Historic Hotels of America Announces the Top 25 Most Magnificent Ceilings for 2018

It’s time to look up and appreciate the stunning architecture that surrounds us.

“Historic hotels are perfect places for romantic getaways or for celebrating special occasions. These beautiful ceilings and domes are unique to these legendary hotels,” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Director, Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “These ceilings are treasures preserved from the past and are wonderful examples of the detail, artistry, and craftsmanship from another time. When you next visit one of these historic hotels, be sure to look up and discover these grand and ornately detailed ceilings.”

A few of the highlights include.

The Willard InterContinental, Washington, DC (1818) – The lobby’s coffered ceiling showcases the 48 original state seals and there’s so much more.  I must confess it’s a personal favorite and definitely something that truly represents DC.

Wentworth by the Sea (1874) New Castle, New Hampshire – The domed ceiling — a site to behold – is a dominant feature of the SALT Kitchen + Bar.

The Jefferson Hotel (1895) Richmond, Virginia

A true old-school property that offers a circular stained-glass ceiling that completes a majority of the room’s 35- foot ceiling.

Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods (1902) New Hampshire

Yet another example of master work with the intricate Italian plasterwork, crystal chandeliers and Tiffany stained glass accents in the Great Hall and Dining Room

La Valencia (1926) La Jolla, California

The original ceiling of the main building was intended to be reminiscent of Spanish Royal Crests and Medallions. And stunning is what it is.

Across the Atlantic there are more properties to behold.  These include.

Hilton Paris Opera (1889) Paris, France

This is one stunning property with works for art (paintings and sculptures) by Charles Joseph Lameire (1832-1910).  

Grand Hotel Tremezzo (1910) Tremezzo, Italy

A unique space that can only be found in Italy.  There are frescoes in the Grand Hotel that represent the scenes of the Aeneid of Virgil and scenes of heaven.

And in Asia you don’t wnat to miss these stunning properties.

The Fullerton Hotel (1928) Singapore

The Straits Room, located on the 71st floor of this stunning property, offers a barrel vaulted cofferred ceiling with stunning crystal chandeliers.    

Hotel New Grand (1927) Yokohama, Japan

The stucco ceiling of the banquet hall otherwise known as the Rainbow Ballroom on the second floor of the main building in the hotel has been widely acclaimed for it plaster work.

The full list can be found here.

Look up and admire the view.

by Elizabeth Atkinson