The Art of Hospitality: Why Every Wall at The Ivy Tells a Story

At The Ivy, art goes beyond mere decoration—it enhances the overall experience. From the moment you walk in, you're enveloped by a carefully curated blend of beauty, rich history, and meticulous detail. Every surface tells a story, and every corner is thoughtfully designed. We believe that genuine hospitality is not just about comfort; it's also about creating the right atmosphere, and art plays a central role in bringing that atmosphere to life.

What distinguishes The Ivy is the authenticity of its design; nothing feels mass-produced. The walls, for instance, were hand-painted room by room by artists who truly understood the spirit of the space. This includes the large mural in the Tea Room, an elegantly whimsical piece created by Baltimore artist David Wiesand. His artwork adds a quiet, narrative charm to the room, making it perfect for leisurely tea and conversation.

But the creativity doesn't stop there. Our "barmoires"—armoires transformed into beautifully painted beverage stations—are another example of how we blend purpose with artistry. These unique pieces serve as storage for each room's fridge, coffee, wine, and snacks, and were all painted by students from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). This initiative infuses the energy and perspective of young local artists into our guest rooms.

It’s only fitting that The Ivy sits in the heart of Mount Vernon, Baltimore’s cultural district. This historic neighborhood is home to many of the city’s best museums, galleries, and performance spaces, including The Walters Art Museum, which is just a short walk away. Mount Vernon’s long-standing dedication to the arts continues to shape the area’s identity, and we’re proud to be a part of that creative community.

There's a purpose behind our artistic choices: art fosters connections to place, to people, and to memory. When guests walk through our halls or relax with a glass of wine by the fire, they're surrounded by more than just design; they are immersed in a space shaped by human hands and creativity.

In a world of uniformity, The Ivy Hotel serves as a reminder that hospitality can still feel personal. At the heart of that personal touch is the art.