Through rotating art and refined details, The Ven at Embassy Row embodies both Washington, D.C.’s creative pulse and the thoughtful simplicity of Nordic design.
An embassy embodies a country’s story and the spirit of its people. This is the mission The Ven at Embassy Row embraces in its design. The 231-key hotel goes beyond hospitality to symbolize a celebration of place, people, and possibility—both locally and abroad. Tucked amid the storied facades of Washington, D.C.’s Embassy Row, this once-unflagged boutique hotel has been transformed into a reimagined space emphasizing Scandinavian elegance for Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio.
Upon entering, guests and visitors are welcomed into a gallery-inspired environment where hospitality meets artistry, with clean lines and minimalist design setting the stage for intimate, unexpected details. Blonde wood finishes and sculptural forms inspired by the tenets of traditional Scandinavian design create a simple foundation, while bold pops of color draw the eye to evoke the avant-garde visions of contemporary Nordic artists.
A study in refinery, the lobby hints at the grandeur of its international surroundings. Visionary, modernist artists such as Alexis Christodoulou inspire clean lines punctuated by a vibrant, yet sophisticated color story. Archways and unadorned furnishings create a spatial rhythm that guides curious guests through pockets of interest—micro-zones that allow for both interaction and solitude. Using these strategic areas, each corner is crafted to encourage exploration, inviting guests to find their own space within The Ven’s unique atmosphere.
“It’s a space that feels both vibrant and grounded,” says Associate and Design Director, Hannah Markham, CID, NCIDQ, LEED Green Assoc. “Where mid-century influences meet modernist quirks. It’s this interplay that allows guests to return time-after-time and still discover something new. It’s a nod to the past but with an energy that’s unmistakably of the moment.”
A series of lounges connect to the public spaces, bridging the distance between guests and the rich cultural energy of the Dupont Circle neighborhood. Just steps from the Metro, The Ven is situated perfectly for guests to explore the local destinations that inspired the hotel’s design—the district’s embassies, art galleries, and eclectic eateries.
Rotating installations and local artwork bring the neighborhood indoors, making sure each visit offers a new visual experience. This dynamic interaction between art and space transforms The Ven into an art exhibition as much as a hotel, a place where the city’s creative pulse can be felt as well as seen.
“Designing The Ven as a gallery-hotel hybrid offers guests a unique glimpse into the city through the eyes of local artists,” explains Markham. “From the beginning, our vision was to craft a dynamic, ever-evolving destination—one that sparks a dialogue between visitors and the vibrant community outside.”
Dining at The Ven is an experience in itself. It’s an international journey that begins at Fred & Stilla, the hotel’s signature restaurant and bar that captures the global spirit of Embassy Row with a menu fusing international flavors into familiar dishes. Here, the focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients presented in ways that are as visually delightful as they are satisfying. The vibrant color palette of the space complements the flavors on the plate, crafting a setting where guests can savor both cuisine and ambiance.
Meanwhile, the Tag Rooftop Pool and Bar invites guests to enjoy panoramic views over Washington’s skyline as they sip cocktails in a relaxed, unfussy setting. The rooftop is quintessentially The Ven—a minimalist haven with Scandinavian-inspired design, where every detail is considered yet understated, allowing the cityscape to take center stage.
Project: The Ven at Embassy Row, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Location: Washington, DC, USA
Design Studio: Baskervill
Photo Credits: Isaac Maiselman
Website: baskervill.com
