As native Washingtonians we couldn't be more excited that the W Hotel is opening its doors July 8th. Not only because the W Washington, D.C. brings with it a fresh and modern twist to the luxury market; but because they're taking over the amazing spot long occupied by the Hotel Washington. Located just a couple blocks from the White House (in fact it's the closest hotel to the President's pad) and a stone's throw from the Washington Monument, it's simply ideal. We were fortunate to get a sneak peak.
The W Washington, D.C. did a fine job of renovating and renewing historical elements of the building inside and out, like the original Hotel Washington sign, the moldings throughout, and many breathtaking refurbished chandeliers; but they've added those hip uniquely W elements like an Beaux Art "W" outside (see above), a swanky lobby jewel box bar, crackled leather walls, and a retro cool roof top bar all created by noted designer Dianna Wong.
From the top down, we were wowed. The old Hotel Washington rooftop bar was a local fave to grab drinks after work or to bring out of town guests and now it's back and way better than before as the POV. The views which stretch from the Wilson Bridge to the Capital, to the Washington Monument (our view pictured above), and the White House are unsurpassable. The lounge is Alice in Wonderland inspired with red leather tufted couches and big curvy wingback chairs. Signature 20's cocktails with homemade juices and sodas and ice chips to match make it a destination of its own. Lunch and dinner tapas are served on the deck and guests of the hotel will be pleased that a portion of those tables are reserved for them.
Moving down the building are the W's suites and rooms. Each of the suites occupies a corner room affording you the best view we've ever seen from a tub. The guest rooms are modern W with lots of white laminate, shag carpeting, and frosted glass showers (sadly they say we're not ready yet in D.C. for clear glass) that open to the room to let the light in. What the average rooms lack in size they more than make up for in big comfy feather-top beds. That's where we spend most of our time anyway!
The expansive lobby bar (rendering pictured above) has plenty of room for daytime lounging and cruising the free WiFi, and its gorg refinished chandeliers with new LCD lighting components will change the mood and color for a swanky late night drink. When you go, scope out the refinished check-in stand that they converted to a private space.
Just beyond that is DC's first Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant with great steaks and haute cuisine that we'll review later. The J & G steakhouse is stacked with two aisles of big curvy leather booths, many of which have phenomenal two-story views of Pershing Park across the street and the monuments.
Around the corner and down a set of stairs or easily accessible from Pennsylvania Ave. is The Wine Bar, a cool and quiet space wrapped around a communal table serving small plates
One last uber important addition to the W Washington, D.C. is a brand new Bliss Spa where you can experience a signature treatment or purchase some of our favorite beauty products. While we were slightly disappointed to see only a single shower and loo, we're optimistic they'll space out the appointments so that you won't feel crowded in the otherwise fantastically appointed waiting room. Personally, we can't wait to get in there for the Triple Oxygen Facial and the brownie bar. They don't open until next week; but they're already taking reservations.
The W Washington, D.C. opens next Wednesday, July 8th, 2009. See you on the rooftop!
This is the best review of the W hotel I have ever read!
ReplyDeletexoxo, Amy
FYI - Dianna Wong of Los Angeles was the interior designer for the entire hotel - rooms, public spaces, restaurants, spa, etc. We think she and her team did a wonderful job integrating the historic with the new and hip!
ReplyDeleteVisited the hotel for the opening last night and want to tell everyone it is not all that. the place looks cool when you first arrive, and i must say they did a great job in keeping the crowd minimal so people could enjoy themselves, but there were many problems with the hotel itself. Specifically, it feels like a very old place (i know it is). if you go to the first floor restroom, you almost feel like you are walking in a dirty old house that has been abandoned. as one exits the elevators on the roof, it feels like parts of the hotel were only painted and no other changes were made. we made it to a hotel room at the end of the night and were pleased with the standard W bed and other facilities but again felt like the hotel was old and dirty. i was not all that impressed. there are far cooler places in dc to hang out.
ReplyDeleteDear "Anon"-
ReplyDeleteWe do appreciate your feedback from your visit last night. In my opinion, the W had a challenge trying to update the hotel which was one of the oldest in the city. I'm happy to hear the crowds weren't overwhelming, reports were that there was a line wrapped around the building to get in at one point.
Thank you for reading and return often with your input!
Hope and Anne
Love the upstair bar, the guest rooms also look great, the design is really clean and well done. The furniture is amazing any idea who manufactured it.
ReplyDeleteWill be going again tomorrow!