A Gem in the City 

A Gem in the City
The recently renovated Faculty House, on Columbia University’s campus, is a little slice of venue heaven in the concrete jungle of New York City.

By Brittny Drye

Walking along the column-copious quad of New York’s Ivy League campus will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to a quondam era, where aristocracy reigned and cocktail hour began daily at 4 p.m., as opposed to the modern-day bustle of New York’s Upper West Side. Nestled on the eastern portion of Columbia University’s campus, Faculty House is a 1920s landmark, and has played host to countless weddings. Noted as one of the premier venues in New York City, it underwent a comprehensive restoration in 2009, merging 21st-century technology and amenities with Ivy League charm, earning it the Leed Gold Certification in 2010 from the U.S. Green Building Council for its eco-friendly efforts.

Led by Lisa Hogarty, the renovation added in key elements such as audio-visual capabilities, clean air cooling systems, and low-energy lighting, while still maintaining historic details such as the marble and wrought-iron stairwell and iron doors.

With the likes of St. Paul’s Church and St. John the Divine’s Cathedral as its neighbors, the Faculty House is the perfect pick for a wedding reception. Rented out either by floor or in its entirety, each of the four levels has its own distinct charm. As guests pass through the landscaped courtyard, they enter the garden-level reception area which boasts original terrazzo flooring, a cascading marble staircase, and its very own art gallery with a rotating art exhibition by LeRoy Neiman Center for Print Studies. The first and second floors are favored for business events while the third and fourth are designed for larger, formal affairs. The third floor, the Presidential Level, can accommodate up to 260 guests for dinner and dancing, but it’s the Skyline Level on the top floor that is the main attraction. Guests can dance the night away underneath a vaulted ceiling and arched windows that overlook the outdoor terrace and Manhattan’s sweeping skyline.

Executive Chef Uwe Toedter, formerly of the prestigious Hilton Hotel, leads the culinary operation. The culinary team prepares an array of international cuisines made from organic ingredients, with a variety of catering options from which to choose. Individual tastes and themes can be accommodated extending from reception stations to full service plated dinners. Wedding cakes are provided by Ron Ben-Israel, well-known around town as the “Manolo Blahnik of cakes.” His lifelike confectionery couture is always one-of-a-kind bursting with flavors that melt in your mouth. For those with a super sweet tooth, the Faculty House also provides chocolate fountains.

Attentive staff, great food and unparalleled ambiance are what give Faculty House its reputation of prestige. It is truly a timeless oasis in an ever-changing world.