by Carrie Gross
The Marmara located on 94th Street at 2nd Avenue is an oasis of hospitality and modern amenities for those looking for a home away from home on the Upper East Side. Defined by its attention to detail, the Marmara offers guests an extended stay option with all of the amenities and comforts of a world class hotel and a cosmopolitan New York City apartment rolled into one gracious facility.
Catering to a variety of consumers, from those relocating to New York to New Yorkers who are displaced due to construction or life changing situations, the Marmara provides a sanctuary of resplendent comforts and conveniences in the much sought after residential area of the Upper East Side. “We have people who moved to Florida but like to spend the summers in New York still because their family and friends are here. We also have a large number of companies whose employees call us home during the relocation phase and transition. In fact, we have had people who wind up staying for years. They like it that much,” said General Manager, Mine Ozpinar. It’s that level of satisfaction and comfort which is visible by the repeat clientele and long-term guests of the property. “It really feels like a home here.”
The Marmara has 108 apartment units, from studios to sprawling 1450 square foot 3- bedrooms. “We offer two distinctly different types of décor,” Ozpinar said. From contemporary classic designed by Ethan Allen interiors to the minimalist modern approach by designer Tulya Madra, both genres are carefully designed with an eye for comfort, style and sophistication. The units are spacious and the large windows throughout allow for spectacular city and river views.
While some apartments boast terraces with airy vistas where guests can enjoy the breezes with their morning cup of coffee and watch the sunrise over the East River, there is an incredible penthouse outdoor common area on the top floor for all to enjoy. The wrap-around outdoor terrace is the perfect escape in the summer to catch some rays on the lounge chairs and the indoor lounge area with a ten-foot bar and catering space is perfect to host a private party in the off season as well.
All apartments feature Eat-in-Kitchens with marble floors and cabinets which are stocked with dishware, utensils and all of the appliances one would need. Though some units have their own washer/dryer, the hotel provides laundry and daily housekeeping service as well. The modern and updated bathrooms feature marble floors and counters, going as far as to offer Jacuzzi style tubs in some units. The Marmara knows home sometimes doubles for the office and provides all the necessary components to make work easier. From the wireless internet to the en-suite fax machine, each unit provides ample utilities for a productive and relaxed work environment.
On the ground floor, just beyond the fully staffed lobby lies the Marmara’s own art gallery. Though the Metropolitan Museum is a short walk from the hotel, the Marmara turned a once outdoor courtyard into an indoor gallery which hosts rotating exhibitions from established international artists. Truly unique, this breathtaking space provides a quiet reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan life. Painting and sculptures hang from the walls as the glass ceiling creates a seamless connection to the city.
As of November 6th, 2006, the Marmara will be available for short stays including one-night. So whether you are looking for a slice of Manhattan to call home for a while or you are just taking a bite from the ‘Big Apple’, the Marmara’s elegance and panache make this place home.
Balancing between luxury hotel and residence, the Marmara’s unrelenting attention to the smallest of details is clear from your first step inside. At the Marmara, all of the elements are of home are woven into the fabric of hotel living. “All you need to bring is your toothbrush,” Ozpinar said.”