The stunning aerial views of a mountain villa, a fresh blanket of snow covering a serene countryside, and the calm blue waters of a seaside resort, are memorable scenic attractions of a destination getaway. Guests can’t help but take notice of and appreciate all of the beauty surrounding them outdoors. But don’t forget about the equally impressive interiors! From floor-to-ceiling windows, stunning chandeliers and armoires, and glass, tile and marble walk-in showers, these striking design details show off the luxurious inner beauty of B&Bs.
At Grand Victorian Bed & Breakfast in New Orleans, LA, the 18th century-old period furnishings transport guests back to the Old South. Built in 1896, the 14′ ceilings, wood floors, and ornate woodwork interior are architectural features. “I have filled the house with authentic, American furniture from around the same time that the house was built, including marble top dressers and canopied, tester beds,” says innkeeper Bonnie Rabe, whose design details help guests experience Southern splendor at its best. But modern amenities such as personal central air and Internet access do not take a back seat to the period furnishings. “Most of my interior woodwork has been brought back to the natural wood tone. I added stain glass back into the transoms and armoires into every room rather than a closet,” says Bonnie. It’s no surprise that the appeal and charm of this B&B is rooted in the Victorian style and elegant design. Grand indeed.
Chehalem Ridge Bed and Breakfast makes choosing a suite that fits your personality and interests super easy! This Newberg, OR, B&B has turned their 5 room choices into Oregon-themed dream getaways. Love the desert? Then the High Desert Suite, designed with reclaimed lumber and metal to evoke a central Oregon western feel, is the perfect room for you. “Of course we took lots of thought in décor, says innkeeper Kristin Fintel. “I hate it when a B&B is boring. We went with Oregon themes, because we love Oregon and love that there are so many unique regions within the state.” The Wine Country Room has lovely grape vines and leaves on the wall and wine crates serve as night stands. Roses are in full bloom in the Rose Garden Room to pay homage to Portland, the City of Roses. Rustic charm awaits you in The Oregon Trail Room that celebrates eastern Oregon, while The Oregon Coast room uses sea glass colored tiles as accents to a white tiled bathroom. Beauty is everywhere within the walls of this peaceful retreat. And with Oregon’s amazing Willamette Valley as their backyard, the sweeping valley views outside also makes quite an impression.
Run your hands along the original banisters of Inn on Randolph, in Napa, CA, and you will feel the history seeping out of the bones of this 19th century estate. The Inn on Randolph was completely renovated in 2012 to reflect the historic, yet modern home in which the rooms and cottages were built. The innkeepers stayed true to the integrity of the building by using the original banisters, hardwood floors, and bones of the home. Modern comforts, such as heated marble flooring, dual showerheads, large private patio garden, and limestone fireplace, offer boutique luxury in Napa’s largest residential historic district.
Enjoy Frank Lloyd Wright inspired design with elements of Arts & Crafts and Art Deco at Nobnocket Boutique Inn. The unique contemporary interior design of this Vineyard Haven, MA, inn, is island luxury with a twist. “The design embraces a pared-down aesthetic with straight lines, geometric shapes and primary colors,” says innkeeper Simon. Pieces from Moooi and Marcel Wanders are key design accents that showcase Dutch influence. After a day exploring Martha Vineyard, relax in the large common rooms and seating areas adorned with Arts & Crafts pieces, including a reclaimed window from the New York Flat Iron building (built at the same time as the inn) that is converted into a large mirror. “The Vineyard has a long tradition of contemporary design with many of the Harvard Five’s buildings of postmodernism being located here so the contemporary interior design is a respectful nod to the island’s design history,” says Simon.
Take in the gorgeous views of the lake and its surrounding park at Greenlake Guest House, a 1920’s “Craftsman” located in Seattle, WA. After a leisurely stroll outdoors, behold the beauty indoors in one of the 5 comfortable rooms with private baths, jetted tubs, and gas fireplaces. “We wanted the rooms to look somewhat antique but yet still comfortable and modern with clean lines and not too fussy,” say owners Blayne and Julie McAferty. This beautifully furnished B&B has rooms with an antique tropics theme, rustic French theme, beachside décor (faces the lake), classic nautical décor, rustic French theme, and classic nautical décor that deliver a comfortable and relaxing ending to your evening.
Prepare to be pampered with luxurious linens, claw foot tubs, and remote light fireplaces at The Guest House at Gulfport Landing. This Gulfport, MS, B&B makes you feel as though you have stepped into a museum. The décor is striking and beautiful, but guests shouldn’t be afraid to sink down into the French provincial sitting chairs. The antique pedestal sink and dainty makeup mirror in your spacious and bright suite are works of art to be admired and used to your hearts content. “Our home is 110 years old and full of period antiques and we have a large collection of things from times past that we keep in our rooms and public space,” says innkeeper Jason Wilson. “Many of our guests comment that they could make a day just exploring the collection. We really try hard to make our guests feel welcome to the collection and are aware it is there for them.”
Indulge your appreciation for bold and beautiful interior design and plan a getaway at one of these elegantly decorated B&Bs.
