The Mayflower Renaissance Hotel begins 2011 with the announcement of a substantial redesign project, including a multi-million dollar refurbishment of the historic hotel. Beginning this month, the ‘Grand Dame’ of the nation’s capital will undergo physical upgrades to the lobby, restaurant, bar and retail spaces. The renovation, designed by acclaimed firm Wilson Associates, will begin later this month and is expected to conclude mid-summer 2011.The current Town & Country Lounge will become the new home of Thomas Pink — a layout that recalls an earlier configuration of the hotel in which the retail space faces DeSales Street. The new Thomas Pink store will resurface with a fresh look similar to its prototype in London.
The area presently occupied by Thomas Pink will offer a new dining option with a restaurant and bar for patrons to enjoy food and drink. In the past, the space near Connecticut Avenue was home to a coffee shop and several eateries frequented by FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover and President Harry Truman, who bestowed upon the hotel its nickname, “Washington’s Second Best Address.”
The Mayflower’s Café Promenade will reopen as a new 3,000 square foot gala event space. The historic ballroom’s breathtaking skylight, chandeliers and murals will remain intact for guests to admire.
