NEW YORK—RXR Realty and Airbnb have partnered to convert portions of NYC commercial properties into a new category of urban lodging, made available exclusively through the Airbnb platform. Guests will be supported by a digitally enabled, dedicated concierge service staffed by local and knowledgeable “hosts” who will provide guests with a personalized experience that allows them to access and navigate the city like a local New Yorker.
“With the lines between business travel and leisure travel becoming increasingly blurred, RXR and Airbnb are offering a travel experience that immerses guests in a dynamic, thriving community in the heart of Rockefeller Center that’s vastly different than anything else in the market today. We’re proud to partner with one of the most innovative companies in the world to provide a unique and authentic travel experience unlike any other in New York City,” said Scott Rechler, chairman/CEO, RXR Realty.
“When we launched Airbnb over 10 years ago, it was immediately clear how people opening their homes could make guests feel like locals. With this new partnership with RXR, we hope to provide that same unique feeling, in the form of new spaces in the heart of Midtown Manhattan and elsewhere so that everyone can enjoy an authentic New York experience. We are so proud to work with RXR to offer magical travel through this new program,” said Brian Chesky, co-founder/CEO/head of community.
The first incarnation of this partnership is planned for 75 Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan. RXR and Airbnb are also exploring collaboration at other RXR properties, such as RXR’s 47 Hall St. project across from the Brooklyn Navy Yard in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.
RXR will be responsible for the execution and operation of the locations. Guests will find these new spaces exclusively through Airbnb’s global platform. The two companies will collaborate on room and building design; the development of a people-powered concierge model; the curation of local experiences, services and amenities; and innovations in technologies and processes for the local/global traveler.
The RXR/Airbnb new urban hospitality product will be consistent with and supportive of the relevant operating regulations and standards of the men and women of organized labor, including the New York Hotel Trades Council and SEIU 32BJ, according to the companies.
Completion of these projects remain subject to finalization of definitive documentation and obtaining requisite approvals.
Occupying 10 floors, the new space will offer guests high-end apartment-style suites with a diverse mix of amenities:
- Check-in/check-out services, tech-enabled access, security systems and customer service in the lobby that connects 51st and 52nd Streets
- Access to a private social club and business center located on the building’s top floor. Amenities include a range of culinary experiences, cultural programming, meeting and event space, collaborative working areas and common areas
- Access to a new, ground-floor restaurant and bar adjacent to the lobby
Individually curated and custom-designed hotel suites within the space will be designed to feel like apartment-style suites, complete with fully stocked kitchens. In addition to containing technology, this space has views of Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Empire State Building. The Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink and Christmas Tree, MoMa and Central Park are also nearby.
