Boston, MassachusettsBack Bay East
Hotel AKA Back Bay
Headquarters turned Back Bay hotel
Back Bay East Boston, Massachusetts
Renovated
2024
Price
$$$
Rated for
Design Heritage LuxeOutside the door
The house
AKAHeadquarters turned Back Bay hotel
The old municipal fortress now operates as an understated city residence, complete with an all-day library lounge and a sidewalk bistro.
What it’s good at
Notable
Selldorf Architects crafted the residential interiors, accented by a hand-blown Murano glass chandelier.
Notable
A 1925 limestone landmark that once served as Boston Police Department headquarters.
Listed
Residential-style guest rooms pair custom work desks with a curated sleep wellness program.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The Public Garden sits two blocks away, and Newbury Street is a short stroll around the corner.
The rooms
Rooms are geared for longer stays with custom work desks. Weighted blankets and sound machines are available on request.
The gym
The lobby-level gym has Technogym machines and free weights, and hosts yoga classes on Saturday mornings.
Restaurant
Precinct Kitchen+Bar
A sunken patio beneath stone balustrades serves local seafood, French bistro dishes, and cocktails in the warmer months.
How it began
Boston's police force occupied the rusticated limestone building for seven decades before a 2004 conversion added three floors to the roof.
Boston
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.