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Preserving and restoring an architectural gem

by Ivanka Trump

February 21, 2012 - Categories: Blogs,

Preserving and restoring an architectural gem

It was an exciting day earlier this month when we learned that we were selected by the U.S. General Services Administration to redevelop Washington, D.C.’s iconic Old Post Office Building and transform it into a luxury hotel under the Trump Hotel Collection brand. Having gone through a long process against formidable competition, we were honored to be chosen by the GSA to be the building’s sponsor, investor, developer, brand and operator, serving as stewards of this historic treasure for generations to come. The stunning Richardsonian Romanesque Revival building, with its unrivaled Pennsylvania Avenue location, was built in 1899. Its soaring clock tower affords 360-degree views of the District. There’s simply nothing like it anywhere. 

At the core of our redevelopment plan is preserving the integrity of this historic building. In addition to the high-caliber features and amenities expected of our brand, Trump International Hotel, The Old Post Office, Washington, D.C., will include a curated museum detailing the history of the storied building and Congress bells, an exhibition gallery, and indoor and outdoor gardens. The hotel will attract a global clientele, offering more than 260 expansive guest rooms, penthouses and presidential suites; world-class restaurants; a café, bar and lounge; extensive banquet, ballroom and meeting facilities; a library; and The Spa at Trump.  

In transforming the Old Post Office into a hotel, we’ll draw upon the Trump organization’s extensive experience with other historic properties starting with the Commodore Hotel at Grand Central Station in New York City. My father saved this hotel when he bought it from the bankrupt Penn Central railroad and converted it into the Grand Hyatt in 1980. As part of this renovation he was also tasked with restoring the façade of the landmark Grand Central Terminal. Following that success he went on to repurpose and renovate many other historic buildings, including The Plaza Hotel, 40 Wall Street and Mar-A-Lago. 

We have a lot of work ahead of us, and we couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity. It is an honor and a privilege to have been selected for this important project, and we will not disappoint. We look forward to unveiling a finished product that will make D.C. residents and visitors proud.

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