The citizenM Bowery Hotel in NYC

New York City is no stranger to small, compact hotel rooms, so the idea of a modular space like citizenM hotel in the Bowery was very intriguing to us. This small space packs a lot into 150 square feet, and the hotel’s common areas add extra space and functionality for just about any traveler’s needs. I share our stay, what to expect in a modular hotel room, and more about this hotel’s unique amenities, and, most importantly, who this type of hotel is perfect for.

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The Modular Hotel Room at citizenM Bowery

When the citizenM Bowery hotel opened in late 2018, it was the tallest modular hotel in the world, coming in at 21 stories. The hotel boasts ultra-efficient, smart design, and, due to the nature of the prefab-built container rooms, guests can expect better internal soundproofing, as there is more space between shared walls. Each of the 300 rooms is identical in size and design, and while small, storage and functionality seem to have been given great consideration in the design of the space.

Let me walk you through the space, and then I’ll tell you more about what we thought about it.

When you walk into the space, you’ll see large hooks and a full-length mirror at the entrance with an open-space closet on the other side. Ahead, you’ll see the sink and vanity area, which has ample countertop space for your toiletries, with open shelving below the sink where you’ll find towels, a blow dryer, a mini fridge, and space to store items as needed. Find a longer cushioned bench between the sink and the bed.

Across from the sink, you will see a frosted glass-style curved bump-out that serves as the bathroom, where you’ll find the enclosed toilet and shower space. Continue walking in, and you’ll see a small desk area with plenty of room for laptops or just to lay out your luggage. You’ll also find an iPad in each room, used to control digital amenities such as the TV, room mood lighting, and blackout curtains.

Then you’ll see the room’s centerpiece – the bed! Pushed up against the massive room window is a king-size mattress, bookended by the room’s walls. Yep, the room is that narrow. The bed is raised above a large storage drawer and a smaller drawer with a safe inside. There is a narrow shelf under the wall-mounted TV, and small lamps above the pillow side for reading or working in bed.

So, what do we think?

First, I will say that this room is NOT for everyone. You heard me describe how small and compact it is, imagine experiencing that with whoever you intend to room with. You need to share a bed, the bathroom is right in the middle of the room (your roomie will hear you), and the space is tight. So, who do I think this room is good for?

Solo travelers, couples who are comfortable in tight spaces together, and people who plan to spend more time exploring and less time lounging in their rooms.

citizenM Bowery Room Pros:

Amazing window views of the city
Comfortable bed
Blackout curtains keep your room perfectly dark until you’re ready for the sun.
The mood lighting is so much fun! Change your room’s mood to any color you want.
While small, the storage space is ample. We did not feel crowded.

citizenM Bowery Room Cons:

It is small, so you need to be very comfortable with your chosen roommate.
The toilet is near the shower, and water from the shower can spill onto the toilet area. Wet feet when you need to use the bathroom isn’t the best feeling.
The hotel is near a major intersection, and guests in lower rooms have said they can hear street noise.

Our overall thoughts on the room: We loved how they used the small space, found the bed very comfortable, enjoyed the mood lighting, and adored the incredible city views from our massive window. All in all, we would stay again if the pricing is right during our visit, and we plan to spend most of our time in that area.

Book your room today: citizenM Bowery

Interior At CitizenM Bowery Hotel

The interior living space is perfect for socializing, relaxing, and getting a bite to eat or drink. You’ll be surrounded by bright artwork, cafes, and unique and comfortable seating. It’s the perfect space if you want to get out of your room or socialize.

Staying in the area? Check out my post on things to do in Nolita, a cool New York City neighborhood near the citizenM Bowery Hotel.

Museum of Street Art (MoSa)

An unexpected and unique amenity at citizenM Bowery is the Museum of Street Art, a 20-story immersive graffiti installation located in the hotel’s stairwell. It’s considered a love letter to Manhattan’s Lower East Side, curated by Marie Cecile Flaguel and filled with work by the 5Pointz Creates collective.

I recommend going to the rooftop bar for a drink and a view, then making your way down the stairwell to admire the art. You can always take the elevator back to your floor once you’ve finished viewing. Read more about the museum in this Forbes article.

How to Visit:
Check out their Instagram

No large bags are permitted, and you’ll need a valid ID to access hotel elevators.
Admission is free; just check in at the front desk.
Check with the hotel for specific hours.

citizenM Bowery Exterior View

The exterior of citizenM is tall and sleek. As you get closer, the artsy side of the hotel starts to shine. There’s also a rooftop bar open to the public with amazing views of the NYC skyline.

What to Know about CitizenM Bowery Hotel

citizenM address: 189 Bowery, New York, NY 10002

As mentioned above, this isn’t the kind of hotel you stay at with the family or someone you’re not super close with. It’s a small space at 150 square feet, but they pack in the style and make great use of it.

Amenities

Offsite parking
On-site bar and restaurant
Daily housekeeping
Fitness center
Free WIFI

Dining & Drinks
citizenM has a ground-level restaurant called canteenM and a rooftop bar called cloudM. Room service is not offered. Buffet breakfast is available for a fee.

Book your room today: citizenM Bowery

Would you stay at this hotel?
Let me know if you plan to stay here or have and what you thought!

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