The Eliot Hotel (a.k.a. The Eliot), a cherished destination in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, celebrates its centennial this year. Since its opening in 1925, the Neoclassical landmark on Commonwealth Avenue has been a symbol of sophistication and hospitality. To mark this significant milestone, the boutique hotel underwent a complete renovation of all 95 guestrooms and suites, offering a modern ambiance into a timeless design.

The building was built by the family of Charles Eliot, a local philanthropist and one of the leaders of Harvard University at the turn of the 20^th century. Given its proximity to Harvard Club, The Eliot opened in 1925 as a residential hotel intended to serve retired academics. Nathan Ullian purchased the hotel in 1939, and the property has been owned and operated as an independent hotel by the Ullian family ever since.

Reimagined by local interior designer Alix Keating of AK Design, the renovation infused a more contemporary aesthetic into the traditional look for which The Eliot has always been known. The result is a hotel property that feels updated and fresh while maintaining the sophisticated residential feeling of a boutique heritage property.

© The Eliot Hotel

Nearly every element in the suites, from the richly tailored upholstery to the wooden case goods, was custom designed for The Eliot. Geometric lamps are juxtaposed against Georgian-inspired wood furnishings. Rich detailing and piping add a contemporary layer to the couches, lounge chairs and bedding.

Suites feature two color palettes: one in rich cream and ivory, and the other cool and soothing blues and greys. Hints of gold on lighting details and hardware imbue the space with warmth. Custom artwork, including Boston-inspired intaglios (a design incised or engraved into a material), enhances the residential atmosphere. Each piece has been thoughtfully designed to complement the original crown molding and other historic architectural features to create a sophisticated and timeless boutique hotel experience.

“Celebrating a centennial is a tremendous milestone for us,” said Dora Ullian, owner, The Eliot. “We recognize that in today’s world, it is incredibly rare to have a family-owned and operated hotel. While we are proud of our beautiful building, we are most proud of the on-property team who bring each guest experience to life. Additionally, we are honored to be led by a majority female management team, whose dedication and vision have been instrumental in upholding our legacy.”

© The Eliot Hotel

The hotel’s UNI Restaurant offers buffet breakfast daily and is a seriously good sushi and sashimi bar for lunch or dinner, with a beautiful tasting menu as well. It is not just Asian street food either, as the contemporary Japanese izakaya is a unique and popular guest amenity. The UNI celebrates the The Eliot’s 100th with the introduction of the “C”ocktail to its award-winning beverage list, which features the rich red color of The Eliot brand, and Roku gin, Lillet Blanc, blood orange, makrut lime leaf, cilantro and sparkling wine with a dried orange garnish.

To celebrate the anniversary, The Eliot also debuts the Centennial Escape promotion. Book two nights and receive the third at $19.25. This experience includes overnight accommodations in a newly renovated guest suite, two “C” cocktails served in room, complimentary breakfast for two each morning in UNI Restaurant, and a late check-out of 2 p.m. The Centennial Escape package may be booked, based upon availability, through Dec. 31, here.