TL;DR What makes this NYC boutique hotel special? Why should I stay here?

Industrial heritage: renovated 19th-century red-brick factory with lots of character.
Eclectic design: “industrial chic” décor — charming in spots, a bit too busy in others.
Greenpoint location: tucked in Brooklyn’s north end with a more local than Williamsburg vibe.
Comfortable stay: coziness, character & personality.
Check prices here

Henry Norman is an intimate boutique hotel up in Brooklyn’s sometimes overlooked north end.

It sits between the East River and Newtown Creek, a little peninsula with a slightly industrial vibe.

The building was a factory in the 19th century, one of those lovely red-brick numbers that’s been fully renovated.

It purports to be ‘industrial chic,’ but not really in the minimalist sense.

Indeed, it’s more industrial chic in that they’ve taken every design element from every factory in the city and spread it over the hotel.

In some areas, like the tile by the staircase, it’s super-charming. In others, it’s a bit frenetic.

Ultimately, though, we’re talking a comfortable place to stay with plenty of character, a lot like Greenpoint itself.

What are the rooms like?

50 suites: mix of studios, lofts, and penthouses — apartment-style layouts.
Character & art: local artwork, eclectic décor, high ceilings, and hardwood floors.
Penthouses: private roof decks and full kitchens in larger units.
See each room in detail here

It’s a suite-only hotel, in a way, but we’re not sure the Studio Suites aren’t just guest rooms in cool hats.

They’re basically Queen Singles with a couch and a desk jammed into the corner.

And yet, they are done up with an apartment-y vibe. You’ve got local art on the not-white walls, slightly random gold-framed mirrors, and more.

Each piece feels hand-picked, and while we’re not always on board with the taste, the personal touch is excellent.

Besides the Studios, we’re looking at Loft Suites with queen beds and pull-out sofas that sleep up to four.

Penthouses all have roof decks to die for. If you’re not on a budget, absolutely go for it. They offer studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options.

The two-bedroom option has a full kitchen and dining area.

Whatever you book, you’ll enjoy all the high ceilings and hardwood floors you want from a historic warehouse, TVs, individual climate control, and coffee & tea capabilities.

What are prices like?

> Check prices here

And what’s the food like? Any facilities we should know about?

Limited dining: small continental breakfast and minibar menu — nothing elaborate.
Sister hotels: nearby restaurants accessible via staff recommendations.
Wellness: onsite fitness center with sauna and steam room.

The Henry Norman itself isn’t leading the way in food, we have to say.

They will provide a small continental breakfast, which is fine for a light eater.

Those who ascribe to the breakfast is the most important meal of the day philosophy, however, are likely to be disappointed.

There is a small mini-bar menu, but we’re not going to muster up that much enthusiasm here.

What might be worth a look are the restaurants at the Henry Norman’s sister hotels. They will require leaving the building, but they’re not too far.

And, all you really have to do is check in with the super-capable and lovely staff. They’ll get you what you need and make you smile while doing it.

You will be able to take advantage of an on-site fitness center, which features a sauna and steam room.

How is the neighborhood? Anything interesting nearby?

Greenpoint vibe: slightly industrial, but also creative, with some nice cafés and studios.
Convenient: close to Nassau Ave, McCarren Park and Williamsburg.
Transport links: ferries to Manhattan and subway access nearby.

Greenpoint isn’t typically considered the ultimate in Brooklyn tourism (looking at you, Williamsburg), but it’s definitely worth a look.

It’s not super residential, meaning you’ll be tucked in alongside a nice variety of offices, studios, and, of course, hip little cafés.

A lot of the hot spots are along Nassau Ave, which is just a 5-minute walk from the hotel.

McCarren Park is going to be more like a 15-minute walk, and this will get you to the edge of Williamsburg.

From here, you can enjoy all the most popular attractions of good old Brooklyn.

The Bushwick Inlet or Marsha P. Johnson parks have lovely views of Manhattan.

You can catch East River Ferries all day from both Greenpoint and Williamsburg.

It’s an excellent way to get over to the other side of the city, but Nassau Ave has a subway station if you’re not much for the waterfront.

Or, stay on this side and check out the many farmers’ markets, breweries and more.

Williamsburg is also one of the best places to get in on New York’s more alternative nightlife.

And what about the reviews? What did other guests think?

Some things guests liked:

“Nice, big loft suite which accommodated my sister and I.. Clean, unique architecture. Quieter in a neighborhood (except for a few vehicles, which made loud noises). Friendly staff. Exceptional artwork….”

“Beautifully appointed “Brooklyn chic” hotel. Huge apartment-style rooms, great vibes. They have thought of everything and provide in abundance. 100% recommend….”