Classic Preppy Hotels

I love the “preppy” aesthetic of classic hotels and inns. These hotels capture the trends and items that weave themselves from the past into modern versions of rooms. They specialize in this look, with many staples such as a mix of antiques and newer items, bold prints, classic details, animal prints, rich color, gilded details and luxurious upholstery.

The Greenbrier Hotel, White Sulphur Springs, WV: The Greenbrier’s famous façade symbolizes the very grandest resort experience in America. The foundation of which is its lavish décor and world-famous Dorothy Draper interior design. Dorothy Draper was a pioneer in interior design, dominating the field, not only in New York but nationally, from 1925 to 1960 when she was named the most influential tastemaker in America. The high-society interior designer was hired to renovate the resort after it was used as a hospital during World War II. She left the hotel with a bold new personality, using color and oversized patterns to paint a picture that reflected the luxury of space, elegance and a sense of history in every detail. As a result, America’s Resort remains a one-of-a-kind property with guestrooms, suites and cottages unlike any other in the world.

Gasparilla Inn & Club, Boca Grande, FL: Walking through The Gasparilla Inn & Club’s sun-bathed, pillared entrance and into the lobby, experience the feeling of Florida as it was meant to be. Guests are instantly embraced with the tranquil civility of a time that once was — and still is — at this classic resort. A destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast since 1913, it is the center of village life on Gasparilla Island. The historic resort will celebrate its centennial anniversary in 2013. The Gasparilla Inn is one of the largest surviving resort hotels in Florida, constructed originally for wealthy northerners during the time when the state became a travel and vacation destination. Redecorated by Kemble Interiors’ Mimi McMakin, with a preppy and chic vibe. Rocking chairs on the main porch greet arrivals and pink-and- green botanical prints hang on yellow-and-white-striped walls and While the furnishings lend an old-fashioned allure, they are all new. Days are spent in Lilly Pulitzer and tennis whites.

Tides Beach Club, Kennebunkport, ME: The century-old inn on the ocean reopened with a fresh new look in this classic summer beach town. The spaces are designed the way your dream beach house would be–relaxed and cozy with plenty of upbeat colors and lively patterns. The alluring lobby was designed by Tim Harrington, Jim Samson and Louise Hurlbutt. Warm taupe grasscloth walls, a leather upholstered bar, lots of mirrors to reflect light, turquoise stools for a pop of color–it’s a chic template for a warm living space. Two guest rooms are decorated by hip New York-based interior designer Jonathan Adler and blend the contemporary with the traditional,mixing serene sea-colored walls with funky sea coral lamps,traditional arm chairs with platform beds and in one suite,refurbished wicker chairs painted a poppy grass green.

Seaside Avenue Bed and Breakfast, Seaside, FL: A newly restored inn designed exclusively by the internationally known handbag, travel bag, and accessories manufacturer, Vera Bradley, located in Seaside, Florida. Dubbed the Seaside B&B, the nine room property is reflective of the Vera Bradley lifestyle. Each of the nine guest rooms and common areas feature the trademark style and colorful flair synonymous with her. Located in idyllic Seaside with its renowned décor makes it an extraordinary accommodation. The common parlor downstairs features rich colors and refined pieces. Every guest has full privileges at the private swim, tennis and fitness club in Seaside.

Hideaway restaurant at the Oceana Hotel, Santa Monica, CA: While this hotel and restaurant may not be a classic, the pink and green, paired with bursts of yellow, pink, and orange, plus loads of stripes, give the space the perfect preppy-chic look. The pink is not too girly, not too Pepto, and not too bright, the dusty pink walls are just right. The playful, yet sophisticated, Chris Barrett designed the space so that guests would feel like they were in their own laid back luxe beach house. Notice the framed vintage bathing suits on the wall–an easy DIY art idea.