david rockwell redesigns NYC's only revolving restaurant 'the view'

david rockwell honors and elevates a new york icon

The View, a legendary revolving restaurant and bar in NYC, has reopened its doors following a dramatic redesign by Rockwell Group. Found on the 47th and 48th floors of the New York Marriott Marquis, this historic venue has been transformed into a contemporary and nostalgic space that pays homage to its 1985 origins.

Rockwell Group’s approach to the renovation draws inspiration from The View’s storied past and its proximity to Broadway’s Theater District. The design integrates materials and textures that evoke the opulence of American supper clubs and classic chophouses, reinforcing the restaurant’s connection to its cultural surroundings.

Rich burl wood, shimmering Venetian plaster, and deep blue velvet drapery reminiscent of stage curtains set the scene for a dining experience that feels both intimate and grand. The View celebrated its re-opening on February 12th, 2025 at its original location in New York’s Theater District.

The View has reopened with a redesign by Rockwell Group | images © Jason Varney

a stage with a view

The View’s signature feature, its revolving floors, presented a unique challenge and opportunity for Rockwell Group during its redesign of the NYC restaurant. To exaggerate the sense of movement, the design team led by David Rockwell introduced overlapping concentric circles on the ceiling, mirroring the rotation of the restaurant below.

Inspired by the ceaseless energy of Times Square, these forms reflect the flow of people, cars, and lights on the streets beneath. Two types of metallic paint, one matte and one reflective, add a luminous depth, making the ceiling itself feel as if it shifts along with the restaurant’s slow revolution.

Rockwell Group conceptualized The View’s interior as both a stage and a viewing platform. Faceted antique mirrors amplify the sense of space, while a layering of textures and reflective surfaces captures and refracts light in dynamic ways. The venue’s division into two levels allows guests to choose between an elevated cocktail lounge experience on the 48th floor or a full dining experience below, both with uninterrupted 360-degree views of the city skyline.

antique mirrors and reflective surfaces amplify light and create a dynamic atmosphere

the modern and nostalgic restaurant

The View’s interior design by Rockwell Group channels a retro NYC sensibility while embracing contemporary restaurant design elements. The plush banquettes, intimate lighting, and vintage-inspired finishes create an inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to linger. Nightly live piano performances further enhance the timeless ambiance, further demonstrating Rockwell Group’s aim to create a space that feels like a rediscovered classic rather than a brand-new restaurant.

With the main dining floor completing a full rotation every hour and the upper lounge turning every 45 minutes, The View remains a singular destination that celebrates the city from every angle. Rockwell Group’s elevated renovation means that this beloved NYC institution continues to bring its cinematic and intimate experience to New York’s theater district. The ever-changing tableau of the city below is now framed by contemporary interiors that pays tribute to the past.

‘The View’s mission is simple: to capture the lively energy of Broadway’s Theater District showcasing a familiar American menu whose dishes are even better than you ever knew they could be,’ says USHG Founder and Executive Chairman Danny Meyer. ‘It’s your new ‘night out on the town’ where the floor just happens to rotate.’

the design draws inspiration from American supper clubs and classic chophouses