HotelChatter

Yellow "picnic tables," which look as if they'd flatten if you dare sit on them, run parallel to the runway striping of the sidewalk. The hue matches the revolving doors of the lobby, which pretty much solidifies Pantone's choice of Mimosa as 2009's "it" color. Meanwhile, off to the side of the action, more outdoor furniture is being placed, although these appear to be wired chairs in the style of some famous Bertoia designs. They're even getting red cushions attached as we speak. Can you tell we're a little excited?

While activity continues on the lower levels as the hotel readies to receive their first "friends and family" guests, The Standard's top eight floors reflect the opposite. Seven of the floors, destined to be guest rooms, can be confirmed as unfinished (even viewed from the street).

In some of the higher floors, the ceilings haven't even been installed and materials stand propped against the windows. The lower seven floors, however, keep their curtains closed tight during the day. Fear not, for we know they are finished because we've seen into them at dusk. So much for privacy blinds.

For more Standard stalking, visit the Flickr set and stay tuned *wink*.