London-based hospitality design specialists, Richmond International, revealed stunning interiors at the iconic The Langham Boston, following an extensive three-year renovation.
With a range of dynamic spaces accommodating both guests and day visitors, this landmark hotel has reclaimed its position as one of the country’s most desirable destinations. The project includes a complete transformation of the lobby, meeting rooms, event spaces and all guest rooms, as well as the addition of The Langham Club, and a brand new bar and restaurant.
The design carefully considers the building’s location in Boston, Massachusetts and draws on its history as the former Federal Bank of Boston. Richmond International expertly curated The Langham Boston’s new art collection which includes existing and commissioned pieces, reflecting the building’s rich background.
Fiona Thompson, Principal at Richmond International commented: “This project was hugely exciting for the whole team. We’ve worked with The Langham Group for many years on some of the finest hotels around the world, so we know the importance of integrating the historical and cultural influences of this fascinating building and city with a contemporary yet classic design that has become synonymous with The Langham brand”.
Hotel Lobby & Rear Lobby
The Lobby takes inspiration from the building’s banking heritage with bespoke furniture and lighting indicative of the space’s former life as a bank. A double-sided Chesterfield sofa, a modern take on banker’s lamps, and hand-tufted rugs replicating the colour scheme and motifs found on a dollar bill, all help to create a warm and welcoming lobby area; a charming antithesis to the imposing façade.
A focal point of the hotel Lobby, a bespoke artisan map of the city of Boston, has been produced using liquid metal on a cast resin base and sits behind the reception desk. A large portrait of the renowned Bostonian portraitist John Singleton Copley was created exclusively for The Langham Boston by Samuel Gareginyan and sets the tone for the for the significance and prominence of portraiture throughout the hotel.
In addition, the Rear Lobby has been transformed into an elegant entrance space with the introduction of a new, sculptural staircase leading to the ballroom, an ideal space for an intimate social gathering or for welcome drinks before a larger function in the Lincoln Ballroom.
Governor’s and Lincoln Room, Wyeth Room & Lincoln Ballroom
The Governor’s and Lincoln Room is a refined space that celebrates the historical significance and functionality that the room had as the bank’s former boardroom. Traditional panelled walls remain and, in-keeping with the theme, the plaid carpet is a nod to the tailored suits that were worn by the bankers. Historical photographs of the building and an assembly of antique maps of Boston and the surrounding towns and districts of Massachusetts adorn the walls.
Carefully renovated to preserve all its historical features, The Wyeth Room is the larger of the meeting spaces. The existing murals were lovingly protected during the refurbishment and now gallantly oversee the space. The Lincoln Ballroom is a new addition to The Langham, Boston and continues the sense of historical significance and classic aesthetic. A new vaulted skylight combined with the large windows create a bright and airy space for any occasion.
Grana & The Fed Bar
The new Grana restaurant is a vibrant destination and true celebration of its former life as main hall of the Bank, one of the most historical spaces in the building. Original features such as the stone flooring and the original terrazzo floors complete with the official Federal Reserve Bank seal were meticulously restored to their former glory. Likewise, the original frieze ceiling was maintained with the addition of a backlit lantern skylight to introduce an abundance of light into this expansive space. Fusing the new with the old; a modern interpretation of the original banking hall clock was created and a dramatic, modern sculpture of the Liberty head coin, created by Lyle London, is suspended above the entrance staircase.
In recognition of the former Federal Reserve Bank presidents, the restaurant features eight classic contemporary portraits by Debra Keirce, an award-winning member of The Portrait Society of America. Richmond International worked with local Boston Gallery, The Copley Society, which provided artworks throughout the property.
The hotel’s new bar, The Fed, is a sophisticated space with a lively central bar and intimate seating area. A tasteful take on a 1920’s private member’s club, the bar features a rich colour palette, velvet finishes and gold accents, as well as an eclectic mix of artworks and Persian-inspired rugs, a reflection of the 1920s and a new era of travel.
Guest Rooms
The guestrooms are inspired by travel, the New England coast and Boston’s history as one of the first places in the US to be colonised. The design touches in these rooms include a cellaret based on an old traveller’s trunk and a fresh colour palette for an inviting space to settle and relax after a long journey. Artwork celebrating Boston’s culture, environment and history pepper the walls either side of the headboard, from the Boston Red Sox, New England-native birds and vintage stock certificates.
The split-level Loft Suites each feature a sculptural art installation created by Boston-based ceramic and clay artist, Jeremy Ogusky that accentuate the double-height ceiling. Each installation comprises of approximately 60 pieces of wheel-thrown glazed plates arranged organically; the end result is a completely unique installation for every suite.
The hotel’s flagship suite, the Chairman Suite, channels the spirit of New England with a contemporary classic nod to the 1920’s period, including panelled walls and a selection of Persian-inspired rugs over a timber Herringbone floor. The suite also features an eclectic collection of unique items that one might acquire over time, capturing the essence of a true traveller. Furthermore, a one-of-a-kind installation from US-based paper artist, Olga Skorokhod, decorates the dining room wall.
The Langham Club
The Langham Club, a signature feature of The Langham Hotels & Resorts brand, has a clean and tailored aesthetic harmonised with contemporary detailing. The artwork in this space is a diverse mix of portraiture, sculpture and photography with subtle nods to the lounges of London and Chicago.
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About Richmond International
Since they were established in 1966 Richmond International has designed the interiors of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels in locations all across the globe. With clients ranging from multinational brands to independent owners, Richmond refurbishes, restores and creates award-winning spaces. Some notable clients include The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, The Langham Chicago, London West Hollywood, The Beaumont Hotel, London, several Four Seasons hotels including Budapest, Amman, Mauritius, and Moscow and P&O Britannia as well as the newest cruise ship P&O Iona launched in May 2021. Richmond International has been honoured with awards and accolades across the design space but continues to be driven to hotels that embrace design that is authentic, intelligent and inspiring.
About The Langham, Boston
The Langham, Boston, located at 250 Franklin Street, Boston, MA, is an iconic hotel housed in a national historic landmark that was once was the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, built in 1922. With its wealth of history and tradition, The Langham, Boston began a new era in June 2021, after a two year, multi-million dollar renovation. It’s refined elegance and unique amenities have helped to redefine The Langham as a new American classic hotel that sits at the top of the luxury sector. Benefitting from an ideal location in downtown Boston, The Langham features a luxurious British-inspired cocktail pub, The Fed; a magnificent destination restaurant, Grana, offering authentic Italian cuisine in a celebratory setting; and world-class meeting and function facilities, including the Lincoln Ballroom for weddings and social events, the Governor’s Room for elegant private dinners and board meetings and the Wyeth Room, featuring two historic paintings by N.C. Wyeth depicting important moments in the banking history of the United States. The hotel is home to a permanent, world-class art collection, featuring many works commissioned exclusively for The Langham. As of September 2021, the hotel will also feature The Langham Club, a private haven where guests can meet, eat and socialize. The Langham, Boston is a Virtuoso Preview property, exclusively part of the global luxury network’s industry-leading Hotels & Resorts Program.
http://langhamhotels.com/Boston