Seattle's historic Alexis Hotel is wrapping up an extensive $8.5-million renovation, with a focus on integrating gallery-inspired design. Dawson Design Associates has been charged with retaining the Kimpton-managed property's warmth, color and character, while integrating original artwork into the 121 guestrooms and nearly 3,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space.

Guestrooms have been designed in soothing colors accented by vibrant red and and royal blue elements. All rooms feature 300-thread count Frette linen sheets, down bedding, 32-inch LCD HDTV flat screens, honor bars and luxury bath products. Elegant treatments such as Rococo mirrors, ornate buffets and chaise lounges are juxtaposed with modern, minimalist furnishings like a Kielhauer desk chair and stainless steel four-poster bed to create an engaging, stately guest experience.

The hotel's signature Gallery Art Walk houses a rotating collection featuring Northwest artists, selected by Barbara Shaiman, the artistic and managing director of the Seattle Art Museum's Rental and Sales Gallery.

Built in 1901, the Alexis Hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Formerly known as the Globe Building, the facility was renovated in the early 1980s and opened as the Alexis Hotel in 1982. The hotel was purchased by LaSalle Hotel Properties in 2006.