Six Spots Design Lovers Should Visit in Savannah
America’s first “planned city” offers something for every design lover, with architecture that spans Federal, Victorian Regency, Greek and Gothic Revival, and Italianate styles - sometimes all in one block. The Savannah College of Arts and Design has spurred a more modern revitalization of the town that’s become a haven for art lovers and tourists. Simply wonder in awe (with a drink in hand even, thanks to the lax open container laws) as you make your way to these six spots every design lover should visit in Savannah.
Housed in a once-dilapidated antebellum train station, recent exhibitions at this teaching museum include work by presidential portrait artist Kehinde Wiley and furniture by Wendy White. The permanent collection spans contemporary art, 19th century photography, and the Walter O. Evans Collection of African American Art.
A “design concept experience,” Paris Market is housed in an 1874 Victorian building originally built as a grocer. Its fantastical wares come from all over, but focus on the meticulously designed and charmingly whimsical. Go home with embossed leather coasters, French-milled soap, or perhaps a vintage iron chandelier.
To get the fullest dose of Southern hospitality, stay in a bed and breakfast. The Kehoe House operates out of a restored 1892 Renaissance Revival mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with 13 original guest rooms furnished with antiques. Stroll the courtyard or take in the period decor with hors d'oeuvres and wine in-hand during evening gatherings in the parlor.
Alex Raskin Antiques is a five-story Victorian home filled with 17th and 18th-century pieces, plus a few spirits of the undead. The New York Times called it the antidote to IKEA, and the unrestored mansion is a juxtaposition of exposed floorboards and $45,000 writing desks. Mind your step as you climb through the packed floors, and go home with a wrought iron bed frame or a haunted portrait, your choice.
Travelling by Greyhound isn’t much of a delight, but eating in a restored 1938 Greyhound Bus Terminal in Downtown Savannah is pretty grand. The designers of The Grey describe its interiors as “art deco meets transportation industrial.” The old ticket counter was transformed into an open kitchen, where James Beard-nominated chef Mashama Bailey serves up quail madeira with black strap molasses.
America’s first “planned city” offers something for every design lover, with architecture that spans Federal, Victorian Regency, Greek and Gothic Revival, and Italianate styles - sometimes all in one block. The Savannah College of Arts and Design has spurred a more modern revitalization of the town that’s become a haven for art lovers and tourists. Simply wonder in awe (with a drink in hand even, thanks to the lax open container laws) as you make your way to these six spots every design lover should visit in Savannah.
The “Hostess City of the South” is sure to show you a warm welcome.
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