Meticulously restored in 2008, Stonehurst Place opened its doors as a bed and breakfast inn less than a year ago. Already it is being acclaimed as one of Atlanta's most outstanding inns for individuals traveling to Atlanta on business or pleasure. A delightful shingle-style house, built in 1896, Stonehurst Place is conveniently located in midtown Atlanta close to downtown businesses as well as the arts district. Stonehurst Place is situated upon a hill with English-inspired gardens; a whimsical fountain embellishes the front garden and can be enjoyed from the front porch. Magnificent architectural stone formations contribute to the overall beauty of the property's exterior. On-site parking is available, and fine dining is within walking distance.
Though characterized by a feel of urbane sophistication, Stonehurst Inn also exudes a sense of welcoming warmth. The inn has 3 porches for guests to enjoy, and I thoroughly enjoyed relaxing on each of them. A former sleeping porch (on the second level) has been attractively converted into an enclosed "porch" overlooking the gardens below. The front porch (above photo on left) allows guests to view Atlanta's skyscrapers while surrounded by trees and listening to piped-in music. The third porch (above photo on right) is also located on the main level and overlooks the well-manicured gardens. The middle photo shows afternoon refreshments offered to guests each afternoon in the living room. In addition to luxurious appointments throughout the inn, Stonehurst Place is an eco-friendly property featuring water conservation systems and solar energy. It is also a pet-friendly inn and even offers a "Pampered Pooch Package!"
No matter "what's your pleasure," one of the rooms or suites at Stonehurst is sure to please you. I stayed in The Master Suite, an ideal choice for one traveling on business with its separate work area and spacious sitting room.The Master Suite's commodious bathroom is one of the grandest baths I have ever experienced and truly exemplifies the ultimate in bathroom luxury. In addition to a walk-in multi head shower and spa tub (middle photo above), it includes a separate water closet (with a toilet and a bidet), 2 oversized lavatories, a heated floor and towel rack. Two of my other favorite bedchambers at Stonehurst Place are The Hinman Suite (left photo above), furnished in elegant antiques, and The Gables Suite featuring contemporary design. Free WiFi access is available throught the inn, and each guest room is equipped with individual temperature control, a flat screen TV (with DVD/CD player),and an iPod/mobile phone/PDA charging station.
A delicious gourmet breakfast is beautifully served each morning in the formal dining room (shown above), or guests may eat on the adjacent porch when the weather is nice. Barb Shadomy, the inn's owner, is a world traveler who has incorporated bits and pieces of her international experiences into her B&B. And as a frequent traveler, she is well attuned to the special touches that contribute to making an inn one that is top-notch. Barb is assisted by Trenell Smith, an amicable and capable innkeeper who knows how to make guests glad they chose Stonehurst Place. I have no doubt that this is a bed and breakfast that will be heard much about in the Atlanta area and beyond. I enthusiastically recommend it!