2008 Removation at the Millennium Bostonian Hotel: Travel -- Lifestyles

The Millennium Bostonian Hotel Undergoing a
Top-to-Bottom Renovation
by Conrado Bondoc, Executive Editor

Artist's rendering of the new lobby at the Millennium Bostonian Hotel (photo courtesy of The Millennium
Bostonian Hotel)

Since 1982 the Millennium Bostonian Hotel – probably the first “boutique hotel” in Boston – has been known to locals as the “pied-à-terre” with the best location relative to Faneuil Hall Marketplace; and unbeknownst to most visitors, the hotel in the city with the quickest access to and from Logan Airport. But come August 2008, residents and return guests to the Bostonian will find, in effect, a “whole new look.”

While remaining open and fully operational, the Bostonian Hotel recently began a multi-million dollar renovation. This redesign, including all 201 guest rooms and virtually all public space and facilities, will have a distinct local influence, while striving for a contemporary, yet comfortable, atmosphere.

Upon arriving at the Bostonian, the first sign of its renovation will greet you: a brand-new porte-cochere, complete with a fountain made of unfinished bronze at the center. Visitors and guests will find this addition wonderful, especially while awaiting transportation on days with inclement weather.

The new hotel lobby, and most of the hotel’s public areas, will bring forward deep, earthy pastels, particularly deep browns and reds. The lobby will feature very spacious areas and will be decorated with contrasting wood flooring and area carpeting. Furnishings will include red lacquer bookcases, as well as a gas-fed fireplace anchoring a “living area”.

A sample of a redesgned guest room (note the HDTV) (photo courtesy of
The Millennium Bostonian Hotel)

Guest rooms will be updated with an eye to both luxury and the 21st century. New accents include simulated linen wall coverings, faux leopard skin benches, and wood-stained furnishings. Interestingly, the Bostonian has selected guest room linens, pillows, and bed accents from Frette, a well-known purveyor of bed linens which started in Grenoble almost 150 years ago. But in contrast to that feel of “tradition,” the Bostonian is equipping all guest rooms with a 42” LCD television, allowing guests to enjoy the fruits of 21st century entertainment.

Many Bostonians were saddened at the closing of popular restaurant Seasons. However, the Bostonian’s renovation includes a brand new restaurant, as-yet unnamed. This new boite will feature outdor seating, as well as a dining area filled with banquettes, floor-to-ceiling walnut wood blinds, and pendant lighting. The entrance to the new restaurant will be marked with what they call a “floating bar”, featuring a 16-foot high wine rack with edge-lit glass.

Having been a favorite with business travelers, vacationers, and even city residents for over 25 years, this renovation of the Millennium Bostonian Hotel will be very welcome when it’s completed this August.

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