Maybe my favourite NYC hotel
I love this place. I've stayed here on three separate occasions. As far as I know, it was the first hotel with floor to ceiling windows, and hardly any solid walls. The design is very minimal and striped back.
Reception is on the first floor, so take the lift.
The staff are very 'New York' - low on smiles, and with the air of high end fashion boutique sales assistants. Very good looking though.
The beds are the best I have ever slept in (Tempur-Pedic King size). You literally fall asleep the second your head hits the pillow. 
The breakfast buffet used to be free, but the last time I stayed, they had introduced a nominal fee. But it's plentiful and the coffee is strong.  Also, the turndown service used to leave warm brownies by your bedside, but that didn't happen the last time I was there. 
The gym is very small, in a windowless room, but I found that often I had it to myself.
The lobby bar scene is noisy and young. There used to be a nightclub on the roof which felt like something out of American Pie - hot tubs and all. The hotel guest bar is situated just above the lobby, so you can still feel part of it, while keeping a slight distance.
The last time I stayed, there was a mix up with the number of days I'd booked. I usually ask for a room with a balcony and uptown view. The compromise was being offered, at the same rate, one of their signature suites. The room was bigger than my entire flat in London. The sweeping panoramic view made me gasp out loud. Oh, and in the bathroom was a 4 person sauna, done out in black tiles. I never did find out what the actual rate should have been, but I can't wait for them to make another mix up.
The whole Lower East Side has been gentrified, and there is now a wide choice of places to stay. But for me, this place is special.