Exclusive: First Look at the New Viceroy Hotel in Washington, DC

Sandra Ramani
·3 min read

For its first hotel in Washington, D.C., Viceroy Hotels & Resorts has created a place that celebrates the destination in its design and that, given the current climate, has been specifically envisioned to serve as a safe haven for both visitors and locals. Set in the Logan Circle neighborhood, in what was formerly the Mason & Rook hotel, the much-anticipated Viceroy Washington DC opened in mid-August with amenities such as a café and wine bar with the largest patio off of 14th Street, a rooftop offering outdoor lounging space and 178 rooms that are not only among the largest in town, but that also have things—like no-touch Google NestHub “virtual concierges” and ample workspaces—that address what guests are looking for today.

“Our focus was launching our modern, artful hotel with safety and emotional comfort at the forefront for both our guests and colleagues, which meant changing the ways we were used to operating,” Jeffrey Harvey, the hotel’s interim general manager, tells Robb Report. “We had to learn how our team could provide a modern luxury experience to guests in a ‘new normal,’ which we achieved by honing in on our advanced commitment to cleanliness and social distancing guidelines.” (It’s all in keeping with Viceroy’s Promise of Cleanliness protocols.) Harvey adds that touches like the oversized rooms and thoughtful amenities “allow guests to enjoy a peaceful respite—which, at present, is what a lot of people seem to be looking for—and a welcome, comfortable change of scenery.”

The “scenery” of the hotel is notable, as well. Past a striking mural on the façade by Brandon Hill, co-founder of No Kings Collective, guests will find spaces that pay tribute to the destination. “Our goal was to create a welcoming, neighborhood hotel that highlights the creative spirit and diversity of artistry in the District,” says Jennifer Johanson, president and CEO of California-based EDG Design, which oversaw the transformation of the building. “The hotel’s design and aesthetic were pulled from its eclectic surroundings.” Accordingly, you’ll find a gallery featuring rotating exhibits of works by local artists, a bar and restaurant that references the jazz heritage of Logan Circle and art pieces throughout that help tell the city’s story—from a cardboard collage of D.C. native Marvin Gaye to a painting of the city’s iconic cherry blossoms.

Up in the rooms, things like custom-curated jazz playlists further keep the D.C. connection going. And there’s more to come, too, including the opening of Hush, a seasonal rooftop cocktail bar, and of the contemporary Dovetail bar and restaurant. Viceroy fans will also be able to enjoy a second D.C. property from the brand when Hotel Zena opens later this year. Rates start at $225 a night.

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