The recently completed $4-million transformation of the Hilton Garden Inn Bethesda Downtown, which included the lobby, meetings and events spaces, bar and lounge, restaurant and a new fitness center, ushers in a newly reimagined era for the 216-room property with contemporary and purposeful design elements complemented by technological enhancements, all with a design inspired by the local urban parks.
“A charming characteristic of downtown Bethesda is the abundance of parks and walking trails that weave throughout the urban landscape,” said Laura L. Bennett, senior interior designer, Premier. “Premier captured this influence and effectively drew the city’s green spaces into the hotel’s interior through the application of biophilic-themed finishings and artwork. That same inspiration helped Premier’s Interior Design team activate the property’s Hilton Brighthearted Program—an initiative to incorporate the needs of the local cultural and business communities by creating community-minded spaces and services with a focus on sustainability and authentic local experiences.”
The renovation added amplified WiFi capabilities, keyless locks and UNO Net television systems and enhanced capabilities for guests traveling for business, attending an event or on vacation.
“This renovation brings to life an experience where business and leisure intersect, with service and attention to detail weaved into every aspect,” said Amanda Mauceri, SVP, development, Dauntless Capital Partners, owners of Hilton Garden Inn Bethesda Downtown. “Ideally nestled in the heart of downtown Bethesda, our newly transformed hotel provides guests a passport to one of the most prominent communities in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.”
The design refresh is rooted in nature with a soothing, muted palette featuring pops of vibrant colors that reference Bethesda’s seasonal changes. The modern aesthetic boasts finishes and furniture styles that are warm and welcoming, with a variety of soft seating options and textures. Throughout the lobby and public spaces, seating focuses on communal configurations that encourage interactions between guests and hotel team members. An emphasis on natural light, with support from warm lighting, creates a residential atmosphere. Art throughout the hotel references nature through both abstract and realistic pieces.
“Premier was easily able to fit the design into the brand parameters/requirements by customizing some of the textiles and finishes to a more business-minded aesthetic, while still maintaining the ‘laidback sophistication’ and brightness the brand requires,” said Bennett.
The designer said that a favorite aspect of the refresh was the new lobby. “The area of the design I’m most proud of is the whole lobby; great room and space,” she said. “The registration desk was reconfigured and opened so team members can more easily assist guests. The quick print station was relocated to be closer to the front desk, while the sundries area was relocated to the former business center and opened for displaying food and beverage offerings to guests. The program lounge seating in the lobby space also includes convenience outlets for guests to stay connected and powered. Overall, the design encapsulates Hilton Garden Inn’s style, variety, and iconic elements such as texture, pattern, color and contrast.”
Twin Bridges Hospitality, a hotel asset management and advisory firm, is the hotel’s asset manager, and HHM Hotels operates the property.
