A historic 19th-century structure in the nation’s capital has been transformed into the Moxy Washington, DC Downtown, courtesy of New York-based dash design. Stretching 14 stories above the K Street corridor, the hotel evokes a playful ambiance within a sleek restored building by local firm FILLAT+ Architecture.
Photography by Ron Blunt Photography and John Muggenborg
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
The Moxy DC juxtaposes the historic fabric of K Street with a modern façade clad in steel and glass.
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
“The setback of the building allowed for the creation of a great outdoor space that we were able to activate with furniture and games, creating an extension of the lobby during warm weather,” says dash design principal and founder David Ashen. “The glass allowed us to create a great connection between indoor and out, which we emphasized through the arrangement of seating.”
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
Playful artwork contrasts polished concrete floors, exposed ceilings, and reclaimed wood, which “became a great way to warm up the bar area of the lobby and ensure the space aligns with the Moxy aesthetic,” says Ashen.
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
The buzzing lounge and bar serves as a convivial social spot just off the lobby. “We wanted to allow for a transition for the guest, and not have them walk direction into the bar,” Ashen explains. “As they enter the hotel, they are encouraged to experience the lobby/lounge as they pass through it to get to the bar/reception.”
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
A two-story mural by a local artist adorns a lobby wall as one of several artful elements that pay homage to the city.
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
An installation composed of changing neon lighting captures the DC skyline in the lobby stairwell.
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
Overscaled lighting illuminates the grab-and-go counter.
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
Public restrooms are inspired by newsprint, another nod to the political city.