First Look: The New Hudson Whaler Hotel

Hudson’s newest boutique hotel pays homage to the city’s rich history as a shipping and whaling port. Inspired by the nautical and artistic influences of the local community, the new Hudson Whaler Hotel, standing at 542 Warren St., exudes a sense of ease and refinement, and is a welcome addition to our community’s lodging options.

“We want guests to experience a warm and welcome step back in time, with modern amenities,” said Michael Glickman, the hotel’s co-owner. “We restored the building’s original handcrafted staircase, banisters and paneling and then matched the entire lobby with period specific paneling, flooring and decor. The suites showcase a light nautical theme paired with the kinds of contemporary hotel comforts that today’s travelers seek.”

The building was reimagined by New York-based Harry Heissmann and reflects an overarching commitment to showcasing original details, as well as the work of local artists and craftspeople. “Hudson is a beautiful and close-knit community,” said Hudson Whaler co-owner, Ben Rinzler. “We hire and source locally whenever possible to support our neighbors. Showcasing local artisans also brings to life the true character of Hudson within the walls of The Hudson Whaler.” 

The lobby evokes the quarters of a ship captain— visitors are greeted with a display of ornate woodwork, including an original handcrafted, three-level staircase and an elegant custom fireplace created by a master carpenter as the focal point. The staircase sets the color palette for the moody space with rich chocolatey brown tones to reflect a sophisticated, lived-in antique look, while playing on the luster of the woodwork. 

A detailed mural of the Hudson River from Manhattan all the way north to Hudson by illustrator and decorative painter Ron Genereux adorns the lobby walls, perfectly juxtaposed against the walls’ wood paneling. Overhead, vintage Italian crystal chandeliers sourced from Hudson’s own Ida’s Eye compliment other decorative pieces. Custom wallpaper with whaling ship motifs was created to add details to the lobby’s powder rooms, and lobby seating areas are arranged in individual nooks to offer secluded spaces for visitors to retreat to. The hotel’s rear outdoor courtyard provides the ideal location to gather with friends, or to host an intimate wedding reception or other event.

The level of attention to detail and the commitment to supporting the local business community naturally extends to the guestrooms, too. Upon opening the door to one of the property’s 16 suites, guests are welcomed to a bright space dressed in soothing light-nautical tones of navy and white. Large windows that allow the natural light to filter through are donned in custom fabrics to compliment the chic custom carpeting below. With the intention to create a cozy respite, suites feature fireplaces with custom-designed whaling wallpaper above the mantels.

An array of in-room amenities includes a thoughtfully curated refrigerator stocked with locally sourced beverages and snacks.  Each evening guests will return to their rooms to find a handmade chocolate whale atop their pillow, courtesy of the chocolatiers at Vasilow’s Confectionery. 

When asked about the impact he hopes his newest project will have on the Hudson community, Glickman had this to say: “The town has transformed over the last several years and The Hudson Whaler is a perfect example of how a building or business can breathe new life in Hudson. Visitors and locals alike have become more discerning with their expectations of accommodations, restaurants and shops – The Hudson Whaler will not disappoint those looking for refinement in the town.”