B E R N D P I C H E R
Interview} John Russo
Photographs by} John Russo
Location} 1 Hotel Brooklyn
JR: Can you give us a brief background on yourself and how you found your way to working at the property.
BP: I am originally from Austria. I built my foundation in hospitality with a degree in International Hospitality & Tourism Management and certifications as a sommelier and Les Clefs d’Or concierge. My career began in roles across Europe and North America, including time in sales and marketing at The Leading Hotels of the World, where I represented properties in the UK, Scandinavia, and the Middle East. Later, I held positions at The Langham London and various Fairmont properties, including Fairmont Abu Dhabi, San Francisco, San Diego and Sonoma, honing my approach to luxury guest experiences and delivering results for owners and the brand through diverse operations and leadership roles. I joined 1 Hotels from the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe and haven’t looked back since starting this amazing journey.
JR: Has your role been the same at the property, or have you worked in other roles at the company?
BP: I started at SH Hotels & Resorts in 2019 as the Hotel Manager at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge and was promoted to General Manager at 1 Hotel Central Park in 2021. As of 2023, I’m the Area Managing Director for 1 Hotels in New York, overseeing both properties and ensuring our vision of sustainable luxury resonates across the brand. We are continuously expanding our footprint as proven results and our mission driven approach to operate a strong pipeline over the next few years.
JR: Can you tell us the brand philosophy at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge?
BP: Our philosophy is rooted in a mission-driven approach to luxury that’s inspired by nature. The brand embraces sustainable design and architecture, blending comfort with unparalleled service. Guided by the belief that those who explore the world should care for it, we channel nature through thoughtful design and culinary collaborations, connecting deeply with the local community. From eco-conscious practices to our community partnerships, we strive to create memorable experiences that also make a positive impact.
JR: What makes the property different from staying at other City Properties in New York City?
BP: What sets 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge apart from other city properties in New York is its immersive connection to nature within an urban setting. Located right along the East River in Brooklyn Bridge Park, the hotel offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and, of course, the Brooklyn Bridge itself. The property’s design incorporates reclaimed materials, natural textures, and greenery throughout, creating an escape from the city’s hustle.
JR: Furthermore, our distinctive amenities. Guests can unwind at Harriet’s Rooftop, enjoying handcrafted cocktails and bites while taking in breathtaking skyline views, or relax by our rooftop pool. For those seeking rejuvenation, Bamford Wellness Spa offers restorative, nature-inspired treatments and wellness experiences. These, along with our dedication to sustainability and community-centered activations, make 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge a refreshing and unique choice in the heart of the city.
BP: What about your property keeps guests returning for multiple stays?
JR: We have stayed at the world’s top city hotels, and I must say your property exceeds expectations.It’s great to hear that you found 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge exceeded your expectations, especially after staying at other top city hotels. We strive to create a unique experience for our guests and hope to welcome you back for another stay soon.
BP: Guests return to 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge because we offer more than just a place to stay. It’s all about the experience. The team genuinely cares about making each visit special, from personalized service to unique programming. The views are also unbeatable, with the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge creating a magical backdrop. Our strong connection with the local community and commitment to sustainability resonate deeply. It feels great to be part of something that’s not just luxurious but also meaningful, which brings people back time and again.
JR: How have you maintained such a high level of consistent perfection in an ever-changing hotel market? Is there a secret to your success?
BP: We prioritize hiring and training a dedicated team that shares our commitment to quality and service. Continuous feedback from guests helps us adapt and improve, ensuring we meet their needs and expectations. Our Mission Loyalty program plays a vital role in this. When guests join, they share information about their preferences, sleep patterns, and wellness rituals. This enables us to create a customized guest experience, tailoring their retreats perfectly and providing exclusive offers and thoughtful surprises that help them feel right at home.Additionally, our focus on sustainability and community connection resonates with guests and enhances their overall experience. We also stay ahead of industry trends and actively seek innovative ways to elevate our offerings. It’s a combination of teamwork, responsiveness, and a clear vision that drives our success.
JR: Tell us about some of the unique curated experiences the property offers?
BP: At 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, we offer a variety of thoughtfully curated experiences that reflect our commitment to sustainability and well-being. One such experience is our Mindful Mixology Master Class, where guests learn sustainable, zero-waste cocktail-making techniques using ingredients that are often overlooked or discarded. We also host A Supper That Sustains Us, a dinner series that highlights local farmers and food producers, accompanied by enriching conversations with sustainability advocates and industry experts. In addition, our wellness programming focuses on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit, all while honoring the surrounding environment – like guided community run clubs through our neighboring Brooklyn Bridge Park. With each experience, we invite guests to connect deeply with our mission and the community in meaningful ways.
JR: The Rooftop is spectacular. How is this space offered to guests? Dinner, lunch, drinks?
BP: Harriet’s Rooftop truly is something special—it has this undeniable magic to it. Even after five years here, I still find myself taken aback by the view. What’s great about Harriet’s is the energy we bring to every part of the day. We’ve curated a dynamic experience for our guests, from handcrafted, seasonal cocktails to Asian-inspired small plates that are perfect for sharing or savoring solo.But it’s not just the food and drinks that draw people in. We’re constantly thinking of ways to create memorable moments here. Our Sunday Sol Together series, brings in a rotating lineup of DJs, creating this uplifting vibe that’s perfect for unwinding before the week begins. Or, our weekend Sunset Sessions are a personal favorite – where local DJs set the perfect ambiance as the sun sets along the city skyline. Harriet’s isn’t just a rooftop; it’s a vibe, a celebration of what makes Brooklyn so magnetic. I’m proud to say that we offer something truly unique—a place that captures the essence of Brooklyn and offers a memorable experience.
To find out more about 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge follow them @1Hotel.bklynbridge