The story of The Dean is one for the ages. You know the type, each layer revealed is more gritty and juicier than the ones before. The landmark building, erected in 1912 as an Episcopal refuge for the city’s downtrodden, fell to a life less holy when strippers and hookers moved in for what some might call ‘a religious intervention’. Fast forward to recent times, when Ari Heckman, a homegrown native of the capital city, envisioned a classier chapter for this Downcity haunt.
Heckman, founder and CEO of Brooklyn design firm ASH NYC, partnered with other ‘Rhody’ investors, and set out to transform the storied facade into a 52-room getaway for Northeast hipsters, Ivy League parents and jetsetters alike. The result, a boutique hotel marked by a colorful past and upgraded with swoon-worthy accents, achieves the academically sought-after perfect score. From custom-made light fixtures by way of Vermont, to steel desks and bed frames courtesy of the local Steel Yard, The Dean’s arrival is a nod to the region’s creme-de-la-creme in interior design and artistic craftsmanship. Forever faithful to our textile roots, we’re head-over-heels for the Maine-made Brahms Mount blankets, woven exclusively to ward off deep winter chills in the heart of New England. And requisite of any establishment hosting the chicest of travelers, a signature scent crafted just for The Dean by everyone’s favorite perfumer.
As one might expect, the details are many, meticulously curated and strategically placed. Outfitted like the finest of English dandies, the hotel has tones of old-school prep, matured and evolved for life’s next step. Vintage furnishings sourced from home and abroad? Check. Antique rugs on aged wood floors? Check. Blue velvet couches for lazy lounging? Check. Ebony wainscoting and brass fixtures galore? Check and check. The list is long, and oh so sweet.
As if the property wasn’t happenin’ enough, three in-house hotspots are soon to debut: Faust – a biergarten in the grandest of German tradition, The Magdalenae – a cocktail lounge helmed by Providence’s most notable barman, and The Boombox – a private karaoke bar for wild nights and impromptu sing-offs. And for those of you who prefer to let loose in the company of pastries and pour-overs, The Dean is home to a mean cup ‘o joe, which we dare to attest, 100% challenges the best of the west.
The Dean | 122 Fountain Street | Providence . RI | dial 401.455.DEAN
Images courtesy of The Gilded Lobster and The Dean.
