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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / History

Riggs National Bank (historic building)

A stunning example of Richardsonian Romanesque Revival architecture, this 1891 landmark once served as the 'Bank of Presidents' and now operates as a luxury hotel in the heart of Penn Quarter.

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Riggs National Bank (historic building)
www.riggsdc.com, website_hero_img_www.riggsdc.com

What is the Riggs National Bank historic building known for?

Known as the "Bank of Presidents," this landmark building is one of the last remaining examples of Richardsonian Romanesque Revival architecture in Washington, DC.

When was the building constructed and who designed it?

The building was constructed in 1891 and was designed by architect James G. Hill for the Washington Loan & Trust Company.

What is the building used for now?

The former bank building was rehabilitated and reopened in early 2020 as Riggs Washington DC, a 181-room luxury independent hotel.

Where is it located?

It is located at 900 F Street, on the corner of 9th and F Street in the heart of the Penn Quarter neighborhood in Washington, D.C.

What architectural features does the building have?

The building features a granite facade with wide, rounded arches characteristic of the Romanesque Revival style. The hotel's interior design also references the golden age of banking and private safety deposit boxes.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Constructed in 1891, the Riggs National Bank building stands as one of the last remaining examples of Richardsonian Romanesque Revival architecture in Washington, DC. The original structure was designed by architect James G. Hill for the Washington Loan & Trust Company, featuring a granite facade and wide, rounded arches that define its imposing presence at the corner of 9th and F Street. Historically known as the 'Bank of Presidents,' the building occupied a central role in the city's financial district. Its architectural significance was formally recognized in the 1960s when the Joint Committee on Landmarks designated it as a Category II Landmark. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status as a permanent piece of the capital's urban fabric. In early 2020, the property underwent a major renovation and repositioning to reopen as Riggs Washington DC, a member of Historic Hotels of America. The luxury hotel now features 181 guest rooms and suites, with interior designs that pay homage to the golden age of banking by referencing private safety deposit boxes. Visitors can explore the building's legacy through its unique amenities. The property houses Café Riggs, a modern restaurant modeled after European grand brasseries, and a lower-level cocktail bar that is uniquely situated within the original bank vault.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the lower-level bar to experience the atmosphere of the original bank vault.
  • Admire the granite facade and rounded arches from the street corner of 9th and F Street.
  • Allow extra time if you plan to dine at Café Riggs, which is designed as a grand brasserie.

Nearby context

Located at 900 F Street in the heart of Penn Quarter, this landmark anchors the historic financial district of Washington, D.C., providing a stark architectural contrast to the modern developments of the surrounding neighborhood.

Sources

Evidence and links