3 Boston Hotels Unveil Stylish New Looks


Boston has a long-held reputation as a traditional city-in a good way-with historical landmarks and a panoply of architectural styles dating back to Colonial times. In recent years, though, modern spires have mixed into the city’s skyline and in the last few months, three of the city’s most famous hotels have emerged from major refreshes that more than bring them in line with contemporary times.

The third designer, Ken Fulk, really went into overdrive creating the look for the rooftop restaurant Contessa, the first Boston outpost of the Major Food Group known for its popular restaurants Carbone and Sadelle’s and currently the hottest restaurant opening in the city. The décor is theatrical from the moment guests enter the separate entrance next door on Newbury Street, winding through a hallway marked by large mosaic tiles, a mural of a whimsical banquet and images of starlets eating spaghetti. Up on the roof, the setting seems to be the bygone era garden of an Italian countryside resort or estate achieved through velvet banquettes, fringed overhanging lampshades, vintage Art Deco lanterns, marble floors and a multitude of shrubs. Only the panoramic Boston views through floor to ceiling windows bring you back to the city. The menu covers several regions (but not the south of Carbone) including classic Tuscan dishes such as Bistecca Fiorentina and tortellini in brodo, Genoese fusilli and Veal Milanese. Tables book up a month ahead.