild

Roman and Williams Guild stands out as an all-in-one destination, combining a cafe, bookstore, and furniture showroom. Designers Stephen Alesch and Robin Standefer have curated an inspiring selection of home decor and art, making this spot a must-visit for design enthusiasts.

2. Vintage Shopping on Atlantic Avenue

For a vintage shopping experience in Brooklyn, Atlantic Avenue is a haven of unique finds. Designer Delia Kenza recommends Horseman Antiques, a multi-floor wonderland packed with furniture, sculptures, lighting, and more. For more rare and artistic pieces, Collier West offers an impressive selection of chandeliers, rugs, and jewelry.

3. Blue Tree

Opened by actress Phoebe Cates Kline, Blue Tree is a shop known for its eclectic and thoughtfully curated items. The store features everything from women’s clothing and accessories to unique home goods sourced from around the world. Designer Amy Lau calls it “one-of-a-kind,” a spot where creativity and quality go hand in hand.

4. Maison Gerard

Maison Gerard on East 10th Street blends a store with a gallery, showcasing pieces that span Art Deco to contemporary styles. For design enthusiasts, this space offers a rotating selection of furniture, lighting, and ceramics, each item curated to highlight its artistic significance.

Cultural Spots to Explore

Beyond dining and shopping, New York City offers countless attractions that highlight its artistic and cultural heritage. These spots provide an immersive experience for visitors interested in design, history, and nature.

1. Merchant’s House Museum

Instagram | merchantshouse | The Merchant’s House Museum in NoHo offers a glimpse into 19th-century New York life.

The Merchant’s House Museum in Noho, dating back to 1832, offers a glimpse into life in early 19th-century New York. The home’s historic furnishings and original architecture allow guests to journey into a world of Greek Revival design. Tours of the Tredwell family’s residence provide insight into New York’s social history, making it an enriching stop for history enthusiasts.

2. New York Botanical Garden

The New York Botanical Garden is a green sanctuary within the urban sprawl, with seasonal events and exhibits that bring nature to the forefront. From the orchid show in winter to summer flower displays, the garden offers something for every season, making it one of the top New York City spots to unwind and appreciate natural beauty.

3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, holds a place in the heart of New York’s cultural landscape. Known for its world-class exhibitions and iconic role in popular culture, the Met is an essential stop for art and design lovers. Designer Alyssa Kapito highlights the museum’s ancient wing as a serene space that lets visitors experience the art of past civilizations.

For architecture and design enthusiasts, New York City also offers treasures like the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, and walking tours through historic neighborhoods such as Brooklyn Heights and the West Village.

New York City’s ever-evolving landscape continues to draw design aficionados from around the world. Each corner of the city—from its storied museums to its vintage shops—holds something unexpected. For those with an eye for creativity, these spots offer an unforgettable experience, leaving visitors inspired and eager to return.