For generations, the Waldorf Astoria has stood as a pinnacle of New York elegance—an icon where craftsmanship, design, and history converge. During the hotel’s extensive eight-year restoration, Olde Good Things had the rare opportunity to salvage architectural details and antiques that once animated its storied interiors. From marble mantels to bronze hardware, these pieces carry with them the legacy of the designers, artisans, and visionaries who shaped the landmark.
Now, as the Waldorf reopens its doors on September 1, returning to its original 1931 grandeur, we invite architects, designers, and collectors to reimagine these salvaged elements in new spaces—continuing the story of one of New York’s most celebrated buildings.
If our salvage pieces could talk, they would relate a tale of social and cultural significance and the finest enduring craftsmanship, all of which you can incorporate into your design to create a visual storyline.
From royalty to Hollywood celebrity, world leader to scientific genius, the Waldorf has played host to an assortment of characters and relevant historic and cultural happenings … i.e. two famous pre- Cold War speeches by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the first Tony Awards ceremony, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremonies for music legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Stevie Wonder. The Waldorf Astoria was also the unofficial preferred event and hotel host for the United Nations in exchange for the hotel’s pledge to “welcome all guests regardless of colour.”
Here are a few pieces waiting to usher in more special gatherings.
Waldorf Astoria Marble and Wooden Mantels
Our Waldorf salvage preserved treasures – marble and wooden mantels from the Cole Porter Suite and doors from the Marilyn Monroe Suite, 3,500 light fixtures from the suites and hallways, chandeliers from the Starlight Room, irreplaceable architectural elements – bear a quality and character increasingly rare in contemporary design.
OGT salvaged over 230 mantels from the Waldorf in total. Carved marble and wooden mantels from the Art Deco landmark feature styles including Georgian, Louis XVI, French Regency, and English Regency. You can view some of our remaining Waldorf mantels in the exquisitely crafted Waldorf mantel collection.
A marble mantel adds value to a home or venue and creates a warm, atmospheric centerpiece. These sleek and textured Waldorf Astoria pieces bring sophistication paired with a homelike comfort to any design style.
Remarkable Waldorf Astoria Gifts
Gifting an astonishing piece of history from the Waldorf Astoria is a unique way to show appreciation, convey affection, or share something significant with a fellow connoisseur of history and quality.
OGT offers a variety of gift choices in our remaining Waldorf collection – flatware, hardware, ornate decor – all finely-made and emblematic of Waldorf Astoria quality. There is an opportunity to find creative uses for many of these pieces.
See how another aficionado of fine craftsmanship found a unique treasure in the Olde Good Things’ Waldorf Astoria collection in this Instagram review of a gifted recessed window lift.
Favorite Waldorf Astoria Salvage Pieces
Here’s what we loved from our Waldorf Astoria salvage job, and how they bring a distinctive touch to your design.
Waldorf Astoria Chrome Ornate Doorbell with Black Button
These chrome doorbells were used outside hundreds of suites. Inquire about the limited quantity of white variations. Rewire for use in home or commercial design for an elegant piece of history to welcome guests. We also have a limited selection of custom-crafted Waldorf doorbell covers with ornate silver-plated detailing for decorative flair. View online
Waldorf Astoria Bathroom Nickel & Glass Art Deco Towel Bar
A high-quality brass bar bracket, nickel-plated, with a glass bar is ready to install in your design to bring a distinctive edge to residential, commercial, or guest house bathroom design. View online
Waldorf Astoria Bronze Curtain Tie Back Wall Hook
Waldorf bronze curtain tiebacks can be attached to curtain dressings or used as hooks. These pieces are a way to personalize your space while preserving the glamour of 1900s New York. View online.
Waldorf Astoria Russell & Erwin Bronze Door Knob Set
These stunning door knobs were acquired from a dealer prior to the 2017-18 renovations. Shown with reproduction rosettes, the original 1931 Waldorf Astoria two-fold oval bronze door knobs were designed specifically for the Waldorf Astoria NYC. We can help you pair with the perfect antique back plates and rosettes to match your style. We also have tips on how to adapt antique hardware to modern doors. View online
Each piece shown includes a Waldorf Astoria authenticity card. Contact our experts at OGT to inquire about these pieces and possible matching fixtures to complete your design.
