The Hamilton Crowne Plaza, Washington, D.C., hotel in Washington, United States
The Hamilton Crowne Plaza is a Beaux-Arts hotel in downtown Washington, D.C., recognizable by its classical European design with arches and ornamental details throughout its facade. The building contains over 300 guest rooms, elegant common areas with restored original ceilings featuring gold and deep blue decoration, a contemporary American restaurant called 14K, and a lounge area integrated into the lobby.
The site began in 1851 as a private school called Rugby Academy before becoming the Rugby House hotel in 1870. The current building was constructed in 1922 after demolition of the earlier structures, designed by architect Jules Henri de Sibour in the Beaux-Arts style.
The hotel is named after Eliza Hamilton Holly, daughter of Alexander Hamilton, connecting guests to early American history through its identity. Walking through the lobby, visitors encounter artwork and furnishings that reference Washington, D.C.'s past and the figures who shaped the nation.
The hotel sits near Franklin Square Park and provides easy walking access to many sites including the White House and National Mall museums. Its proximity to metro stations and downtown streets makes it convenient for visitors wanting to explore different neighborhoods on foot.
Workers discovered an original 1920s ceiling hidden beneath a false ceiling during recent restoration work and carefully brought it back to life. The restored ceiling features a painted Pegasus above the central doors and a honeycomb pattern repeated in gold and deep blue tones throughout the vaulted design.
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