4. The Chelsea Hotel Is Fireproof – But That Didn’t Prevent Fires

One architectural feature that also attracted creatives and chaos to the Chelsea Hotel was its fireproof and soundproof walls. The Landmarks Commission writes in its designation report that the Chelsea Hotel “has some of the first fireproofed wrought-iron beams. They span the distance between walls, without intermediate columns.” This amenity was especially useful when rowdy guests would set fires in their room. One notable guest who accidentally set their room ablaze was Andy Warhol star Edie Sedgwick, who fell asleep while candles were still burning. After the incident, the Chelsea Hotel staff decided to move her into the room above the lobby to keep a close eye on her.