London-based hospitality design specialist, Richmond International, reveals 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, The Langham, Boston, a landmark hotel, has reclaimed its position as one of the country’s most desirable destinations following the completion of a three-year renovation by design studio Richmond International.
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.
“This project was hugely exciting for the whole team,” said Fiona Thompson, Principal at Richmond International who won Outstanding Contribution to the Hospitality Industry award last year at The Brit List Awards. “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 and 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 facade.
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.
Image caption: Sitting area in the lobby. | Image credit: Langham Hotels
Governor’s and Lincoln Room, Wyeth Room and 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 and 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.
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- Image caption: The new Grana restaurant inside The Langham Boston. | Image credit: Langham Hotels
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- Image caption: The Fed Bar is the hotel’s new F&B unit. | Image credit: Langham Hotels
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.
Guestrooms
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.
Main image credit: Langham Hotels
