Review: Lafayette House

How did it strike you on arrival?
Lafayette House is the ultimate hotel for people who don't want to stay in a typical hotel. This four-story, 1848 brownstone has just 15 rooms, with no check-in desk or formal lobby to speak of. Guests are given their own front door key and come and go as they would with their own apartment. It's the most residential hotel experience you'll probably ever have.

Nice. What’s the crowd like?
Discreet, well-to-do travelers who don't want or need a see-and-be-seen situation.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
Rooms are filled with high-quality antiques, from the desk lamps to the Oriental rugs and gilded mirrors. It feels luxurious but not stuffy, like an updated, more laid back version of a Gilded Age guest quarters. It is extremely private and quiet.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Big, comfy beds with 500-thread-count sheets.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?
Fireplaces in every room are a godsend on chilly winter evenings.

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Spacious bathrooms have dark wood floors and white tiling, with C.O. Bigelow products.

Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
Fast and free Wi-Fi.

Room service: Worth it?
While Lafayette House has no restaurant, you can order from nearby restaurants via Seamless (just like at home).

Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
There's a lovely outdoor garden and rooftop terrace. Otherwise, there's little in the way of amenities, due to its residential nature.

What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?
Using your very own key to let yourself into this four-story townhouse and entering your beautiful room is an experience you can't have anywhere else in New York City (unless you actually buy and decorate your own!).

Bottom line: worth it, and why?
Because staying here is like having your very own, beautifully designed New York City brownstone in the heart of downtown Manhattan.