Best Design Hotels in District of Columbia

While many of DC’s luxe hotels are grand, large establishments, the Rosewood bucks the trend as an intimate boutique hotel with a high-end approach. Set beside the canal, it gives access to a leafier side of the city, although the eponymous monument can still be seen from the rooftop. And it’s here, at the top of the building, that the Rosewod’s pool (and a pool bar) is found. Guests can also dine with a view of the canal in the Grill Room and drink in the club-style Rye Bar. Rooms at the Rosewood are bang on-trend, yet supremely elegant, with espresso machines, Pratesi linens, touch-panel tech and monsoon showers.

Standing today as the Riggs Washington DC Hotel, the former headquarters of Riggs National Bank, known as the Bank of Presidents, offers luxurious and unique accommodation to travellers from around the world. The hotel is comprised of 181 carefully designed guestrooms and suites with elements reflecting the building’s history with the exquisite Riggs Suite being housed in the former boardroom complete with ornate ceilings and fireplace. There are also accessible rooms and spaces on site. Guests are invited to make the most of the all-day on-site dining at the splendid Café Riggs which puts a contemporary twist on the concept of a classic brasserie. In the building’s original bank vault you’ll find the Silver Lyan Bar, the first bar by Mr Lyan outside of Europe. Guests can take full advantage of the 24-hour Riggs Gym or opt for the complimentary guest bikes to explore the city and make the most of your stay.

The luxurious Conrad Washington DC Hotel is conveniently located in Downtown DC, mere blocks away from the Walter E. Washington Convention Centre. Some of the city’s main attractions are situated less than ten minutes from the hotel – The White House, the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian Museum. There is an exquisite selection of guestrooms and suites featuring the expansive, almost-2,500-sqft, two-bedroom Presidential Suite with a double-sided gas fireplace, baby grand piano and access to the exclusive Sakura Club. The Sakara Club offers complimentary breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails. On-site dining is available at Estuary Restaurant and Bar where a seasonal, Mid-Atlantic menu is served daily. Guests are also welcome to enjoy local dishes and beverages in the spectacular Summit Rooftop Bar. There is also a fully equipped fitness centre. The hotel is pet friendly.

Around the corner from The Hay-Adams is the very grown-up Sofitel. It utilises a moodier decor palette than many of its local competitors, with darker hues, black and white vintage French posters and velvet upholstery. The hotel has a restaurant – Opaline Bar & Brasserie with an outdoor seating area and a fitness centre. 237 guest rooms take on a fairly minimalist style, with theatrical colours (lots of black and red), modern artworks and conveniences like blackout curtains and king-sized beds.

The AC Hotel Washington DC Downtown is the ideal option for those looking for a comfortable stay in a modern setting with excellent amenities and a collection of luminous and spacious rooms. The hotel features the AC Kitchen which serves a European breakfast spread to start your day the right way while the AC Lounge offers a tapas menu to pair with the selection of Spanish wines or the AC signature Gin & Tonic. Guests are invited to make the most of the facilities offered by the 24-hour, fully equipped fitness centre with Peloton bike. This hotel is pet friendly. The hotel’s location is conveniently close to two major metro stops meaning you’re well connected throughout your stay.