Just in time for its famed cherry blossom season, the Capella Washington DC opened officially this month in leafy, historic Georgetown, one of the oldest districts in the capital city. Set in a square brick building that once housed the American Trial Lawyers Association, the marble and modern art-filled entrance lobby belies the look within.
A diminutive 49 rooms (12 are suites) have antique parquet flooring reclaimed from a French château, soaring ceilings, Italian marble in bathrooms and silk tasseled drapes framing views of the historic C&O Canal (Chesapeake and Ohio). Mod cons include rainfall showers, and in-room technology managed by bedside touch-panel computer screens, with in-room spa treatments available.
A rooftop swimming pool, bar and restaurant offer views across the Potomac River, Kennedy Center and Washington Monument. Every guest gets a 24-hour personal assistant — not a bad thing in a small city brimming with a disproportionate amount of cultural attractions and monuments.
Doubles from £388 (US$595) room only with wi-fi, pressing of five items of clothing, capellawashingtondc.com
