Progress on VOCO Hotel Tower Nears Completion in Times Square

News Summary

Construction on the 32-story VOCO hotel tower at 711 Seventh Avenue in Times Square is advancing swiftly. The hotel, designed by Gene Kaufman Architect, will feature 422 guest rooms and significant retail space. As it approaches completion, the hotel’s unique design and strategic location are set to enhance the Times Square area, offering vibrant dining options and advertising opportunities that are projected to generate substantial revenue.

New York City — Construction is rapidly progressing on the 32-story VOCO hotel tower located at 711 Seventh Avenue, directly in Times Square. As it nears completion, the hotel, designed by Gene Kaufman Architect, is expected to significantly transform the area with its unique features and offerings.

The hotel will rise to a height of 343 feet and will encompass 422 guest rooms. It will operate under the VOCO brand, which is part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts portfolio. The property is also recognized as 170 West 48th Street, occupying a prime L-shaped parcel of land with exposure along both Seventh Avenue and West 48th Street.

Significant construction milestones have been achieved since the last progress report a year ago. The reinforced concrete superstructure is nearing its final height, while the green-tinted glass curtain wall now fully encloses the main western elevation of the building. However, scaffolding remains in place on the lower floors above the podium level, as construction work has shifted focus to the bottom two stories, which are currently exposed on the northern elevation facing West 48th Street.

Design and Features

The distinctive VOCO branding is prominently featured on the underside of the building’s cantilevering balcony at the top. Additionally, an abstract gray mural has been painted on the lot line walls surrounding the site’s low-rise corner holdout, contributing to the visual identity of the hotel.

Renderings of the project reveal plans for a vibrant podium retail space with double-height windows and a substantial billboard facing Times Square, promising to capture the attention of passersby. The hotel will also provide approximately 7,500 square feet of food and beverage options, including an indoor-outdoor rooftop bar that will offer breathtaking views of the bustling Times Square.

Advertising Opportunities and Revenue Projections

In addition to its lodging and dining options, the VOCO hotel is making arrangements for five digital advertising displays and three static billboards integrated into the L-shaped superstructure. These advertising features are anticipated to generate an estimated annual net revenue of between $1 million and $3 million for the hotel.

Project Background

The development of the VOCO hotel is a joint venture between Flintlock Construction Services and Atlas Hospitality. The project commenced after the developers secured a 99-year ground lease for the site in early 2021, which includes an option to purchase the land in twenty years.

Financing for the construction has been facilitated through a $120 million loan provided by Beach Point Capital Management, ensuring a strong financial backing for this high-profile project. With its noteworthy location, the hotel will cater to both leisure and business travelers visiting Times Square.

The nearest subway stations are conveniently located, with access to the N, R, and W trains at 49th Street on Seventh Avenue and the 1 train at 50th Street on Broadway. This added accessibility enhances the appeal of the hotel for guests arriving via public transport.

The VOCO hotel in Times Square is on track for a projected completion date in December 2025, marking an exciting addition to New York City’s famed skyline and hospitality offerings.

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Additional Resources

• New York YIMBY: VOCO Hotel Nears Completion
• Travel and Tour World: VOCO Hotel Set to Open
• Bisnow: Chetrits Sued Over Times Square Hotel
• Google Search: VOCO Hotel Times Square
• Upgraded Points: Times Square New York City Guide