Campbell Apartment

GCT Campbell 1

Campbell Apartment is a historic cocktail lounge located in Grand Central Terminal in New York City. Originally serving as the private office and reception hall of American financier John W. Campbell, the space has been transformed into a public bar and lounge, preserving much of its original grandeur and architectural details.

History[edit | edit source]

The Campbell Apartment was constructed in 1923 as part of the Grand Central Terminal complex. It was designed by architect Augustus N. Allen for John W. Campbell, a prominent financier and member of the New York Central Railroad board of directors. Campbell used the space as his private office and reception hall, where he conducted business and entertained guests.

After Campbell's death in 1957, the space fell into disrepair and was used for various purposes, including as a signalman's office and a storage room. In the late 1990s, the space was restored to its former glory by hospitality entrepreneur Mark Grossich, who reopened it as a cocktail lounge in 1999.

Architecture and Design[edit | edit source]

The Campbell Apartment is renowned for its opulent design, which includes a 25-foot hand-painted ceiling, a grand stone fireplace, and leaded glass windows. The space also features intricate woodwork, Italianate furnishings, and a bar made from a 13th-century Florentine fireplace. The restoration efforts aimed to preserve these historic elements while updating the space for modern use.

Current Use[edit | edit source]

Today, the Campbell Apartment operates as a high-end cocktail lounge, offering a range of classic and contemporary drinks. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, providing a unique glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the early 20th century.