The Loutrel brings its botanical bueaty to Charleston's French Quarter.
Grab a seat at the rooftop terrace for sweeping views of Charleston.
The Veranda Lounge serves familiar cocktails tinged with a “Charleston twist.”
The newest hospitality addition to Charleston’s historic French Quarter, The Loutrel (@theloutrelcharleston), has already become an instant hit for visitors and locals alike since its early November opening. Sitting on prime real estate between Church Street and State Street, the luxury 50-room hotel radiates a refined elegance that instantly captures the attention of all who cross its path. But be warned: Once you enter the enchanting oasis, you may never want to leave.
Inspired by the city’s many public and private gardens, The Loutrel creates a whimsical atmosphere comprised of flourishing greenery and cozy accents that make for a comfortable and refreshing stay for its guests. “The feeling of ‘old Charleston meets contemporary detail’ was the main inspiration for the design,” says Michael Graves, the brains behind the hotel’s interior design and namesake founder of Michael Graves Architecture & Design. “We wanted to make the hotel feel reminiscent of a great city but also express that it is moving forward.” Adding to the hotel’s gardenesque mystique, Graves accredits charming architectural accents like the cozy porch swing and calming bar lanterns for The Loutrel’s refreshing and unique ambiance
As for Graves’ favorite part of the hotel? The lobby, thanks to its inviting atmosphere that instantly puts guests at ease. “Making the lobby more of an experience where people can meet, work or lounge is a current trend that is here to stay,” shares the creative, who emphasizes the space’s calming, biophilic elements, which pay homage to Charleston’s idyllic floral and fauna, adding, “We used many shades of green through the property to embrace the palette of the Lowcountry unique to Charleston.”
Tucked inside the lobby, the Veranda Lounge spills with light via floor-to-ceiling windows.
Much like the lobby, each space serves as yet another captivating representation of botanical beauty. Of note is certainly the stunning rooftop terrace overlooking Charleston and all of its charm. With verdant greenery, open-air seating and unbeatable views, this is one rooftop that’s destined for fame. Other design highlights include the stunning Veranda Lounge, a spot perfect for sipping and socializing among The Loutrel’s calming greenery. Giving guests an indoor Southern porch experience, the Veranda Lounge features a cozy porch swing; a bronzed, shiplike bar; and, best of all, a statement art piece showcasing Charleston’s beautiful landscapes by local artist Linda Fantuzzo. And the fun doesn’t stop there, as guests can continue their evening in the hotel’s private Club Room where they can enjoy drinks and small bites while playing games like Parcheesi and chess.
The design team sought to continue the trend of hotel lobbies being an experience and places for people to meet, lounge and more.
The Loutrel is also the perfect place to relax and unwind after embarking on adventures throughout the Holy City. The luxury hotel gifts guests with refreshing comfort in each of its rooms and suites, which serve as the perfect hideaway after a day of exploring (ahem, shopping on King Street). While each room differs from the next, every space offers unique, subtle nods to Charleston’s breathtaking garden landscapes. But the luxuries extend far beyond the design, with each room boasting all of the amenities and comforts your heart desires—from Matouk Damiano percale sheets to Deep Steep bath products and more.
The Loutrel’s 50 guest rooms vary in appearance, but most certainly not in comforts.
Featuring a seamless blend of materiality, timelessness and unity, it’s no wonder The Loutrel answers to the name “Charleston’s finest hour.”
Photography by: Kim Graham Photography
