If something’s not broken, there’s no need to fix it. It is also true, however, that a little fix-up can make it a whole lot better. Exhibit A is the definitely-wasn’t-broken Peninsula New York, which has just unveiled its top-to-toe refurbishment.

One of New York City’s best and grandest hotels, the Fifth Avenue five-star was renovated last in 1998, but was known for being reliably chic and luxurious, if perhaps unhip. In a city with the hippest of hip hotels, for many that was a drawcard.

The new look by hospitality starchitects Bill Rooney Studio has resisted trendiness while amping up quiet luxury in a design inspired by 1920s New York, applied to 219 guest rooms and suites, public spaces and select dining venues.

Trendiness may have been relegated, but certain aspects have been given contemporary relevance. The Salon de Ning rooftop lounge, with 1930s Shanghai theme, has been replaced by Pen Top (its previous name), a place for drinks and light bites – reminiscent of a New York artist’s loft, it features stylish furnishings and greenery.

In the grand entrance, the reception and concierge space has been redesigned with fresher, lighter finishes, augmented by the existing oversized chandelier, and sweeping marble double staircase and wood panelling of the original build.

The palm court, the hotel’s central atrium, now has a newly commissioned triptych by Mexican-born artist Ricardo Mazal, who has had exhibitions in many important museums. The triptych is “inspired by nature and represents human energy in the city”.

Just off the hotel lobby, the Gotham lounge is now a piano bar featuring works by New York pop artist, Keith Haring.

The Gotham name remains as a nod to the hotel’s history. It opened in 1905 as the Gotham Hotel before becoming the Nova Park Gotham for a short while. In the 1980s, it was Maxim’s de Paris Suite Hotel, an outpost of the then super-cool Pierre Cardin-owned Maxim’s restaurant in the French capital.