The Colonial House Inn

Built in the 1850's the Colonial House Inn is a fine example of the type of architecture that has made Chelsea one of the most popular neighborhoods in New York.

Purchased in the early seventies by proprietor, Mel Cheren, it remained a single room occupancy building until 1982, when Mr. Cheren began donating rooms to the then fledgling Gay Men's Health Crisis. Over the next two years, he continued to provide GMHC with more and more rooms for their offices, until in 1984 they outgrew The Colonial House and had to move to larger quarters.

Early in 1985, Mr. Cheren began renovating 318 W. 22nd Street in order to transform the building into a guesthouse.

Although the Colonial House Inn opened for business in 1985, renovations continued through 1991. For eight years running, the Inn has been the recipient of the Out and About Editor's Choice Award for gay specific accommodations setting new standards for quality, amenities, and service.

The Colonial House Inn lobby houses The 24 Hours for Life Gallery. The gallery has been dedicated by Mel Cheren to the late artist, Keith Haring, who designed the logo for 24 Hours for Life.