AKA has partnered with architectural design firm, Selldorf Architects, to oversee the transformation of its first Boston property, Hotel AKA Back Bay. Rich in history, built in 1926 as the former City of Boston Police Department Headquarters, the property embodies the characteristics of a sophisticated retreat that AKA is known for, offering premium accommodations and unique nuances of Back Bay’s cosmopolitan culture found throughout the hotel. The current design refresh will bring modern sensibilities to the property. Slated for completion later this year, Hotel AKA Back Bay is Selldorf Architects’ first-ever hotel project in Boston.
“Across our portfolio, we have had the chance to put our touch on notable buildings and Hotel AKA Back Bay is an inimitable space marked by substantial history and great importance to the neighborhood,” said Larry Korman, CEO, AKA. “It’s an honor to be collaborating with Annabelle Selldorf and her highly regarded Selldorf Architects team, as we breathe new life into this property. Design is a key pillar for our brand, and our shared design philosophies with Annabelle Selldorf will pioneer a new wave of luxury to Boston’s Back Bay.”
The addition of Hotel AKA Back Bay into the brand portfolio has created a gateway into New England for AKA, and this property perfectly showcases New England charm and history. Hotel AKA Back Bay is a noteworthy addition to Selldorf Architects’ portfolio of work in Massachusetts, where the firm also renovated The Clark Art Institute’s Museum Building and the Manton Research Center in Williamstown, MA.
“We are excited to be working with AKA in Boston,” said Annabelle Selldorf, principal, Selldorf Architects. “The original building has many features of a great hotel. Our work will reflect the cultural design shift away from a traditional hotel experience, bringing a unique, residential aesthetic to the property. Hotel AKA Back Bay will be an irresistible destination in the Back Bay near the Public Gardens for guests from near and far.”
Additionally, Boston-based architecture firm Group One served as the executive architect for the project.
Photography: Courtesy of Hotel AKA Back Bay
