The W Hotel Washington DC opened last month at the former site of the historic Hotel Washington, just steps from the White House. Los Angeles-based designer Dianna Wong mixed the building's historic Beaux Arts architecture with the brand's vibrant and edgy designs. The W Living Room, AKA the lobby, features many of the building's original architectural elements, like the famed plaster moldings, playful chandeliers and majestic arches. Wong calls the design theme of the hotel “pinstripes and black lace, a duality between masculine and feminine.”…Wilson Associates launched Blueplate, a new studio offering specialized restaurant consulting and design services … Built in the 1950s, the Sheraton Yankee Clipper Hotel closed in June and will undergo a multi-million dollar renovation before reopening in January as the Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel. The hotel's distinctive exterior will get a fresh look while retaining its nautical theme … The 105-year old Westin St. Francis in San Francisco just completed a two-year, $40-million transformation led by locally based Kevin Joyce Design. All 614 guestrooms now feature custom-designed classic dark wood furniture topped with gold and silver granite, luxurious bronze-patterned carpeting, light-colored wall coverings, contemporary abstract artwork and velvety chaise lounges … The Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza recently finished a $20-million renovation of 521 guestrooms and the meeting and public space. Also added was Italiasia, an Italian and Asian fusion concept restaurant … Grumman/Butkus Associates promoted John Tsingas, P.E., LEED AP, to associate vice president of the Evanston, IL office …Therese Virserius Design has unveiled its plans for the first phase of renovations at the Hyatt Regency Montreal. It will include a rehab of the ballrooms, pre-function and meeting spaces with a chic, sophisticated look. The three spaces will include artwork, vibrant hues and unique lighting reminiscent of influential art galleries in Montreal. The rooms will also use TVD's new exclusive line of furniture from American of Martinsville.