The Hotel Portsmouth reopening after full redesign; adds new subterranean bar
PORTSMOUTH — Lark Hotels announces the re-opening of The Hotel Portsmouth on Court Street is opening. Originally built in 1881 by the wealthy ship merchant and businessman John E. Sise, the hotel is a classic example of Queen Anne Victorian architecture, and served as one of the Port City’s first independent lodging establishments. Initially acquired by Lark Hotels in 2014, this complete reinvention breathes new life into a storied property with a mix of modern elements and classic Americana motifs.
“From original crown moldings and working fireplaces to meticulous woodwork around its central staircase, we have always been in awe of The Hotel Portsmouth’s architectural charm,” says Rob Blood, founder and president of Lark Hotels and principal of Elder & Ash. “This new look honors the building’s innate beauty and celebrates the rich culture of the city and region in an unexpected way. We’re thrilled to unveil this new take on a quintessentially New England hotel.”
“We find the arts and culture scene of Portsmouth to be unique,” adds Megan Kennedy, Creative Director for Lark Hotels and principal of Elder & Ash. “Historic landmarks like the Strawbery Banke Museum are met with more contemporary counterparts, like 3S Art Space. Venues like Jimmy’s Jazz Club, the Seacoast Repertory Theater and The Music Hall, just to name a few, give our guests an unparalleled opportunity for a cultural experience in this small city. We wanted The Hotel Portsmouth to emulate and add to this experience. Instead of just a place to stay, we aimed for it to tell a visual story of its deeply New England roots, both past and present.”
Led by boutique design firm Elder & Ash, The Hotel Portsmouth’s redesign combines modern sophistication with the warmth of traditional New England charm. Rich reds and blues form the foundational colors of the interiors, complimented by quintessential Americana patterns, lively geometrics and overt nods to maritime history. A myriad of patterns working together create a rich, layered experience that is comfortable yet spirited and feels collected while remaining polished, a design philosophy that evokes and a sense of familiarity. All 32 guest rooms also highlight photographs by American photographer Slim Aarons, alongside contemporary street art, historic original landscapes, and portrait paintings.
A subterranean bar area opening soon, Lucy & John’s, on The Hotel Portsmouth’s base level offers guests and locals a cozy and inviting entertainment space – if they can find it. Outfitted with a billiards table and multiple intimate seating groupings, it serves as the perfect place to gather to end the day. New to the hotel is a full liquor license, allowing for batched cocktails and canned beer and wine alongside light bites. Additional common spaces continue the pull of nostalgia by blending small town American charm with one of a kind furnishings. Behind the reception desk, a gift boutique offers a selection of designer vintage clothing, modern Americana home decor and locally made curios.
For additional information or to book a stay, visit www.thehotelportsmouth.com, call The Hotel Portsmouth at 603-433-1200, and follow @larkhotels and @thehotelportsmouth on Instagram.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: The Hotel Portsmouth reopening following full redesign
