If you've delved into The Ivy Hotel's website, you may have stumbled upon the "Ivy History" page, where you can discover the captivating story of this grand mansion, tracing its origins from construction in 1889 to its present-day allure. For those who haven't yet explored this rich narrative, allow us to provide a brief overview—redacting the more intimate, juicy details.
The journey began in 1889 when banker John Gilman commissioned architect Charles Carson to create a magnificent mansion in Baltimore's esteemed Mount Vernon neighborhood. Sadly, Gilman passed away before the project's completion. His widow later sold the home to William and Harriet Painter, known for hosting extravagant events and generously supporting local causes. Following William's passing, Harriet sold the estate to Dr. Thomas Futcher, an esteemed physician at Johns Hopkins. The Futchers resided quietly within its walls until the onset of the Great Depression, after which the mansion was donated to the Baltimore Parks and Recreation Department. Remarkably, in the 1980s, Mayor William Schaefer repurposed it to accommodate visiting dignitaries.
But that's merely the prelude! Now, let's delve into the fascinating realm of design—the real star of our story—transforming this historic landmark into a luxury hotel.
When the Parks & Recreation Department assumed responsibility for the mansion, you can imagine that high-end décor was not their primary concern. Their focus was more on functionality, leaving the breathtaking Gilded Age mansion to serve as a rather expansive office space for several years. Although Mayor Schaefer attempted to revitalize the setting, it wasn't until 2011 that developer Marty Azola and philanthropists Eddie and Sylvia Brown recognized the mansion's true potential. Their vision for a luxurious hotel could easily fill an essay. However, for our purposes today, we'll fast-forward past the intricate details to the more glamorous aspects of interior design.
Designer Jozsi Mesken, a true luminary in the field of hotel decor, faced the challenge of adhering to a budget while realizing her grand visions. Yet, given a dream and a significant investment, she produced stunning spaces that transcend the ordinary.
Blending old-world elegance with contemporary comfort is a true art form. The design team at The Ivy carefully navigated the delicate balance between respect for the mansion's historical essence and the need for a vibrant atmosphere, ensuring that the space does not feel like a static museum. Every design decision was made with luxury in mind: custom draperies that gently softened the intricate moldings, state-of-the-art lighting that illuminates the timeless woodwork, and lavish chairs that beckon you to sit and savor the surroundings. The outcome? A hotel that feels as richly storied as it is refreshingly alive.
Recognizing the importance of preserving historical integrity, the city of Baltimore mandated that key details remain intact—and they have indeed been preserved: original 19th-century fireplace tiles, inlaid flooring, a grand staircase fit for royalty, leaded windows, stained glass, and heavy brass doorknobs—all designed by Charles Carson himself, who had elevated standards shaped by his previous work on the Mt. Vernon Methodist Church and the Grand Masonic Venue.
Jozsi added her unique touch to the mansion with sumptuous, ultra-comfortable four-poster beds, rich textiles, and "barmoires" hand-painted by Maryland Institute College of Art students. She commissioned stunning murals and sourced period oil paintings and fine antiques. When she could not find the perfect piece of art for the Spa at The Ivy, she took matters into her own hands and created her own masterpiece. There's an abundance of beauty that truly must be experienced in person.
Thus, we have witnessed the remarkable evolution of a mansion that transformed from cluttered offices with fluorescent lighting to an enchanting luxury hotel adorned with chandeliers and offering modern-day opulence. The Ivy Hotel is a vibrant and welcoming destination that flawlessly marries historic grandeur with contemporary indulgence. It serves not merely as a place to stay but as an immersive experience, where every detail invites you to embrace your surroundings.
So whether your visit is motivated by a love of art, a passion for architecture, or the allure of five-star treatment, know that you are stepping into a living love letter to Baltimore, complete with a perfectly fluffed pillow at the end of your journey. Not to mention the fresh flowers delivered weekly by our partner, Flowers and Fancies, adding a vibrant touch of freshness to our beautifully designed space. If you're heading to FlowerMart in Mount Vernon this weekend, you may see them there.
Cheers to the 10th Anniversary of The Ivy Hotel!