Conrad Washington D.C.: 2020 Best of Year Winner for Domestic Chain Hotel
The nation’s capital is an international beacon of majesty, ingrained history, and, now, optimism for the future. Herzog & de Meuron and Rottet Studio, collaborating on architecture and interiors, respectively, sought to solidify these qualities in the Conrad, a Hilton hotel. The 11-story, 360-room property is decidedly not a boutique hotel, but instead a true luxury destination.
Super contemporary and, of course, chic, thanks to Interior Design Hall of Fame member Lauren Rottet, the hotel exudes said luxury though materials: walnut, Calacatta marble, limestone, bronze, and light, both natural and supplemental, the latter coming from fantastical fixtures. There’s a story line, too. The lobby, situated on the third floor, has roots in an early American village whose inhabitants stroll from place to place. Now it’s the guests noting details, like the bar’s bronze-trimmed cylindrical form. Arriving in generous quarters, they come upon a dining-cum-work table, sconces that reference colonial lanterns, and a subtly bowed wall with mood lighting projected from its cove. Meanwhile, a bank of built-in power outlets and USB ports above the nightstand are among the 21st-century amenities.
Project Team: Lauren Rottet; David Davis; Anja Majkic; Enrique Vela; Kaitlin Borgen (Rottet Studio).
> See the full list of winners and honorees from Best of Year 2020
