Washington, D.C.—On Thursday, the Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C., celebrated a major construction milestone—the topping off of its new-build, 7,000-square-foot Moretti ballroom. The iconic property will re-open as a luxury hotel in summer 2015 after a $125 million renovation.
The roof of the Moretti ballroom will be “topped off” with flora inspired by the building’s original landscape, and Euro Capital Properties executives, local dignitaries, and design partners placed historically significant ‘May Night Salvia’ seedlings into soil at the event. When the seedlings are mature, they will be incorporated into the landscape design on top of the ballroom.
The Moretti ballroom was added to the hotel by raising the earth an additional seven feet, creating 27,000 square feet of waterfront meetings and event space. The brand new ballroom will feature state-of-the-art technology and several configurations, as well as an additional 10,000 square feet of outdoor terraces overlooking the Potomac.
“Euro Capital Properties has been passionately committed to restoring the iconic structure to create an urban resort that exceeds the expectations of today’s modern, luxury guest in a setting that is central to everything,” said Jacques Cohen, principal, Euro Capital Properties.
In addition, guests witnessed the unveiling of The Watergate Hotel’s retro-inspired uniforms for hotel associates by acclaimed ‘Mad Men’ costume designer Janie Bryant. Sketches from the first hospitality uniform collection from Bryant showcased her inspiration from the 1960s glamour and sophistication that The Watergate Hotel epitomized. Attendees were also granted access for a sneak peak of the hotel’s 12th floor rooftop, which has 360-degree views of the Potomac.
“The original design of The Watergate Hotel was ahead of its time and sparked a debate about the future of architecture,” Cohen stated. “You will notice that there isn’t a straight line in sight. Since the hotel first opened, it has been renovated time and again, yet we are really the first to embrace the building’s original beauty.”
The Watergate Hotel will usher in a new era of chic, retro glamour with 340 luxury guestrooms, fine dining and casual cuisine, a whisky bar, and a rooftop with 360-degree views, in addition to a spa and fitness facility complete with an indoor pool.
