Stonehurst Place: Atlanta’s Best Kept Secret

Stonehurst Place, located in the heart of Midtown, is without a doubt Atlanta’s best kept secret. This historic mansion, originally constructed in 1896, unfolds a narrative that intertwines the comforts of a modern luxury bed and breakfast with the opulence of the Gilded Age.

Guests are greeted by perfectly landscaped gardens, providing a lush escape within the city even in the midst of winter. Mounds of Lenten Roses overflow from the garden beds, a sight I’d truly love to see come February, when they are in full bloom. Wandering along the stepping stones, you get a sense of the views previous inhabitants of Stonehurst Place enjoyed, connecting with the history on a deeper level.

In Shingle Style, borrowing from a blend of Queen Anne and Richardsonian Romanesque styles, the mansion stands as a perfect icon of late 19th-century Atlanta. George Burch Hinman, a London born Engineer and Builder, crafted Stonehurst Place at the young age of thirty-nine, resulting in an exquisite residence that would become an enduring symbol of prosperity.

The mansion’s interiors showcase meticulous restoration, preserving intricate woodwork, leaded glass windows, and period-appropriate furnishings. The attention to detail in the restoration process is unparalleled, every piece capturing the authenticity of its origins.

MEET THE HOSTS

The hosts of Stonehurst Place, Kris and Jason Lahman, are the gracious custodians of this living piece of history, welcoming guests into an immersive experience that seamlessly blends the past with the present. Their commitment to preserving the architectural heritage is evident; beyond their role as stewards of history, Kris and Jason provide a warm and personalized touch to each guest’s stay. We began with a highly informative guided stroll through the rooms that offered us a glimpse into the rich history of the place, which is far more than would fit into one article. Believe me when I say the history alone is worth the visit.

With an attentive and friendly demeanor, Kris and Jason go above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. An assortment of chocolates (my personal favorites were the sea salted caramel) and petit fours are beautifully displayed under glass cloches on the buffet at all hours, and guests may help themselves to coffee or tea in the Music Room at any time of day or night. The hosts of Stonehurst Place embody the spirit of hospitality, making each visitor feel not just like a guest but a cherished participant in the ongoing narrative of this historic gem.

THE SUITES

One of the most notable features of Stonehurst Place is the array of luxuriously appointed suites, each with its own story. The Hinman Suite, where we stayed, was named after George Hinman’s youngest daughter, Cara, who was the last living Hinman to reside at Stonehurst Place. The elegantly adorned suite, once Cara Hinman’s bedroom, blends the charm of its original character with contemporary comfort.

We were enveloped in an atmosphere of refined luxury, surrounded by carefully restored furnishings that pay homage to the mansion’s history. All the door hardware is original, yet so polished you would be convinced each piece is brand new. The furniture is perfectly coordinated, creating a pulled together palette that is especially soothing to the discerning eye.

The Hinman Suite features a stunning canopy bed with neatly pressed fine linens; the oversized pillows are honestly the most comfortable we have ever come across in our travels. The room’s period decor offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of Atlanta’s elite during the late 1800s. Ceiling height custom draperies offer privacy while adding decadence to the room. When opened, soft sunlight filters into the suite, casting a warm glow on the nuances of the space.

The private ensuite bathroom is a work of art in itself. Vintage fixtures and a large pedestal tub harken a time when attention to design was paramount. Yet, seamlessly integrated modern amenities, such as heated tile floors and towel racks, ensure that guests experience the utmost in comfort. The shower is larger than our primary bedroom closet at home and is quite literally like having your own personal spa. The ensuite is a perfect fusion of old and new, creating an indulgent retreat.

THE REVIVAL

Stonehurst Place’s journey through time took a significant turn in the 21st century. The mansion underwent a comprehensive restoration, reviving its original splendor while integrating modern amenities. This commitment to preservation has positioned Stonehurst Place as a unique accommodation in Atlanta – for metro area residents looking for a staycation to travelers from afar seeking an immersive historical experience without sacrificing luxury. This boutique bed and breakfast is truly one of a kind in Atlanta, as there are few places comparable to those that survived the civil war in pristine condition.

The Music Room is a harmonious blend of elegance and nostalgia, offering guests a glimpse into the mansion’s storied past. This carefully curated space pays homage to the musical pursuits of its visitors over the decades. Adorned with art deco themed furnishings and accented by rich woodwork, the room exudes an air of refinement reminiscent of the Gilded Age.

The piano was donated by a guest who decided upon her visit the Music Room simply must have a baby grand. Guests are welcome to play during their stay. The Music Room truly invites visitors to connect with the soul of the mansion.

BREAKFAST

Breakfast at Stonehurst Place is a delightful experience that combines the charm of a bed and breakfast with the culinary excellence of a luxury hotel. Guests are treated to a gourmet morning meal that reflects the property’s commitment to providing a memorable stay.

The day begins with the inviting aroma of French pressed coffee wafting through the air, drawing guests to the elegant dining area. The dining table, formally placed with fine china and linens, sets the stage for a sophisticated yet comfortable breakfast experience. Each place holds a custom menu for the day.

One of the highlights of breakfast is the emphasis on personalized service. Both Kris and Jason take the time to understand guests’ preferences, ensuring that each meal is tailored to individual tastes. Jason, the chef, clearly takes pride in offering a menu that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. He accommodated my celiac husband with an entirely gluten free meal.

The breakfast fare is a fusion of classic and contemporary dishes, prepared with locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Whether someone prefers a hearty breakfast with savory options or a lighter fare with fresh fruits and yogurt, Jason strives to exceed expectations. We were presented with freshly baked croissants and a variety of jams and preserves to complement our meal.

Chef Jason’s creativity shines through in daily specials that showcase regional flavors and culinary innovation. We enjoyed a starter of Honey Vanilla Yogurt with Mixed Berries in a Cabernet Reduction. For our main course offering, Florentine Frittatas were served with an Avocado Breakfast Salad and slices of Hickory Smoked Ham. Everything was artfully plated, and we were offered fresh fruit juices to accompany our meal.

The dining room’s large windows offer views of the beautifully landscaped gardens, allowing diners to appreciate the serenity of the outdoors while savoring their meals. The combination of exquisite food, and a picturesque setting, creates a breakfast experience that is both indulgent and relaxed.

Beyond the culinary offerings, the communal aspect of breakfast at Stonehurst Place adds to the overall charm. Guests have the opportunity to engage in conversation over the long table or to enjoy their meals in quiet. The intimate setting fosters a sense of camaraderie, yet feels quite natural even for a self-avowed introvert.

AN EVENING TO REMEMBER

Upon retiring to our room, we found a chilled bottle of Prosecco and a cloche of freshly baked cookies. We sunk into an effervescent evening, feeling as if we had gone back in time to a sort of Gatsbyesque existence, if only for one night. With the pop of a cork signaling a moment of indulgence, the clink of champagne glasses rang with an air of refined celebration.

Today, Stonehurst Place stands not only as a relic of Atlanta’s past but as a living testament to a lineage of families committed to preserving its heritage. Designated on the National Register of Historic Places, the mansion continues to welcome travelers from around the world to step back in time and relish a slice of the Gilded Age in a setting of modern luxury. This gem, acquired just last year by its current owners, is still somewhat of a secret. But I assure you it won’t be for long. As an Atlanta native, trust me when I say news travels fast in the south once the word is out, so my advice is to experience it now while it’s still in the quiet days of its rebirth.