Freehand New York in USA – Hotel Design meets Social Structure of a Hostel

Located in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, Freehand New York was once a home to musicians, creatives and storied writers. Housed in the former George Washington Hotel, Freehand has transformed into a hotel with the social structure of a hostel.

Get ready for innovative design, award winning food and beverages and a fantastic community driven atmosphere.

The infobox on Freehand New York ⭐

From fitness classes to art workshops, cultural events and live music; there is always something fun happening at Freehand New York.

“Freehand takes its cues from the surrounding neighbourhood, with spaces that are a microcosm of the best New York City has to offer.”

Did you know? Dorm rooms are not legal in New York City.

So with that in mind, you can expect only great private rooms on offer here. Find out more of what to expect in the rooms by scrolling further.

Freehand New York is just one of 45 best hostels in USA.

It’s also part of our guide to the best hostel chains in Europe & the world.

Of course, there is so much to see and do in New York City! Need some inspiration? Check out our handy guide to 30 fun things to do in New York City + hidden bars.

It’s also worth having a look at our collection of the best hostels in New York City and why Freehand New York stands out.

Across the USA we have more 5 star hostels you just have to see:

• The Crash Pad: An Uncommon Hostel in Chattanooga
• The Bivvi Hostel in Breckenridge, Colorado

Freehand New York in Review

No doubt you’re keen to hear more about the design, unique aspect and social atmosphere around the place. Come on then, let’s step inside and have a look around.

Freehand New York is a 5 star hostel in New York, USA because…

1. Creating a Special Community

When you walk through the doors of Freehand New York, you’ll be walking in to a very special community.

Everywhere you turn, there is a unique art piece created by one of the students at a nearby college.

The social culture of a hostel has been mingled with the style and comfort of a hotel.

Awesome cues from the surrounding neighborhood have been embedded in the design and spaces.

It’s surely evident that these guys care about sustaining their local culture and people.

What we also really like is the inclusion of so much greenery, especially in the shared spaces.

2. Big Design, Big Spaces

Have you heard of Roman and Williams?

This New York-based design studio is responsible for the design of Freehand New York.

Inside you’ll find plenty of living plants, wooden furniture and a mix of modern-boutique and vintage flair.

The restaurant and lobby bar is led by acclaimed restaurateur Gabriel Stulman. And wait until you see the menu!

Remember when we mentioned that dorm rooms aren’t legal in NYC?

To make up for it, Freehand New York offers these room choices:

• Queen private
• King private
• 2-bedroom suite
• 4-bed bunk room

Note: the rooms which have bunks must be booked as a room, not by individual beds.

Every room comes with a private ensuite bathroom which is a bonus.

3. Commissioned Artwork and Design

The team at Freehand partnered up with Bard College to offer 15 lucky students commission for their original artwork.

They were given permission to brighten up the hotel’s guest rooms and public spaces.

One-of-a-kind, hand-painted murals for each of the 394 rooms were created – wow!

Walk around and you’ll spot intricate sculptures, large-scale murals and framed pieces all around the hostel.

This is certainly a unique addition to such a beautiful hostel!

4. A full monthly calendar of activities

What if we told you that Freehand New York boasts five restaurants and bars?

Or that the monthly calendar is jam packed with fun activities such as:

• Comedy shows
• Late night happy hours
• Wine up Wednesdays

You’d start to get a bit excited, right?

The thing is, there is so much to keep you entertained and full to the brim with social vibes.

Make use of the rooftop bar with both indoor and outdoor seating. The expansive city views are pretty awesome, too!

There is also a cafe, games room, 24-hour on-site fitness centre and room delivery.

To top it off, this hostel comes with its own shop. Aptly named, The Shoppe.

Part gift shop, part mini bar, part bodega; enjoy American-made cool stuff.

5. Spotless Staff

In a place as big as this, the staff team here is kept super busy and do a lot to make sure your stay is comfortable and memorable.

Though it’s less personal than other hostels, don’t let that affect you.

They’re at hand 24/7 at reception.

Some of them are cooking up a storm in the kitchen, others are keeping your room spotless.

Give them a smile – you’re in super good hands here!