Hotel AKA NoMad

The place

A historic red brick building in Midtown Manhattan, turned inward. Lissoni Architecture set the tone — Scandinavian lines, Japanese restraint — in a soaring lobby of earthy tones, low light, and bronze.

The 178 rooms and suites are lighter, and exact: Living Divani furnishings, Porro Shin beds, Fantini fixtures, bathrooms in ceramic tile and limestone.

A mezzanine lounge serves a light European breakfast each morning. Later, A-Lounge & Bar pours innovative cocktails beside small plates. A compact fitness center sits within; the rest of Manhattan waits at the door.