NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Nestled between the quaint homes and chic restaurants of Nashville’s historic neighborhood of Germantown sits the brand new Germantown Inn, which opened Dec. 16. Located in one of the oldest buildings in Germantown, a two-story, Federal-style house constructed in 1865 has been reimagined into an inspired six-bedroom luxury boutique inn. Known in the neighborhood as “The Wallman House” for the building’s first owner, H. H. Wallman, a prominent shoemaker for the city’s elite at the time, the property features a red brick exterior, tall ceilings, large picture windows, an outdoor courtyard and a private rooftop terrace with downtown and neighborhood views.
Throughout the inn, modern textures and updated amenities find balance with the original character of the historic property for a contemporary and functional space. The design, led by Nashville-based interior designer McLean Barbieri, features custom pieces that were commissioned from local artists to highlight the vast creative talent found in Nashville. Drapery fabric created by Andra Eggleston, wallpaper and wall installations from New Hat Projects and custom lighting designed by the Nashville-based Southern Lights Electric are a few of the features that are exclusive to the inn.
“We wanted the spaces to feel sleek and updated but not lose the historical charm of the property,” says Barbieri. “It was also important to us to utilize the creative resources in Nashville, so the highlights of the design come from artists, graphic designers and other creatives right here in town.”
Each of the six, light-filled suites is named for a former United States president with connections to Tennessee. Local artist and graphic designer Caitlin Mello created the colorful presidential portraits that hang in each suite. The original artwork emulates the unique and quirky characteristics of each president and weaves in elements that reflect their respective connections to the region.
Jim Creason, managing partner of the inn and owner of Germantown-based Trust Development, oversaw the renovation and construction of the property along with partner, Phil Hyde. The inn’s proximity to downtown Nashville makes it ideal for business travelers and sightseers alike and, steps from some of the city’s best restaurants and boutique shopping, offers guests a uniquely Nashville experience.
“Historic Germantown is such a special place to Nashville, so our goal in transforming the property into an inn was to share the uniqueness of the neighborhood with visitors,” says Creason. “We’re thrilled to be opening and becoming a part of the fabric of this community.”
