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Capital Boutique: Washington's Rouge a Cosmetic Wonder, or a Kitchy Blunder?

Where: 1315 16th Street NW [map], Washington, DC, United States, 20036

Hotel Heaven?

Located in bustling, trendy Dupont Circle, The Rouge Hotel is one of several Kimpton properties in Our Nation's Capitol. Convenient to shopping, subway, and nightlife, the Rouge's specialty rooms offer travelers an aesthetic, personalized escape from traditional hotel atmosphere. One is greeted by a row of exterior classical statuary on a quiet section of 16th Street only blocks from The White House.

Here are lush red felt headboards, pie-chart patterned red-and-yellow ottomans, and retro highback leather chairs. The chill room (think "Austin Powers") features white bucket chairs and twin 27" Sony wega t.v. screens. Gourmand? Try the Chow Room, equipped with stainless steel kitchenette. The Chat Room appeals to the techie in you.

Should you tear yourself from this visual treat, you may mingle in the Lounge amongst the throw pillows and the eclectic guests and Happy Hour revelers. There's a bar featuring a flat screen which showcases music videos, the feel is that of a small dinner party in a swank apartment.

The Rouge's amenities include daily Continental Breakfast, and a 24-hour business center in the lobby. After all, one cannot live by spread alone.

[Editor's Note: Ok, that is one side of the coin, now let's here from someone who absolutely hated the place]

Hotel Hell?

To be fair, if you are looking for a "groovy" place to hang out with friend after you've gone to the bar... and you are of a certain age range... then the bright red walls, leopard print carpet, yellow lighting, zebra print bathrobes, checkered rug, red vinyl headboards, orange dresser/minibar, 30 watt lightbulbs and fishbowl mirrors might not offend you. If, on the other hand, you are not looking for some groovy experience, but appropriate lighting and electrical systems.. this might not be the place for you.

[Editor's note: Ahh, so that is why they say opinions are like assholes <--FCC banned, everyone has one.]

Anyone else have a take on the Rouge? Let us know in the comments section