Introduction

Introduction

New York City is a place where your favorite café is actually the dining room you don’t have. The crowded subway transforms into a therapist's office where you can quietly cry in peace. Hotel lobbies can serve as ideal workspaces, though not all of them are suited for checking emails or attending a meeting that was meant to be dinner, then drinks, and ultimately turns into a coffee date that still needs to feel “exciting.”

With a few years of remote work experience under my belt, I’ve compiled a list of hotel lobbies that offer a sense of privacy, cozy sofas, stable Wi-Fi, and just the right level of background noise so you can think clearly. Combining these elements isn’t easy, as many hotels often turn their lobbies into lively dating spots or after-work hangouts.

The Golden Rules for Working in Hotel Lobbies

The staff at the spots on this list are friendly and aware that not everyone is just a guest here, but there are still some unspoken rules: First, order something—be it an espresso, a snack, or a cocktail—every hour you’re there, and don’t forget to tip like you would at a restaurant. Second, avoid making long phone calls, especially Zoom meetings. Lastly, accept your “fate” in the roulette of power outlets and don’t disturb other guests with your phone charging needs.

Ace Hotel, Brooklyn

The lobby of Ace Hotel in Brooklyn is chic and has comfy seating that encourages you to stay for a while. Many love this space for its combination of comfort and style. If you need to focus, bring your headphones and find a spot at the communal table with power outlets and reading lamps; the Wi-Fi here is fast and reliable.

The café also serves an above-average cold brew. The lounge next to the lobby is perfect for making calls without disturbing others, but the atmosphere tends to lean more towards socializing than working, making it better suited for coffee meetings.

The Marlton

The fireplace at The Marlton is the main attraction, and it’s best enjoyed from one of the cozy leather chairs. Despite its decades of history and renovations, The Marlton’s lobby remains one of the best spots in the city to find a little focus. The fireplace creates a warm ambiance, complemented by the plush leather chairs and cozy nooks perfect for enjoying a cappuccino.

Due to the limited space in Greenwich Village, if you want to type on a marble table, be prepared to share with another guest. Notably, the lobby is conveniently located near Washington Square Park, ideal if you need to take a stroll to clear your mind.

The Bowery Hotel

The lobby of The Bowery Hotel feels more like a wealthy uncle’s personal library than a hotel lobby. With its dark wooden ceilings and numerous cozy fireplaces, the atmosphere here is serene and quiet, making it more suitable for personal visits than meetings.

Many tables in the lobby are reserved for guests during busy hours, but there are also plenty of open tables for those who need some time to treat themselves to a delicious bowl of Ribollita soup while checking emails.

Swan Room at Nine Orchard

While not technically a lobby, the Swan Room at Nine Orchard is located just outside the reception desk and serves as the hotel’s main meeting space. With plenty of banquet seating and small tables for two, the Swan Room is truly a peaceful spot in the Lower East Side.

The vaulted ceiling, preserved from its previous incarnation as a bank, along with striking floral arrangements and luxurious furnishings, all contribute to an inviting atmosphere for interesting conversations before diving into work. In the afternoon, the tranquil space transforms into a bustling hub with tempting snacks and an extensive wine list.

The Hoxton, Williamsburg

The lobby at The Hoxton Williamsburg is filled with natural light, providing an inspiring environment for work. It’s also conveniently close to the famous pastries and egg bagels at K’Far, the first and only Philadelphia outpost in New York.

The space features numerous tables for two, a few sofas and armchairs, along with a communal table that quickly fills up with solo workers. If you arrive later in the day, transitioning from work to enjoying drinks on the rooftop at Laser Wolf is seamless.