Avenue Suites Hotel
Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington DC

Unchanged since its construction in the 1970s, this hotel was in serious need of updating. New management, understanding the value of the location on Pennsylvania Avenue, with proximity to Georgetown, Washington's redeveloped West End, and nearby global institutions including the World Bank, proceeded to rebrand the property.

On the Avenue, the grim north-facing dark brick facade has been painted white, and a flamed granite street-level base has been added. A new entrance generously welcomes guest with a white stucco-framed portal and new glazing, stairs, ramp and canopy, adding a modern blend of materials and interest at street level.

Inside, most of the first floor walls have been removed and the rear wall opened to a small, previously unused, south-facing terrace. The removal of the walls, combined with the continued need for the vertical supply chases for eight stories of rooms above, led to a solution that creates a series of cozy wood-lined nooks. These spaces open first to a larger lounge/bar area and then, through folding glass walls to the terrace. The complex geometries and woodwork of the nooks provide richness and interest.

The overall result a refined intimate interior and a defined modern exterior with a now-active presence on this great and historic Avenue.