Source: The New York Palace

NEW YORK – World-renowned jeweler, Martin Katz, was honored with the 2014 International Hotel, Motel and Restaurant Show (IHMRS) Gold Key Award for Excellence in Hospitality Design for "Best Suite" for his eponymously named Jewel Suite at the famed New York Palace Hotel. The hotel selected Mr. Katz to combine creative forces with the HOK team to design the specialty 5,000-plus-square-foot suite as part of the hotel's recent $140 million renovation. Mr. Katz was presented the award at the 34th Annual Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design Gala and was recognized for creating one of the world's most imaginative and extraordinary spaces in the luxury "Hotel Suite" category.

Mr. Katz worked with his wife, muse, and Creative Director Kelly Fisher Katz along with the team at HOK to create the feeling of living in a jewelry box amongst his world famous jewels. The suite has three breathtaking levels including a Grand Reception Foyer, "The Diamond Boudoir Sitting Room", a Master Suite, Guest Suite, Living Room, Dining Room, Entertainment Lounge, and a private Roof-Top Terrace and garden with an elevated spa for one-of-a-kind viewing of Manhattan's skyline. Mr. Katz's personal touches can be found throughout the space; a stunning 20-foot 'Waterfall of Diamonds' chandelier, extraordinary displays of original artwork created by Mr. Katz expressly for The Jewel Suite, Kelly's favorite colors incorporated throughout, uniquely designed jeweled china from the artistry and imagination of Mr. Katz, exclusive jewelry designs that "live" in spectacular suspended "Jewel Boxes", and breathtaking 15-foot windows in the Main Salon, with its own Grand Piano.

"Designing the suite was a truly inspiring process for me," explains Katz. "It really enabled me to see the space as its own jewel and I am so honored to be recognized for it. I am thrilled to have been able to create this in concert with my wife, Kelly. Her inspirations, taste and input were invaluable."

"Martin Katz's vision for The Jewel Suite truly exemplifies the upgraded experience we strived to give our guests through the recent $140 million renovations," says David Chase, General Manager of The New York Palace. "Together we have changed the paradigm for luxury hospitality, a feat that could have never been realized without Martin and his brand. I am both proud and honored to have had the opportunity to work with Martin and have one of our suites recognized with this prestigious honor - there is no one more deserving of this Gold Key Award."

About Martin Katz

Martin Katz, Ltd. was founded in 1988 after Katz himself became known for designing and creating the most coveted jewels in the world. Renowned for being the first independent jeweler to adorn Hollywood screen stars with magnificent jewels for high-profile events such as the Academy Awards, Martin Katz has since gained an international reputation and following among collectors and connoisseurs worldwide. The Martin Katz collection features signature contemporary designs of uncompromising quality and unmistakable craftsmanship. His passion and appreciation for rare, exceptional diamonds and precious stones crafted into designs with a 'youthful' attitude are hallmarks of his expertise and sophistication. Martin Katz jewels are available exclusively at his Beverly Hills salon on Brighton Way and Bergdorf Goodman in New York City. For more information on Martin Katz, please visit www.martinkatz.com, or follow Martin Katz on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest.

About The New York Palace

The New York Palace, a luxury midtown hotel on the corner of 50th & Madison, completed a $140 million redesign in the fall of 2013. The renovation transformed the property's premier rooms and suites in The Towers, a hotel-within-a-hotel. Additional upgrades included new lobbies, specialty suites and restaurants and bars including Trouble's Trust, The Lobby Lounge, Tavern on 51, Rarities and Pomme Palais. In addition to 24,000 square feet of updated event space, The Palace is home to private spaces located in the historic Villard Mansion that feature 19th century interiors and are ideal for lavish weddings, events and dinners. With 909 rooms and suites, The Palace is known for unparalleled splendor, spectacular views, spacious rooms and exquisite service. Located across the street from St. Patrick's Cathedral and only steps from Rockefeller Center – the hotel's world-renowned courtyard incorporates motifs from several 15th-century Italian cathedrals and has served as the entranceway to the historic Villard Mansion since 1882. The New York Palace gracefully blends the landmark Villard Mansion with a contemporary 55-story tower. Guests can reserve accommodations online at www.newyorkpalace.com or contact reservations at 1-800-NY-PALACE (1-800-697-2522).