CHARLOTTESVILLE, Virginia—Keswick Hall in Charlottesville, Virginia, announced it has been inducted into Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and promoting historic hotels in the United States.
Keswick Hall is one of more than 300 hotels and resorts throughout the country that is recognized by Historic Hotels of America for preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture, and ambiance.
“Historic Hotels of America is delighted to induct Keswick Hall, a former private residence built in 1912,” said Lawrence Horwitz, executive vice president, Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “We commend Keswick Hall owners Molly and Robert Hardie and leadership team for their careful historic preservation work, stewardship, and vision that will allow future generations of travelers to experience this unique historic destination.”
To be selected for membership in Historic Hotels of America, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.
“We are honored to have Keswick Hall recognized as a member of Historic Hotels of America,” said Molly Hardie, owner, Keswick Hall. “My husband and I see ourselves not just as owners of this storied property, but as stewards of its legacy. Preserving its rich history while enhancing its timeless elegance is both our passion and our responsibility. This recognition underscores our commitment to celebrating the heritage and charm that make Keswick Hall truly special.”
Keswick Hall has a storied history beginning in 1912 as Villa Crawford, the private residence of Robert and Lizzie Crawford. Over the years, the estate has seen various transformations, including a revival in the 1990s by Sir Bernard Ashley, husband of the famed designer Laura Ashley. His vision transformed it into a luxury hotel that became known for its chintz-filled decor. In 1999, Orient-Express Hotels (now Belmond) acquired the site.
In 2016, Keswick Hall was purchased by its current owners and Charlottesville locals, Molly and Robert Hardie, who oversaw a comprehensive renovation spanning over four years. The project, completed in 2021, sought to blend the estate’s history with modernity. The extensive renovation enlisted the expertise of Hart Howerton, L’Observatoire International, and Nelson Byrd Woltz. They worked together to honor the estate’s past while introducing contemporary design.
The resort now has 80 guestrooms and public spaces with curated works from local artists, including photography, pressed plant art, and abstract paintings that celebrate Virginia. Crawford’s Bar, located in the original Villa Crawford, serves as the center of the estate. Adjacent is Marigold by Jean-Georges, offering a farm-to-table menu rooted in local ingredients. Guests can also use amenities such as a spa, an infinity pool, a golf course, and tennis and pickleball courts.
