7 Southern Hotels Giving Us Major Design Inspiration

Consider us inspired!

For many, a successful getaway entails more than just sampling local cuisine, taking in a city’s history, and perusing speciality shops. For discerning travels, securing accommodations that are aesthetically pleasing, centrally located, and comfortable is critical in ensuring a memorable trip. Why check into a major hotel chain when you can book a room at an extremely well-designed space that will make your getaway feel extra elevated and unique? The South is full of eye-catching properties that are must visits for design-loving jet setters. Below, we’re sharing seven hotels—from Louisville to St. Pete—that are extra easy on the eyes.

Hotel Genevieve: Louisville, Kentucky

Located in Louisville’s vibrant NuLu District, Hotel Genevieve—complete with a moody speakeasy and a full service restaurant—is Instagrammable from all angles, but Bar Genevieve in particular is truly not to be missed. Vintage lovers will fall head over heels for the gold, ornate overmantle mirror and glimmering crystal chandelier positioned in the bar area. On sunny days, patrons can enjoy signature cocktails from the adjoining rooftop while perched on pattern-filled seating. Guest rooms at the Hotel Genevieve lean more contemporary in style and contain peppy touches including scallop-trimmed curtains, nature-inspired art prints, and whimsical wall colors.

The Chloe: New Orleans, Louisiana

Located in the Uptown area of New Orleans, The Chloe is a small but mighty 14-room hotel housed in a 19th century mansion, making it an excellent destination for history and design buffs alike. Local designer Sara Ruffin Costello made her mark on the space, weaving in a mixture of vintage and custom pieces—such as whimsical works of art, which can be found in every room—and drenched each space in moody tones. Chairs upholstered in William Morris fabric command attention in the guest rooms and front lobby area. Transport yourself to a different era en route to the bathroom (certain rooms feature an armoire-turned-foyer that leads to the loo). Before bed, take a soak in the in-room clawfoot club that is also included in certain suites.

Hotel Bennett: Charleston, South Carolina

Prominently positioned on bustling King Streets, known for its wide array of must-visit shops and restaurants, Charleston’s Hotel Bennett is a high-end respite ideal for solo, group, and business travelers alike. Notably, the hotel is home to Cameilla’s, a tea room full of feminine flair with a touch of Charlestonian charm—look for the palm tree-inspired pilasters spread throughout the perimeter. From its mirrored ceilings to the oversized sparkling chandelier to the cozy, floral-adorned booths, Cameilla’s is full of photo-worthy moments and is an excellent space to enjoy a spot of tea before retreating to one of the elegant, contemporary guest rooms upstairs.

The Drayton: Savannah, Georgia

Step foot into the Drayton Hotel lobby and you’ll be greeted with decor that is decidedly cool: think pops of jewel tones, a wall chock full of plants, and globe-style chandeliers that immediately draw the eyes upward. Petite bistro tables make it easy to catch up on work while watching the comings and goings inside this downtown Savannah hotspot. Stylish touches continue in the adjoining hotel restaurant, St. Neo’s Brasserie, which boasts a verdure-inspired wall mural and cane seating.

The Graduate: Nashville, Tennessee

Whether you’re wild about Dolly Parton or are simply looking to embrace your vibrant side, Nashville’s Graduate Hotel is a color-lover’s dream come true. Each bedroom is a pattern enthusiast’s dream and features a dreamy canopy-style bed (above which hangs an art print of Dolly herself). The fun continues upstairs at the hotel’s signature White Limozeen bar, which successfully fuses Parisian, glam, and art deco styles. The fun continues on the rooftop, a pink paradise that’s extra ideal for girls weekends and mother-daughter getaways.

The Inn at Little Washington: Washington, Virginia

A high-end getaway most often reserved for anniversaries and other significant milestones, The Inn at Little Washington is home to 23 guest rooms and suites scattered across several buildings. The property attracts visitors from all across the globe, who descend upon the rural Virginia property for some much needed R&R (and 3 Star Michelin dining under Chef Patrick O’Connell, who opened the Inn himself back in 1978). O’Connell designed the property in conjunction with London-based Joyce Conway Evans, and every space within the Inn is truly a sight to behold. Expect fabric-covered ceilings and fringe detailing.

The Don CeSar: St. Petersburg, Florida

Dubbed “The Pink Palace,” the iconic Don CeSar Hotel in St. Petersburg, Florida, is must visit for anyone who cannot get enough of the peppy hue, which has risen even further in popularity within the past year, thanks to all things Barbiecore. The oceanfront resort is excellent for couples and families alike—post up poolside or under a beach cabana before enjoying an afternoon refreshment at the Lobby Bar, which received a complete transformation in 2020 and includes plush cane seating, sculptural light fixtures, and expansive windows offering sweeping views of the palm trees dancing outside. Playing off of this theme, guest suites feature a peppy pink flamingo themed wallpaper, oversized headboards, and contemporary gold decorative sconces.

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