Mondrian

Built as an apartment block in the 1950s, this tower was converted into a hotel by businessman Ian Schrager and designer Philippe Starck in the mid-’90s and immediately became the hottest spot in the city. It still carries a certain amount of star quality, though its since undergone a pair of redesigns. Funky additions to the rooms include Alice in Wonderland-inspired touches, combined mirror/TV showpieces and marble bathrooms. Elsewhere in the hotel, Skybar still draws a starry crowd.