The Watergate spa (lobby here and pool below) is the latest addition to the D.C. hotel that underwent a major overhaul this year.
There’s some hotel buzz coming out of Washington D.C. and we are all ears. The Watergate Hotel has unveiled its $3.5-million luxury spa. That’s the iconic hotel that reopened in June, after undergoing a $200-million renovation. Guests arranging a stay can now book a range of guestrooms, including 24 premier suites, six Diplomat Suites and two Presidential suites. Did we mention the amazing views of the Potomac River? But now, for us, it’s all about the new Argentta spa, which spans for 10,500 square feet below the lobby and is inspired by the Italian word for silver. That precious metal theme is carried throughout the spa; even the pool has mosaic tiles with genuine silver flecks. Other amenities include a whirlpool, sauna, a nail salon, six treatment rooms, and a suite for two.
The signature treatment here is the Argentta Seven Elements Ritual. This seven-part experience uses fresh, organic ingredients to create a toxin-free solution to restore skin. Looking for a refresh? Book the Strengthening Facial, which we hear is highly moisturizing and firming. Best part? The facial uses liquid silver to improve skin’s elasticity. Yes, we just said that. This new spa is also home to an exercise area, which has Technogym cardio and strength machines along with studio space for private boot-camp exercises. Note: Coaching and lifestyle sessions are also offered.
HOT LEADS
Raffles Singapore will undergo a major restoration starting in January 2017. The first phase will refurbish the hotel’s Arcade; the second phase—starting in mid-2017—will overhaul the main building, lobby, and some of the suites. During this time, the hotel will stay open. The hotel will close for the final phase, from the end of 2017 until the second quarter of 2018. Technology upgrades will be a major focus.The interiors will be decorated by award-winning designer Alexandra Champalimaud.
Marriott’s Edition brand will open its first Icelandic property in Reykjavik in late 2018. A recent article in the Iceland Monitor describes it as the country’s “first five-star international hotel.” For the 250-room hotel, U.S. real estate firm Carpenter & Company bought a prime piece of real estate next to the Harpa Conference Center and Concert Hall on the harbor waterfront.
Designer Karl Lagerfeld is launching Karl Lagerfeld Hotels & Resorts, created top to bottom in the designer’s graphic esthetic. In addition to hotels, the brand will also encompass residential properties, restaurants and private clubs. We are still waiting to hear where these new hotels will be built, but we’re banking on Paris, bien sur. Stay tuned.