Dash Design transforms Cambridge’s newest independent hotel

This April, the Freepoint Hotel will open as the newest independent hotel in Cambridge, Mass.. Located in the Fresh Pond neighborhood, Freepoint takes over the space formerly inhabited by the Best Western Plus Hotel Tria following a renovation.

The hotel was acquired by Philadelphia-based hotel management company HHM in February 2016. With the renovation, the property will join the Independent Collection, HHM’s portfolio of lifestyle hotels.

Interior design firm Dash Design oversaw the recent renovation of the hotel. To create an authentic Cantabrigian experience for guests, the firm collaborated with Cambridge Arts Council and Living Proof and Public Radio Exchange (PRX).

The art-centric exterior façade will have a mural measuring 25’ wide by 30’ high.

The lobby will have an open design, and a mix of raw and refined elements, including warm woods of oak and walnut, and mixed metals in the form of blackened steel and brass. Neutral tones with eclectic color accents will also be incorporated here. Wood parquet flooring will pay homage to old world Cambridge, juxtaposed against a curated collection of artwork that pays homage to some of the local contributions, from the Fig Newton to the printing press. A three-dimensional art installation, inspired by another Cambridge-born invention (the Polaroid), will also be displayed.

There will be another statement art piece directly behind the reception desk.

The lobby will also have lounging areas, and art sourced and curated by the Cambridge Arts council that will adorn the walls. Another key feature will be a screen made entirely of oars, in reference to the collegiate tradition of rowing the Head of the Charles River each autumn. A bar and restaurant space will round out the lobby experience.

The property will have a secret garden located just off the bar and lounge, completely encased by glass windows. Upon entering through a sliding glass wall, this open air atrium will stretch up to an exposed sky while embracing a nature inspired interior design that includes fire pits, greenery and a cluster of birch trees that will peak through the al fresco roof.

The guestrooms will be loft-like spaces with a collegiate touch. The color scheme will include greys with pops of color. Each guestroom will have locally sourced artwork, including an exposed brick wall that will further emphasizes an industrial chic design. Additional décor will include a sectional sofa, oversized desk, 32-inch flat screen television, mini fridge and bedside USB charging station. Each bathroom will have hex faux wood floor tiles, stacked elongated subway wall tiles and walk-in rain shower or a full tub with a rain showerhead.