This contemporary hotel was renovated in 2014, and its decor is mainly chic and modern throughout. The hotel takes up two buildings and, with its location in the quieter Capitol Hill area, manages to be free of much of the surrounding city noise. Guests are treated to free coffee in the lobby, and free wine is served on select nights in the Library, which adds to the social, yet relaxed atmosphere. The lobby has comfortable seating and an open fire-place for relaxing, or guests can choose to work out -- night or day -- in the large, well-equipped fitness center. A business center and meeting rooms are also on-site, which isn't surprising given the hotel's location near all things official-business in the nation's capital. While business travelers are the most frequent guests, couples and families also frequent the hotel. 

Its location in the south east portion of the Capitol Hill area means that, while the streets surrounding the hotel are bustling during the day, they're quiet in the evenings and on weekends. It’s a five-minute walk to the Capitol Building and six minutes to the Library of Congress, while The White House will take you around 13-minutes to reach by car or cab. Union Station, which is a main hub for Amtrak and city buses, is a 10-minute car ride away and the city is well served by the metro. The Capitol South Metro station is a four-minute walk from the hotel’s front door. Washington Reagan Airport is around 11-minutes away by car, or 30 minutes by metro. Dulles will take about 40 minutes to reach by car. The hotel also offers free bicycles to visitors who wish to explore D.C on two wheels. 

The hotel has 153 rooms, ranging in size from Junior to Superior Suites. They're decorated in sober, neutral tones, with just a splash of color in some furniture and artwork. The rooms are chic and stylish, with seating areas that feature handsome seating like red leather armchairs that feel appropriate for the quite official location. All include either efficiency kitchenettes or full kitchens, which feature at least a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee machine (those with full kitchens obviously include more appliances). Larger rooms are suitable for families and have sofa beds and separate living rooms. There are 32-inch flat-screen TVs in each suite, along with DVD players and cable channels. Other standard features are air-conditioning, clock radios with MP3 docks, irons and ironing boards, and free Wi-Fi.  Bathrooms are small, but continue the contemporary style, with modern fittings, granite surfaces, vessel sinks, and shower/tub combos. Counter space is limited, but there are handy shelves to store belongings. Hairdryers and upscale L’Occitane toiletries are provided. Fully accessible rooms are also available. 

The hotel manages to pack in a decent amount of features into its two buildings, which make it a great three-and-a-half-pearl pick. The charming lounge and lobby area provides a quiet spot to relax (we love the open fire for an extra dash of romance), and the free wine that’s offered on weeknights is a welcome treat. There’s a large, well-equipped fitness center that's open 24 hours a day and has a great range of weight and cardio equipment. There’s also a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms that can be booked by the hour. A free hot and cold buffet breakfast is available in the dining room each day, though lunch and dinner service aren't offered (most guests don't seem to mind). Parking is available on site, but comes at a cost, and free street parking is available on weekends. The hotel offers free bike rentals (though they can run out early in the day) and Wi-Fi is free in all areas. Kids receive welcome toys upon arrival and non-alcoholic beverages at the evening wine reception, and board games are available to loan.