“Knowing that the hotel was built in [the 1920s], amidst a thriving social atmosphere, provided a platform for the inspiration of the design,” says Patricia Miller, vice president, managing principal, and corporate director of hospitality for Dallas-based Leo A Daly.

For the update of the property’s 1,048 guestrooms, 104 suites, and lobby, designers focused on respecting the history of the building while adding contemporary touches.

Easily movable furniture was incorporated—a sofa can split apart into two separate seating groups, and lounge chairs and ottomans can be moved throughout the space.

“Our favorite part of the design was the integration of the hotel’s social history and the feeling of being transported back into the 1920s,” Miller explains.

Another inspiration was Perle Mesta, a socialite and political hostess who lived in Wardman Park in the 1940s and was known for the lavish parties she held for the elite society of Washington, DC.