The Bow Hotel—a converted hotel previously known as the Ale House Inn—has been opened in Portsmouth, N.H., by development and management company Lark Hotels. The property is in a historic warehouse in Portsmouth’s waterfront district.
“Lark has proudly been operating in Portsmouth since 2014; a modern loft-style design for The Bow Hotel will connect this space to its historic downtown location and integrate well into the existing style of the building,” Lark Chairman Rob Blood, said in a statement. “With The Seacoast Repertory Theatre located on street level, we hope to connect to Portsmouth's arts scene, providing a modern accommodation where guests can feel immersed in the creative energy of the city.”
Redesign
The Bow Hotel’s 10 rooms have been redesigned by Massachusetts-based design firm Elder & Ash. Airy, loft-like elements and pared-back design highlight an art piece in each room while sculptural furniture and fixtures play with scale and texture, according to the company. In the common space, exposed brick and old timber beams are intended to hint at the building’s industrial history.
“Our design complements the industrial aesthetic found in many of Portsmouth’s converted warehouses and former factories, some of which are now home to galleries, artists' studios, and performance spaces, explained Elder & Ash Principal, Megan Kennedy. “The duality of modern design with historical context creates a narrative that reflects the city's identity and is a perfect backdrop for art lovers too.”
The property will have guest amenities such as a pantry for patrons to purchase a curated selection of snacks, beverages and espresso. Lark also owns and operates the nearby Hotel Portsmouth, which underwent a full redesign in 2024.
Founded in 2012, Lark is an operator of boutique hotels under 150 keys in North America with a portfolio of approximately 75 independent properties.