The Charles Hotel in the heart of historic Cambridge has unveiled a series of exciting new updates, promising guests a
bespoke experience that fuses history, modernity and the natural beauty of New England. Embarking on the latest chapter of its iconic 30-year legacy, the storied hotel has recently introduced an elevated collection of suites by renowned interior design firm Bill Rooney Studio, new al fresco drinking and dining spot One Reason Garden Bar and the highly anticipated reopening of celebrated jazz and music venue Regattabar.
“We are proud to turn the page and embark on the latest chapter for The Charles Hotel,” says General Manager of The Charles Hotel, Alex Attia. “With our newly designed suites, the first season of our One Reason Garden Bar and the revival of beloved jazz club Regattabar, we are redefining what it means to experience Harvard Square at The Charles Hotel.”
New Collection of Elevated Suites
The Charles Hotel is thrilled to introduce a new collection of suites, marking the final phase of the hotel’s property-wide enhancements including their Thierry Despont designed lobby and cocktail bar Noir. The new suites were thoughtfully curated by celebrated designer Bill Rooney. Rooney sought to create an experience that seamlessly merges the rich history of Cambridge and New England with modern design, influenced by art, nature, fashion, and travel. The resulting atmosphere is a harmonious blend of refinement and casual comfort, with shaker style furniture and décor, timeless colors and quality textiles that pay homage to the area’s rich heritage and are emblematic of a welcoming New England home. Rooney’s vision captures Cambridge’s historic charm with a contemporary and artistic touch.
The West Wing Presidential Suite, the crowning jewel of the new collection, features a living and dining room with original artwork, a master bath with free standing tub, dual independent vanities and a separate shower, as well as a private living space adorned with a grand, king-size four-poster bed, a dressing room and a bird’s eye view of Harvard Kennedy School of Government under a canopy of locust trees. The new collection also includes three Chancellor Suites with a king bed, living room, seating and dining area with both a full and a half bath; three Fellow Suites with a king bed with a separate seating and dining area within the same space; and three Deluxe King Rooms. The West Wing Presidential Suite adjoins to both a Chancellor Suite and a Deluxe King Room, enabling guests to combine all three room styles and enjoy their own private wing of the hotel with access from one dedicated secure door, ideal for dignitaries and other influential figures visiting The Charles.
Designed to feel like a timeless New England home, the suites are outfitted with charming classic shaker furniture, board and batten paneled walls, along with breathtaking vistas of Cambridge and the Boston skyline. Guests will relish the opportunity to relax in a master bathroom with charming wooden accents, complete with its own mirror TV, an oversized shower, and C.O. Bigelow bath products. Every detail has been carefully considered, including state-of-the-art technology, a plush waffle bathrobe, slippers, and a 55″ TV to ensure a sumptuous and unforgettable night’s stay.
The Return of Regattabar
The Charles Hotel recently reopened the doors of the iconic Regattabar, a haven for jazz aficionados and music enthusiasts alike. As one of the region’s most iconic jazz clubs, it has welcomed world-class musicians and jazz enthusiasts for decades, and the newly reopened Regattabar promises to bring the soulful rhythms and vibrant melodies back to the heart of Harvard Square. This fall, the Regattabar stage will welcome a wide range of talents including a new artist spotlight on Lumanyano Mzi featuring Kevin Harris and Grergory Groove Jr. on November 17, the Immanuel Wilkins quartet on December 1, and avant-garde jazz master Ivo Perlman and his NYC quartet on December 15.
One Reason Garden Bar
This summer, The Charles Hotel introduced the One Reason Garden Bar, newest al fresco hot spot in Harvard Square just steps from campus and the red line, inspired by that special feeling of time spent with friends. The One Reason Garden Bar’s name honors Tracy Chapman, who began her career busking in Harvard Square. The bar itself is influenced by the cottages of Cape Cod, with its Cedar shingle exteriors and distinctly New England vibe, and is surrounded by picnic tables and umbrellas. Nestled in the heart of the hotel’s courtyard, One Reason Garden Bar offers natural wines, local beers, frozen drinks, light bites for snacking and live music.
