Riggs Hotel

Constructed in 1891 as the headquarters for Riggs National Bank, this historic building was reimagined into a five-star hotel while retaining original features, such as the pillars, ceilings, and bank vault.

GHT provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering design and commissioning services for this historic renovation.

The newly renovated Riggs Hotel welcomes guests with a lobby and reception area that reflects the building’s history by incorporating the original pillars and ceilings. The hotel has several dining options, including Café Riggs, a restaurant that serves an all-day menu from the bar, café, and dining room. Nestled in the historic bank vault in the basement is Silver Lyan, a bar and lounge designed by the internationally renowned Mr. Lyan. Additional guest amenities include a renovated fitness center and rooftop amenity space, equipped to host events with meeting rooms, a bar, and food preparation areas. To support the rooftop amenity, GHT relocated and replaced the existing rooftop MEP equipment with high-efficiency HVAC units. The rooftop event space utilizes a VRF system, which reduces the baseline energy use by 60%.

The emphasis on energy efficiency and controllability extends throughout the building by integrating building automation controls and daylight harvesting. The guest room HVAC units and LED light fixtures also optimize energy savings through occupancy/vacancy sensors.

Following construction, GHT’s Commissioning team conducted a pre-functional review, systems commissioning review, and functional performance tests to ensure the building’s optimal performance.