Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. has completed the restoration of Round Robin Bar, which has operated since 1847. Washington, D.C.-based designer Maggie O’Neill led the work, which retains the circular counter and adds murals, portraits and a new food and beverage program.
“Round Robin Bar holds a singular place in the history of Willard InterContinental and the story of Washington, D.C. For nearly 180 years, it has brought together those who have shaped the capital, reflecting the enduring spirit of America as the nation marks its 250th anniversary,” said Markus Platzer, general manager of Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. “This restoration honors that legacy, preserving the bar’s distinctive craftsmanship while ensuring it remains a destination where stories are poured and the conversation continues for years to come.”
Washington, D.C.-area artist Nicole Bourgea painted new murals depicting Jenny Lind’s 1850 visit, the 1859 Peace Convention and the hotel’s Beaux-Arts interior. They are the first permanent artworks by a female artist in the hotel’s interiors. Raydel Blanco, a Round Robin Bar mixologist and artist, painted two acrylic portraits of Henry Clay and Helen Herron Taft.
Guests can use the StraxAR app, developed with Strax Networks, to view one of 12 short films about the artworks.
“The Round Robin has always been a room where history happened. Now it can tell you so itself,” said Eric Singleton, CEO of Strax Networks, Inc. “We made twelve films for twelve works, and a guest simply points a phone at one and the story begins. The building does the talking.”
“Our goal was never to reinvent Round Robin Bar, but to reimagine how to tell the stories that celebrate its extraordinary history and hospitality,” said Maggie O’Neill, designer. “Storytelling guided every design decision, with art and historic artifacts serving as central elements. This vision comes to life through a mural surrounding the circular bar and historic artifacts from the hotel archivist’s private collection. We restored the historic bar, millwork, marble stairs, and original mosaic floor in the lounge, while introducing new herringbone wood flooring and seating upholstered in fabrics that evoke Americana charm. Together, these elements create a warm, inviting setting for cocktails and conversation while honoring the character that makes Round Robin Bar so beloved.”
The cocktail menu includes The Diplomatic Visit, The Last Word and the William H. Taft Barrel Manhattan. The Mint Julep remains on the menu. Executive Chef Gyo Santa directs the food menu.
The project also includes The Nest, a 900-square-foot event space on the mezzanine level above the bar. It follows the 2025 unveiling of the hotel’s 335 restored guest rooms and suites.
