Photos: Four Seasons Hotel Boston

The dramatic redesign of the porte-cochere is just one of the changes we noticed on arrival. Designer Ken Fulk paid attention to all the details when transforming the first floor into something that gives the feel of a traditional New England mansion – from the rich green color of the entryway to the light fixtures that are reminiscent of the old gas lamps on Beacon Hill’s cobblestone streets.

The lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel Boston used to be all woodwork and dark flooring before its redesign. Now, it made us feel like we were entering a stately residential home. Architectural details like curved archways and beautiful decor elements, such as the large mural depicting the Public Garden behind the front desks (also notable as they’re in the style of old steamer trunks), steal the show. Light fixtures from Austria complete the scene.

Children get their own VIP experience upon arrival at the hotel. The staff gives them a special kids-only key to open a hidden room (aka the Mystery Closet) located behind the front desk. Inside, the room is full of classic toys; kids can pick an item to keep and bring home.

What used to be one long open hallway has now been divided into several public spaces, each with its own distinctive feel and purpose, thanks to Ken Fulk and his design team. Adjacent to the lobby is the library, which has built-in bookshelves and plush velvet seating where guests can relax with a drink from Coterie and simply watch the world go by. Inspired by the home of a collector or world traveler, there are lots of layers to the decor.

A new offering at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston, Coterie is an intimate venue that serves New England cuisine with a French twist. The restaurant is primarily a guest amenity, although walk-ins from outside of the hotel are welcome. In the bar and lounge area, original artwork featuring botany from the Public Garden as well as famous literary figures who’ve lived, taught or written about Boston, adorns the walls.

The Gallery is a unique space that serves multiple purposes. Guests often enjoy drinks from Coterie or the Sottovento Coffee Bar here, but it is also a popular spot for wedding photos – particularly on the grand landing of the staircase overlooking the Public Garden.

The second floor of the hotel is devoted to the many available spaces for meetings and events. In this open area, guests can make use of the tables and couches (which have plenty of charging outlets built into the furnishings) and order in-room dining from the Four Seasons app.

Suite categories and above, such as this state suite, include elevated amenities. A Nespresso machine, reusable aluminum water bottles and a minibar of premium spirits are just some of the luxury touches that await visitors. Guests can customize their minibar with a QR code.

While most standard rooms feature either a stand-alone shower or a shower/tub combo (depending on the room’s location within the hotel), state suites include a deep soaking tub. After a busy day of sightseeing, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a good soak.

Located on every floor, The Vaults are a new amenity aimed at satisfying all your snacking needs. Guests have 24/7 access with a room key and can grab movie theater-sized candy, fruit-flavored water and other goodies whenever the mood strikes. Each floor features its own theme, so be sure to ride up and down to check them all out.

As one of the few outdoor courtyards in the city, The Sanctuary at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston is special. While many outdoor spots at Boston hotels are at or near street level, being on the eighth floor gives this space a real sense of privacy. Guests can use the British phone booth (a nod to the London location) or the Four Seasons app to order in-room dining to enjoy alfresco.

The Sanctuary can also be used for events, receptions and small weddings. While the hotel is still narrowing down the details, they plan to offer special amenities in the winter months, such as furs and hats, along with special treats like hot chocolate or roasted chestnuts.