Georgetown’s Hoya Hotel: A New Model for University Hospitality Partnerships

WASHINGTON, D.C. – November 18, 2025 – Georgetown University is poised to redefine its campus hospitality offerings with the upcoming reopening of the Hoya Hotel in the summer of 2026. Managed by Crestline Hotels & Resorts, the renovated 146-room hotel, formerly student housing, represents more than just a physical upgrade; it embodies a strategic shift towards specialized partnerships in university hospitality, a trend gaining momentum across the nation.

The Rise of University-Hotel Partnerships

The Hoya Hotel project arrives as universities increasingly seek to outsource hotel management, leveraging the expertise of companies like Crestline to enhance services, attract events, and generate revenue. This approach allows institutions to concentrate on their core academic missions while ensuring professional hotel operations. According to industry analysts, the benefits extend beyond simple cost savings.

“Universities are realizing that managing a hotel effectively requires a distinct skillset and dedicated resources,” stated one hospitality consultant who asked to remain anonymous. “Outsourcing allows them to access best practices, optimize revenue, and create a more seamless experience for visitors, alumni, and conference attendees.”

Crestline, with its established portfolio of university-affiliated hotels—including properties at Georgia Tech, Emory, Virginia Tech, and Ohio University—brings a proven track record to the Georgetown project. The company’s focus on tailored management strategies that blend hospitality excellence with an understanding of the unique needs of university environments positions it as a key player in this growing niche. The Hoya Hotel marks Crestline’s fifth university hotel affiliation, cementing their experience in this specialized field. This partnership is indicative of a larger movement, as campuses seek to provide the level of service expected in today’s competitive landscape.

Georgetown’s Vision for Enhanced Campus Hospitality

For Georgetown University, the Hoya Hotel isn't merely a place for overnight stays; it's an integral part of a broader strategy to enhance the campus experience and establish the university as a premier destination for conferences, events, and alumni engagement. The renovated hotel will feature 13,000 square feet of meeting space, a full-service restaurant, and a bar, catering to both university-affiliated functions and external guests.

“We envision the Hoya Hotel as a vibrant hub for intellectual exchange and community building,” explained a Georgetown administrator involved in the project, requesting anonymity. “It will provide a welcoming space for visiting scholars, conference participants, and alumni returning to campus. By offering high-quality lodging and event facilities, we aim to attract more events to Georgetown and strengthen our ties with the broader community.”

The renovation project itself is extensive, encompassing all 146 guest rooms and approximately 37,500 square feet of shared public spaces. The design incorporates elements that reflect Georgetown’s rich history and mission, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. The project aims to serve the broader Georgetown community by hosting events, programs, and gatherings, establishing the hotel as an important venue for campus and community interactions.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity: A Design Challenge

Transforming the former student housing into a modern hotel while preserving the character of the Georgetown campus presented a unique set of design challenges. The project team carefully balanced the need for updated amenities and contemporary aesthetics with the desire to maintain the architectural integrity of the building and its surroundings.

“It was crucial to create a design that felt both modern and timeless,” stated an architect involved in the renovation, speaking anonymously. “We wanted to honor the history of the campus while creating a space that would appeal to today’s discerning travelers. This involved carefully selecting materials, colors, and furnishings that would complement the existing architecture and create a cohesive design aesthetic.”

The design team incorporated several features to reflect Georgetown’s history and mission, including artwork and historical photographs that showcase the university’s legacy. The hotel’s interior design incorporates elements of the surrounding neighborhood, creating a sense of place and connection to the local community. The Hoya Hotel aims to provide guests with a luxurious and comfortable experience while celebrating the unique character of the Georgetown campus.

The competition within the Georgetown hospitality market is fierce, with the recent opening of the Canal House hotel, and upcoming citizenM Hotel, adding to the landscape. The Hoya Hotel will face competition, but its on-campus location and focus on serving the university community provide a distinct advantage. The influx of new hotels into Georgetown demonstrates the city’s growing appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travelers.