The Graduate Hotel recently opened in the former Hotel Deca building in the University District. The 16-story hotel is on Brooklyn Avenue and is adjacent to the University of Washington. The building, built in the 1930s, underwent a full-scale renovation to all guest rooms, meeting and event areas, the fitness center and the hotel lobby.

The renovation preserved many of the building’s Art Deco historical features, while also incorporating the city’s modern Pacific Northwest vibe.

There are two 18-foot purple-plaid sofas, a fireplace and a two-story wall of vintage amps and speakers in the lobby. There are purple details throughout the building that represent the Husky color scheme. Custom Dungeness crab wallpaper adorns the guest rooms and the artwork celebrates the city’s local heroes, such as astronaut Michael P.  Anderson and rapper Sir Mix-A-Lot. The black-and-white floor tiles and pale pink walls maintain an Art Deco palette.

Public transportation is easily accessible from the hotel.

The Graduate Hotel chain includes 12 hotels across the country. Each hotel is near a university. The decor reflects each school and community’s individual personality. The company plans to open another 10 hotels by 2020.