Magnificent Manor
By Abigail Hartung |
|
For this month's Cribs feature, (614) has decided to forego the typical abode in hopes of inspiring you to make a romantic getaway.
Welcome to luxurious living at the Garden Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn, tucked away in a quiet corner of Olde Towne East. You've just stepped into a world of reverent relaxation, far away from the daily demands of 2010.
Photo: Chris Casella
Your gracious hosts, Al Waddell and Allen Baker, greet you in the foyer with a glass of wine, opening their home like a storybook before your eyes. Waddell and his partner view themselves as "stewards" of the Manor, which is listed on the Columbus Register of Historic Properties. The 115-year-old manor housed the jazz elite in town during the 1940s, legends like Duke Ellington and Billie Holliday, its opulence starkly contrasting with the racial segregation that kept them out of downtown hotels.
"We're not just property owners, but also caretakers of the legacy," said Waddell.
The pair completed extensive renovations to the home before opening the doors to the public in 2008.
The stained glass ceiling of the conservatory room is one of the many architectural marvels of the home; its 93 separate panels are resplendent with intricate details, such as the Tudor Rose pattern and signs of the zodiac.
Photo: Chris Casella
In the main salon, two dark green Spanish marble fireplaces illuminate the delicate pastoral scenes of the wall murals and the fine carvings of the wood panels and crown molding.
The first floor boasts a dozen sets of French doors, and the dining room features original hand-stenciled ceiling insets and an oil painting inset above the mantel.
Continuing up the main staircase, past a large stained glass window on the landing, you arrive at the three spacious guest rooms and the library. The guest rooms are tastefully adorned, with color schemes inspired by the marble fireplace of each room.
Breakfast at Garden Manor is truly a splendid affair. Served in the conservatory, guests are treated to a full gourmet meal, with settings of fine china, silver, and cloth napkins.
The guesthouse, situated just across the walled garden from the main house, is complete with its own full kitchen, bath, bedroom, and sitting room with fireplace.
The accolades of the establishment are many; although open just over a year, the Manor has already earned a steady following of repeat guests. The inn was recently selected for the "Best Urban Inn 2009-2010" award from BedandBreakfast.com based on its glowing guest reviews.
Waddell confirmed that the property has been a labor of love for he and Baker, and said that many guests share their historical knowledge and memories of the Manor, along with the personal importance of their stay.
"These stories inspire us. We're the cooks and housekeepers - it's a lot of work, but the stories are a great reward for the effort."
The Garden Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn
108 N 20th St.
(614) 832-4079
www.gardenmanor.net
Do you live in a stylish or distinctive crib? Send us a photo and brief description of your place to be featured in next month's Cribs... submit@614columbus.com
Originally Published: February 1, 2010
