A historic building along Embassy Row, the Churchill has existed since 1906. Built as a luxury apartment house, it still has oversized rooms and a small lobby. In fact, the lobby’s fancy furniture, patterned rugs, and ornate wall detailing make it feel more like an elegant residence than a hotel.
The eight-story (plus basement) Beaux-Arts style hotel was renovated in 2008, when kitchenettes were taken out of the rooms and replaced by private studies with sitting area, desk, coffee maker, and refrigerator. The rooms feature high ceilings and lots of light. The architectural detailing throughout has also been restored.
Because of arrangements with many embassies, the Churchill caters to international travelers. The staff speaks 20 languages, often knows when travelers have come off red-eye flights, and tries to cook requested international cuisine for events.
A cafe, open 6 am to1 am, serves food and Starbucks coffee.
>> For ideas on things to do nearby, go here and here.
Ann Limpert joined Washingtonian in late 2003. She was previously an editorial assistant at Entertainment Weekly and a cook in New York restaurant kitchens, and she is a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education. She lives in Petworth.
