The neighborhood bistro concept Henry at Life Hotel has debuted within the historic New York hotel. Designed by locally based Tara Oxley, the 60-seat restaurant draws inspiration from the building’s history as the former headquarters for LIFE magazine.
Exuding a warm, modern ambiance, the intimate eatery is furnished with copper and brass-topped tables that complement elegant seating and wood paneling along the walls. Leaded, mirrored inserts juxtapose eclectic artwork that spans an array of media. Lighting includes antique brass sconces, intimate votives, and an exposed light fixture reminiscent of an original computer motherboard.
The space—once rumored to be a clandestine watering hole for magazine editors during Prohibition—further evokes the building’s heritage with original craftsmanship via oak panels. Elements like plush banquettes and an oversized, L-shaped bar offset the more refined details of the restaurant.
