Portfolio

YOTEL Washington DC

A playful, whimsical renovation and retrofit that fuses new and old with innovation

Location

Washington, DC

Size

377 keys

As the brand’s first-ever renovation and a retrofit of an existing building, YOTEL Washington DC entrusted Wimberly Interiors to lead a fresh fusion of new and old signature elements and innovative tech-heavy adaptable design – all within the constraints of a pre-defined space.

Designed for a wide-range of discerning DC travelers and locals – from staycationers to Gen Z, families and businesspeople – elements of YOTEL’s signature youthful, playful design and amenities were balanced with warm, whimsical touches to create a beautifully streamlined destination that appeals to everyone.

In line with YOTEL’s tech-led and smart design principles, guests arrive beneath an ethereal, perforated metal ceiling of cloud-like patterns and technicolor LED lights, serving as a focal point of the “Mission Control” and bringing luxury above the clouds in a spectrum of hues. Two new commissions from artists Melissa Borrell (Austin, Texas) and Justin Gitlin (Denver, Colorado), add pops of color and layers to the space – both distinctively different, yet interactive and playful in their own rights: one, an acrylic 3D sculpture and the other a trippy, digital ‘mirror’ that picks up your every move. Maximizing functionality, this public space was also designed with efficiency and a multitude of guest needs in mind, featuring self-check-in kiosks, “Komyuniti” breakout spaces for relaxation and business, and an elevated food and beverage offering serviced by the adjoining hospitality space.

A reimagined Art and Soul restaurant builds on the popularity, reputation and location of this existing hospitality space, continuing to serve Southern-inspired gastronomic delights for locals and hotel guests alike. Featuring curated everyday objects and artworks, YOTEL’s signature purple hues add playfulness alongside whimsical neon lights, handwritten recipes, kitchen utensils, and abstract depictions of DC monuments. Custom-made chairs in contrasting colors and forms provide style and comfort, creating an atmosphere that is both relaxed and dynamic at once with private dining areas and an outdoor patio to complement.

Upstairs, one of the largest rooftops in the District – Deck 11 – serves as an integral communal space. By day, a myriad of different areas with lounges, sun shading, misting machines and lawn games combine with a newly renovated pool, generously sized, custom-made cabanas fitted with charging stations for prime working vacations, and a fully loaded bar. Once darkness descends, Deck 11 transitions into an entertainment space, with a movable DJ table, playful furniture and customizable configurations for events of all shapes and sizes.

On the lower levels, the hotel boasts 10,000 square-feet of flexible meeting space and is a hub for business and social networking. With a formal ballroom and several contemporary meeting rooms, all fitted with the latest technology and design where groups of all sizes can be accommodated perfectly.