Southeast

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following a nine-year renovation process, The Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C. has reopened its doors after $125 million in upgrades. New York-based developer Euro Capital Properties owns the famous hotel property, which had been closed for renovations since 2007. The hotel consists of 336 guestrooms, half of which include balconies, and 32 suites. Located on the banks of the Potomac River at 2650 Virginia Ave. N.W., The Watergate Hotel was originally designed by Italian architect Luigi Moretti in 1961 to look like a sail on the river. It opened in March 1967, and its name is synonymous with the political scandal that started with a break-in at the Democratic National Convention headquarters, which was located in an office complex connected to the hotel. The scandal would eventually lead to the 1974 resignation of President Richard Nixon. For the renovations, Ron Arad and Italian design firm Moroso added curves and mid-century modern design, while restoring some of the hotel’s original structures such as its staircase and indoor pool. Architectural and interior design firm BBGM was the architect for the project. “The Watergate is undoubtedly one of the most glamorous and illustrious hotels in the world,” says Rakel Cohen, …