Smoldering modernist hideaway in Midtown with a buzzy afterwork bar scene and a New American restaurant This Midtown property, originally designed by Philippe Starck and given a 2007 refresh by Roman and Williams, keeps its cards close to the vest. Floating gas fireplaces in the walls, sleek leather couches and positively lethal martinis make the lobby a popular after-work hangout with the publishing and media set. But during the day, if you walk past the heavy wood doors and into the cocoonlike lobby, you could easily stroll past the unassuming check-in desk and elevators. These secretive touches give the property an insidery, clubby feel, as if you need a password instead of a keycard to get into your room.