The History of The Dagny Boston

From Boston’s first Art Deco skyscraper to a modern-day destination at The Corner of Work & Play, some stories only get better with time.

Boston has always had a way of honoring its past while making room for what’s next. At The Dagny Boston, we like to think we do a little of both.

Standing proudly at 89 Broad Street since 1928, our home is the historic Batterymarch Building, a landmark that has witnessed nearly a century of the city’s evolution. Before it became The Dagny, before it welcomed travelers from around the world, and long before Downtown Boston looked quite like it does today, this building was already making a statement.

And what a statement it was.

It All Started in 1928

The year was 1928. Boston was bustling with possibility, and a new architectural marvel was rising above the streets of the Financial District.

Designed by architect Harold Field Kellogg, the Batterymarch Building, originally known as the Public Services Building, introduced something the city had never seen before: Boston’s first Art Deco skyscraper.

With its distinctive towers, geometric details, and soaring silhouette, the 14-story building was a celebration of modernity, craftsmanship, and the belief that the future could be something extraordinary.

Nearly a century later, we think that optimism looks just as good as it did in 1928.

Thirty Shades of Possibility

Here’s a little architectural detail we love… The Batterymarch Building wasn’t designed with just one shade of brick. Or two. It was designed with 30 different shades, gradually transitioning from darker tones at street level to lighter hues toward the sky.

This clever design made the building appear even taller, creating a sense of movement and light long before modern architectural trends embraced the idea of verticality.

In fact, according to the Boston Landmarks Commission, the Batterymarch Building was the first building in the United States to use this technique of tonal gradation in exterior masonry.

Look up the next time you pass by. You might discover something you hadn’t noticed before.

A Little History in Every Detail

The beauty of Art Deco has always been in the details, and the Batterymarch Building has plenty worth admiring.

From its three striking towers along Batterymarch Street to its decorative masonry, sculptural entrances, and intricate ornamentation, the building tells a story of Boston at the height of an exciting architectural movement.

Look closely and you’ll find design references celebrating transportation, industry, innovation, and New England history. These weren’t simply decorative flourishes. They reflected the energy of a city embracing progress.

In 1995, the building’s architectural significance was formally recognized when it received Boston Landmark designation, preserving its place in the city’s remarkable history.

Today, those same details remain part of what makes The Dagny one of Boston’s most distinctive historic hotels.

Many Chapters. One Remarkable Address.

A building with this much character was never going to have just one story.

Originally developed as a commercial office building, the Batterymarch Building went on to experience several transformations as Downtown Boston grew and evolved.

In 1999, the building entered a new chapter as the Wyndham Boston Hotel. It later became the Hilton Boston Downtown/Faneuil Hall, welcoming countless guests through its doors.

Then, in 2023, something new began.

The property was reimagined as The Dagny Boston, an independent hotel inspired by its historic Art Deco roots and a fresh perspective on what hospitality could be.

A new name. A new point of view. And a building with nearly a century of stories still to tell.

Why Dagny? We’re Glad You Asked.

Our name is a reflection of everything we believe in.

Inspired by the Old Norse words dagr, meaning ‘day,’ and ný, meaning ‘new,’ Dagny represents a New Day.

It’s a fitting tribute to a building that once symbolized a new era for Boston, and an invitation to discover something new with every visit.

You’ll find that spirit throughout the hotel, from our signature Deco Delight design to the unexpected moments that make a stay memorable.

We believe beautiful spaces should feel inviting. That luxury can have a sense of humor. And that a little whimsy can make even the busiest day feel brighter.

It’s all part of our optimistic approach to hospitality: elevated without being overly formal, thoughtful without taking itself too seriously, and always ready to celebrate possibility.

Where History Meets Work & Play

Our historic address is only part of the story. What happens here today is just as important.

Located between Boston’s Financial District and Waterfront, The Dagny sits at what we affectionately call The Corner of Work & Play.

For some, that means morning meetings followed by an evening exploring the city. For others, it’s a weekend escape, a little time in our Deco Library, or an afternoon discovering the neighborhood.

With 403 guest rooms, including 26 suites, thoughtfully designed gathering spaces, and dining experiences at Fin Point and Tradesman, The Dagny brings a modern sense of comfort to a historic Boston setting.

Just beyond our doors, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston Harbor, and the New England Aquarium are all within easy reach.

Because whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a little of both, we believe there’s always room for possibility.

Here’s to the Next Chapter

Almost 100 years ago, the Batterymarch Building helped introduce a new architectural era to Boston. Today, its legacy continues through The Dagny.

The skyline has changed. The neighborhood has evolved. And our building has welcomed more than a few new chapters along the way.

But the spirit that inspired it in 1928? That feels wonderfully familiar.

A sense of optimism. An appreciation for craftsmanship. And the belief that what’s next can be something special.

After all, every great story deserves a New Day.

Come be part of ours.

Discover The Dagny Boston | Explore Our History

A Few More Things You Might Be Wondering

Is The Dagny Boston a historic hotel?

Yes! The Dagny Boston is an independent hotel housed in the historic Batterymarch Building, a designated Boston Landmark constructed in 1928. Located at 89 Broad Street in Downtown Boston, the property blends its original Art Deco architectural character with modern accommodations and amenities.

What was The Dagny Boston called before?

Before becoming The Dagny Boston in 2023, the property operated as the Hilton Boston Downtown/Faneuil Hall and, earlier, the Wyndham Boston Hotel. The building was originally constructed in 1928 as the Public Services Building, also known as the Batterymarch Building.

What makes the Batterymarch Building special?

Designed by Harold Field Kellogg, the Batterymarch Building is recognized as Boston’s first Art Deco skyscraper. Its distinctive exterior features 30 graduated shades of brick, geometric detailing, and three towers along Batterymarch Street. The building received Boston Landmark designation in 1995.

Where is the historic Batterymarch Building?

The Batterymarch Building is located at 89 Broad Street in Downtown Boston, Massachusetts, near the Financial District, Waterfront, and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Today, it is home to The Dagny Boston.

Ready to learn more on our History? Check out our historic overview page.

Historical Source

Boston Landmarks Commission , Batterymarch Building Study Report

Photo and Artwork credit to ‘THE BATTERYMARCH BUILDING: Boston Landmarks Commission Study Report.’