The polished marble lobby of The Godfrey Hotel Boston is pure black-and-white drama. This first impression was followed by a speedy check-in, as the receptionist told me about the complimentary breakfast and free WiFi; I didn’t need the offered help with my luggage.

The elevator alcove was like stepping back a century. A vintage marble staircase is elegantly encased by inlaid marble walls, all carefully preserved from the original building. Skillfully transformed from a classic early-1900s commercial block, the newly opened hotel reveals just enough of these origins to be interesting. Elaborate stucco work decorates the ceiling, and arches above elevator doors are supported on clustered columns. The fast card-enabled elevator brought me back to the 21^st century with a smooth ride to the 11^th floor.

Daylight filled my room, from a solid wall of windows overlooking downtown rooftops. The sun highlighted the white comforter on the king-sized bed and the oyster-colored walls, nicely offset by a russet upholstered chair. The small, glass-topped desk doubled as a nightstand and was well-equipped with business-friendly outlets and USB ports.

The bed was dressed in Frette linens; the small closet held a bathrobe, slippers, removable hangers, an iron and ironing board. The bathroom was large, with a rain shower, wide marble vanity, light-surround mirror, makeup mirror, detachable hair dryer and Heely of London amenities. The room was well-insulated from city noise.

The following morning, I had more chance to admire the lobby, where guests sat at small tables and on chairs and sofas in attractive lounge areas. The lobby bar had become the breakfast buffet, with juices, fresh fruit, a wide selection of breakfast pastries, coffee and premium-brand teas. Even in the elegant, spacious lobby, there is the feel of a boutique hotel.

A few steps from the Downtown Crossing T station, a block from the Common and a couple of blocks from the financial district, Boston’s newest Element Hotel is smart, sleek and supremely comfortable.

The Godfrey Hotel Boston

505 Washington St.
Boston, MA 02111
tel 617 804-2000