Museum of the City of New York
It's a pity that I don't get to go to Central Park East often, so I don't get to check out venues in that area. When I do, I find gems like the Museum of the City of New York where the exterior has such a commanding presence that I know I'm in for a treat. Founded by Henry Collins Brown in 1923, this venue is a history and art museum used to present the history of New York City. Its neo-Georgian style was designed Joseph H. Freedlander. And its location just happens to face Central Park.
The elegant lobby of the museum is also called the Rotunda. Here, a bar is set up between two pillars. It's a perfect location for the bar because everyone will see the backdrop of the floating staircase and hanging lights, which gives the room a very airy and spacious feel. The hanging lights give it a star-like shimmer that compliments the room.
To show the Rotunda in another perspective, here's a view from the staircase looking down at the bar.
The floating staircase leads to the second floor into the Marble Court. All in white, this elegant room can seat 150 for dinner. The three, floor-to-ceiling French doors open to a small balcony that overlooks the entrance of the museum, with views of Central Park.
Image from www.mcny.org
Also located on the second floor is the Fifth Avenue Terrace. This is an intimate outdoor space that can be tented or set up for a reception or lounge. It can accommodate dinner for 350 people or a cocktail reception for 450. If you check out the MCNY web site, you'll find some beautiful suggestions of how to use this space or any of the other spaces available for rent.
For more formal business presentations, the musuem also has Ronay Menshal Hall, a theater-style room with built-in stage. However, the chairs are removable for other types of seating.
At this event, we got to see various tablescape ideas by Party Rental Ltd. It certainly gave me some ideas for some of my corporate dinners. Flowers were provided by Mixed Greens Event Designs. Here are a few, close up:
This venue is classy, I know top level executives and board members would love it. I would start an event with a reception in the Rotanda, followed by a seated dinner in the Marble Court. I would also add some live music for ambiance - perhaps a trio of jazz musicians. Of course, I could also see a few weddings held here.
There are more spaces available for rent, such as the North and South Terraces in front of the building. These would be great for a cocktail reception or even some dancing! For more information about the Museum of the City of New York and all its available spaces, visit their website at:
And be sure to view their Event Brochure!
~T~
