The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
Washington, DC
Vibe
Original Palladian windows, velvet armchairs and an ornately gilded coffered ceiling give the lobby the presence of an Italian palazzo.
“Gilded power quarters”
The 1926 Carlton Hotel retains original Palladian windows and an ornately gilded coffered ceiling.
Washington power players still gather beneath the gilded lobby ceiling generations of presidents knew.
Suite butlers handle unpacking, garment pressing, and morning coffee or tea delivery.
At 16th and K Streets, two blocks from the White House and near Farragut stations.
“The nightly champagne sabering, suite butler service, and Alhambra's Mediterranean menu keep things suitably ceremonial.”
Rooms
The 2024 refresh brought cream walls, blue, gray and gold furnishings, and marble bathroom vanities to the rooms and suites.
“The lobby retains much of its Gilded Age glamour, with Palladian windows, an ornately gilded coffered ceiling and lush velvet armchairs.”
Backstory
The purpose-built Carlton opened in 1926, with Italian Renaissance architecture reflecting developer Harry Wardman’s ambition for an exclusive hotel.
“The lobby’s hand-carved wood ceiling has gold leafing and detailing that recall work found more commonly in Italian palazzos.”
Eat & drink
Alhambra serves Mediterranean dishes drawing on Iberian and Middle Eastern cuisines, while St. Regis Bar pairs cocktails and small plates with a fireplace.
“A 2024 refresh has left the 182 rooms and suites feeling airy and modern, thanks to a soothing palette of blues, grays, and golds”
The neighborhood
At 16th and K Streets, you’re two blocks from the White House, with lobbying firms, law offices and Farragut stations nearby.
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The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.