The Henry Howard Hotel blooms in the Garden District, New Orleans

THE Irish-born American architect Henry Howard cast quite a spell in New Orleans during the 19th century. Over the course of four decades, the influential figure designed over 280 buildings within the state of Louisiana, and became especially famed for his grand townhouses. One of these elegant white constructions, situated on the corner of Prytania Street and Josephine Street, is now an 18-bedroom luxury boutique hotel, aptly named after its creator.

The grand exterior of the Henry Howard HotelThe grand exterior of the Henry Howard Hotel

The Henry Howard Hotel occupies a double gallery townhouse that was built by Howard in 1867. From the outside, it’s truly a stunner, boasting a Greek Revival-style with some Italianate features (think beautiful white Corinthian columns and ornate black balconies). The property is right in the middle of the picturesque Garden District where wealthy Americans and Europeans came to live back in the day. They would ask reputable architects, such as Howard, to create their mansions, and the neighbourhood was developed so that only a handful of houses would be situated per block, each surrounded by extensive gardens. Hence, the area got its name. Incidentally, the hotel has thoughtfully created a walking tour of the area, which guests can use to identify particularly stand-out buildings as well as other must-see local spots, such as Lafayette Cemetery and landmark restaurant Commander’s Palace.

A guest room at the Henry Howard HotelA guest room at the Henry Howard Hotel

Inside, the hotel is equally impressive: 16 feet-high ceilings, glossy wooden floors and antique furnishings immediately draw attention. The guest rooms are spacious and personal, filled with gorgeous touches, such as sculptural iron canopy beds, huge armoires, musical instruments on the wall, walk-out balconies, and local artwork. The beautiful custom wallpaper is by Kathleen Fitzgerald of Brooklyn-based design and photography practice Two Studios, who is also responsible for the hotel’s branding.

A beautiful corner of a guest roomA beautiful corner of a guest room

While many properties refer to themselves as ’boutique’ in nature, the Henry Howard Hotel really seems to have understood what this means. Glass felt completely at home during our recent stay – as though we were staying with a friend who happened to live in a mansion and have excellent taste in decor. The beauty of the hotel lies not only in its important architectural foundations, but also in the peaceful and romantic ambience it exudes. Being able to roll up your window and step out onto a balcony surrounded by lush greenery is a truly special experience.

The cosy bar within the ParlourThe cosy bar within the Parlour

by Derby Jones

Henry Howard Hotel, 2041 Prytania Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

Tel: +1 504 313 1577
Follow Henry Howard Hotel on Instagram.
Photographs by Kathleen Fitzgerald.

About The Author

Related Posts

Leave a Reply