At The Pierre, connections in an elevator lift the hospitality higher

The Taj’s flagship US property occupies a unique position in New York — more for its people than architecture

The Taj’s flagship US property occupies a unique position with a copper mansard roof that stands out even in New York’s remarkable skyline

 

Have you ever stepped into an elevator and been greeted with a friendly smile, sincere enquiries about your well-being and wishes for a wonderful day ahead? Or have you received a weather update with tips about whether your clothes would be appropriate?

Well, if you have had the pleasure of visiting The Pierre, the luxurious Taj hotel in New York, then you have in every likelihood experienced just this. The Pierre’s elevators are no ordinary lifts; they are staffed by a dedicated team of nine who ensure a warm and welcoming experience around the clock.

 

From the moment you step into The Pierre’s elevator, you are met with a level of hospitality that sets the tone for an experience beyond compare. It’s a unique practice in today’s day and age in New York to have elevator attendants who create such a positive impact on the guest, but here it is an established tradition: three out of the present nine have over 20 years’ experience under their belts, while four others have served for over 10 years. Their presence is a testament to The Pierre’s commitment to providing a memorable and enjoyable stay for every guest.

The Pierre rotunda

Located across from Central Park at 61st Street, on the famed Fifth Avenue, the Taj’s flagship US property occupies a unique position with a copper mansard roof that stands out even in New York’s remarkable skyline. This epitome of timeless luxury and impeccable service has been my ‘go-to’ address over my many visits to the metropolis, sitting very much at the bustling heart of New York and nestled amidst the city’s skyscrapers.

There are many things that stand out within the hallowed portals which I could speak of, but today I would like to highlight a very special human touch that adds that special worth and meaning to this hotel. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of crossing paths with an extraordinary individual named Khady. One of the elevator attendants, she’s one of the many people who makes Taj Pierre a remarkable experience, a symbol of the heart and soul that powers this iconic hotel.

Khady Gueyesall has been an elevator operator at The Pierre since 1990

Intrigued to know more about this warm, energetic presence, I learned that Khady Gueyesall has been an elevator operator at the Pierre since 1990. She has always regarded the mahogany-panelled cabin as her ‘office’. A Senegalese by birth, her parents made their living by selling vegetables grown in their garden. Those hardships, however, never reflect in the radiant smile with which she goes about her job. She has an innate talent for welcoming every guest with a grace that’s infectious and heartwarming. Though I have appreciated her energy over many years, it was not until my recent visit when New York was flooded with water, and they declared an emergency that I really got to have a chat with her.

Sundeep Bhutoria with Khady

As I tried to understand the role of the elevator attendants, I discovered that Taj Pierre, unlike many other hotels, upholds a tradition where the elevators are staffed 24/7. This attentive service is part of what makes Taj Pierre, with 72 privately owned apartments and 189 rooms, stand out. Their presence helps maintain the elegance and safety of these exclusive accommodations, making the service a crucial aspect of the guest experience.

Currently, nine dedicated individuals take turns operating these elevators, and Khady is undeniably one stalwart of this unique team. Her journey began in the hospitality industry as a housekeeping professional at Helmsley’s Palace (now known as New York Palace). Over the years, Khady’s warmth, dedication, and exceptional service have earned her the trust and admiration of countless luminaries. Michael Jackson was one such icon whom she served for four memorable years. The list of celebrities she has not just served, but also befriended, includes the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Lionel Richie, Janet Jackson, La Toya Jackson, Kirstie Alley, Patti LaBelle, Oprah Winfrey and many more. She’s even been featured in Kirstie Alley’s book, a testament to her exceptional service.

 

The Hall of Fame and collection of memorabilia at The Pierre

It’s not just Khady’s warmth and grace that sets her apart, but also her genuine compassion. She recounted a heartwarming story where she made a profound difference in a young boy’s life during his three-week stay at Taj Pierre with his father and stepmother. Khady’s innate curiosity and empathy led her to discover that the boy was missing quality time with his dad. With her characteristic magic, she not only offered advice but also facilitated a heartfelt conversation with the boy’s stepmother, mending relationships and bringing tears of joy to all involved. This story is but only one example of Khady’s remarkable ability to connect with people.

The author at The Pierre’s entrance and a short history of the hotel

The Taj Pierre was formerly known as the Four Seasons, and it’s a matter of pride to experience how the establishment has seamlessly transitioned under the management of Taj Hotels. It has maintained the hotel’s importance as a city landmark even today, with the same attention to service and detail it’s had since the 1930s. The white-gloved elevator attendants, a Les Clefs d’Or concierge team and trained housekeepers, are always on their toes in maintaining the quality of service, upholding its reputation for uber refinement, relaxation and indulgence.

In the realm of luxury and hospitality, it is not only the infrastructure but also the people who make the difference. And Khady, the smiling face in the elevator, is not just an employee; she is the heart and soul of Taj Pierre.

This article was published in The Telegraph on 29.10.23 https://www.telegraphindia.com/my-kolkata/places/at-the-pierre-connections-in-an-elevator-lift-the-hospitality-higher/cid/1976201