Last Updated on September 5, 2026
The Washington Inn, Santa Fe’s first new construction hotel in decades, officially opened its doors to guests on September 1, 2026, bringing a new type of accommodation to one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. With 27 suites ranging from studios to three-bedrooms, the locally owned property is located two blocks from the Santa Fe Plaza. The location allows guests easy access to Santa Fe’s museums, galleries, restaurants and historic sites, all while providing a quiet retreat away from main thoroughfares.
Conceived as an alternative to the traditional hotel stay, the Washington Inn was designed to give travelers the comforts of a private Santa Fe residence while staying within walking distance of the Plaza. Developed by two local families, the Bertrams and the Duettras, the suites at The Washington Inn feature living rooms, dining rooms, full kitchens, and washers and dryers.
Suites range from 321 square feet to nearly 2,000 square feet with Made In® cookware, L’Occitane toiletries, and gas fireplaces. A fitness center, Clearlight Infrared Sauna, dog relief area, and boardroom are also available on site. With three studios, 10 one-bedroom suites, 11 two-bedroom suites, and three three-bedroom suites, the suites offer ample space for families, couples, groups, or solo travelers seeking additional room.
“We wanted to create the kind of place we would want to stay when visiting another city,” said owner Marc Bertram. “You can spread out with your friends or family, cook a real meal, but still walk out the door and see the best of Santa Fe. It feels personal and residential rather than a traditional hotel room.”
Designed by local architecture firm Architecture Alliance, The Washington Inn unfolds across four distinct buildings: a historic renovation of two 1950s buildings, a new-construction casita, and a new-construction addition to one of the historic buildings. Rather than replicate the traditional Pueblo Revival that is synonymous with the city, the property features a much more contemporary aesthetic. The architecture and design teams drew inspiration from the Territorial style of the original 1950s office buildings with stacked stone, clean lines and brick detailing. The historic facades have remained largely untouched, while the new construction incorporates many of the same architectural details.
The interiors were designed by 4D and are modern yet cozy, with a color palette that reflects the high desert landscape: soft muted browns, vibrant reds, and calming sage that contrast with whitewashed walls. Every space celebrates a blend of art traditions — from folk to modern to quintessential Southwestern. Ownership commissioned local Santa Fe artist Lee MacLeod to create a custom oil painting of Diablo Canyon that adorns the lobby.
“We wanted the art to feel especially impactful and varied, like eclectic art in a high-end home,” said designer and owner Sydney Shults. “All the oil paintings highlight different subjects including abstracts, landscapes, and portraits. The art is filled with beautiful colors while still feeling undoubtedly Southwestern.”
The Washington Inn is located at 220 Otero St in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For reservations, please visit thewashingtoninnsantafe.com or call 505-416-8711.
