IF you touch down into Nashville expecting old-time honky-tonks, cowboy get-up and hot chicken, you won’t be disappointed. It’s all there. But you would do well to arrive at Music City with revised expectations – it turns out that the capital of Tennessee is going through something of a renaissance.
The Hutton Hotel’s vast lobby. Photograph: Nils Schlebusch
The Hutton Hotel, situated in the bustling West End neighbourhood, has been at the centre of such revitalisation. The multi-award winning property (Forbes Four Star, AAA Four Diamond) came onto the scene in 2009 and has been acknowledged as the first lifestyle hotel in Nashville. Nearly a decade on, and following a recent renovation by the highly accomplished Studio 11 Design, the Hutton Hotel continues to be the perfect base from which to experience the city, whilst also offering a spectrum of on-site activities.
A musical touch at Hutton Hotel in Nashville (US). Photograph: Nils Schlebusch
The tremendous music culture of Nashville gives the property its unique curatorial foundation, which can be immediately felt through design touches such as the old-school record player positioned next to the lifts and the shelves of vinyl records, which guests can dig into after requesting an in-room record player from reception.
The bar at Analog at Hutton Hotel Nashville (US). Photograph: Nils Schlebusch
Most exciting is the recent addition of Analog, a brand-new 300-person live music venue that can be accessed via the hotel, as well as through a snazzy street level entrance for those not staying at the property. It’s nicely-sized, filled with leather sofas, pretty rugs and cool chandeliers – so you really feel as though you’re in a cosy living room, rather than a typical entertainment space. New music acts take to the stage several times a week and the acoustics are terrific, helping to create a genuinely intimate feeling.
As well as this, Analog features a top-notch bar where you can expect to experience hand-crafted cocktails alongside local beers. It’s a great spot for an evening beverage regardless of whether a concert is on your itinerary. In a city full of night spots, Analog adds a nice balance to the mix by being a bona fide establishment (it was designed with professional musicians in mind under the direction of Red Light Management, often cited as the largest independent music management company) as well as a stylish, grown-up place to hang out. Expect this place to become a top dog within the local community.
A Writers’ Room at Hutton Hotel in Nashville (US). Photograph: Katie Kauss
Continuing this musical thread is the Hutton’s recent incorporation of Writers’ Rooms. Aware of the streams of professional musicians flocking to Nashville to record tracks as well as perform, the hotel was savvy enough to set up two fully outfitted music studios on site. Taking guidance from music pros Dierks Bentley and Ryan Tedder, who know exactly what an artist would want whilst in writing and recording mode, each space is kitted out with state-of-the-art equipment as well as gorgeous decorative touches.
The West Room features terra cotta tiles and a range of custom Martin guitars to play with, while the East Room boasts custom Gibson guitars and serene oak floors. Other than being terrifically designed, each space is an oasis for those wanting to get their artistic juices going. As a concept, the Writers’ Rooms feel truly original and highlight the Hutton’s commitment to creating an authentic experience, while supporting an industry that is part and parcel of Nashville’s cultural make-up.
An Executive King room at Hutton Hotel Nashville (US). Photograph: Tim Williams
And for all of the rock stars coming to town (whether real deal or otherwise), something special is waiting for you. Other than offering nearly 250 guestrooms, the hotel is home to three signature penthouse suites. The Hutton Suite is the largest of all, covering two levels, and is akin to a very glamorous, very large private apartment. Other than providing a full kitchen and living area, the space has a grand piano (the suite is soundproof) as well as a separate entrance, in case a discreet exit is necessary. The upstairs portion of the suite is accessed via a spiral suitcase and features a bathroom that is the size of a normal-sized bedroom – it could’t really get more luxurious.
The Hutton Suite. Photograph: Nils Schlebusch
For all of its glamour, though, the Hutton Hotel excels in pushing forward a highly comfortable and homely ambiance. Along with the high-octane starriness is a deep-rooted southern-style hospitality and ease, which makes for a thoroughly enjoyable stay.
by Derby Jones
Hutton Hotel, 1808 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203
Tel: +1 917 528 0989
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