The Asbury recently opened Memorial Day weekend. A reimagining of the classic beach hotel, The Asbury feels like Asbury Park itself- spontaneous, original, and suprising, with rock ‘n’ roll energy.
The Asbury’s opening marks the next chapter in Asbury Park’s rebirth. The first new hotel in Asbury Park in more than 50 years, the 110-room property is part of the multi-billion-dollar redevelopment plan by Master Developer iStar, a ten year proposal that is being hailed as one of the most significant and ambitious redevelopment plans on the Eastern Seaboard.
To transform a long-vacant Salvation Army building into The Asbury, iStar tapped two hotel-industry titans. Anda Andrei, iStar’s creative director and design lead for the entire Asbury Park redevelopment project. Hotel innovator David Bowd, partner in and operator of the hotel, is celebrated for creating the sought-after boutique Salt Hotels brand.
The lobby, which doubles as a tomato-growing greenhouse, is a soaring public space that encourages guests to hang out; with a sunken seating pit upholstered in luxurious velvet silk on one side and bright blue bleachers on the other. A welcome desk doubles as a grab-and-go counter where guests can check in; order donuts baked-fresh locally, or score an Asbury beach towel.
“Hotels are usually structured and planned. With the Asbury, we created a place that sparks joy and spontaneity,” said Andrei, who hand-picked the architects and designers involved to realize her vision. “You can’t have a boring moment here. It’s the same spirit of fun that makes Asbury Park such a treasure.”
Collaborating with Andrei on the interior design was New York City-based firm Bonetti Kozerski Studio. Tapped to transform the derelict Salvation Army building into The Asbury was Stonehill & Taylor, known for adaptive reuse work on hotels such as Manhattan’s Ace and NoMad.
With huge variety among its beach-bungalow-inspired rooms as well, The Asbury’s got space for everyone. Groups can check into bunk rooms that accommodate up to eight people – perfect for a grownup slumber party, bachelor bash, or BFF getaway. Nearly every room boasts water or city views, from standard, superior and deluxe Queens and Kings to Family Kings with convertible sofa and ocean-facing suites.
The hotel’s done away with conventions like check-in times; whenever a guest decides to arrive, the Asbury’s team goes into action to get them a room. Also with the millennial traveler in mind, the hotel provides the option to text-communicate with The Counter for any items from the grab-and-go. This will be the Asbury’s only food and beverage option as there is no dedicated restaurant or room service—the hotel will encourage guests to patronize great local restaurants and bars.