Hotel St Vincent
Curated by Katy
Stepping into Hotel St. Vincent in New Orleans is stepping into a world where history dances cheek to cheek with contemporary style.
Nestled on the vibrant Magazine Street in the Lower Garden District, this rejuvenated 19th-century gem boasts a red brick facade adorned with wrought iron details. But don't expect a typical historical hotel frozen in time. Hotel St. Vincent is a masterclass in seamlessly blending the old and the new.
At a glance
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Price: from $209
Rooms: 75
Suitable for: Families, including those with children under 5, people with disabilities, and pets
Nearest Airport(s): New Orleans (MSY): 15-30min
Arrive by: Car, cab
Open: Year Round
Check in: 3pm Check out: 11am
The Hotel
To truly embrace the atmosphere of Hotel St. Vincent, you must dive into its captivating history. This monumental structure was once an orphanage, funded by the extraordinary entrepreneur and philanthropist, Margaret Haughery, affectionately known as the "Bread Woman of New Orleans." Haughery's legacy is woven into the very fabric and stylings of the hotel, and her spirit lives on through the meticulous preservation of the building's original features and passion for community spirit.
Rooms and Design
The visionary Texan hotelier, Liz Lambert, has sprinkled her magic touch throughout this 75-room sanctuary. The design incorporates an overall modern Italian aesthetic, with George Venson of Voutsa contributing to the hotel's unique atmosphere. Many of the furnishings are carefully sourced from the city's antique and vintage shops, such as Sud, Lucullus Antiques, and Merchant House.
Delving into the hotel's history reveals a delightful tale intertwined with its current design. The financial ledgers of Margaret Haughery, the orphanage's benefactor, were unearthed during the restoration process and served as inspiration for the unexpected patterns that adorn the hotel's walls, fabrics, furnishings, robes, and my new favorite (gifted) silk scarf. Without knowing the story of the ledgers or Margaret, these vibrant marbled prints remind guests not to take life too seriously, while classy vintage touches pay homage to the city's rich cultural tapestry.
The corridors exude a monochromatic and subdued ambiance, leading to rooms that offer delightful punches of color and those aforementioned prints. Each room is thoughtfully designed to cocoon guests in comfort, with an eclectic mix of textures and materials that exude whimsy and sophistication. Sink into the plush bedding, playfully indulge in "snow angels" in the bed, and get your vacation spirit on.
Food and drink
Hotel St. Vincent fully embraces the renowned gastronomic wonders of New Orleans, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culinary scene. San Lorenzo, the hotel's signature all-day restaurant, pays homage to the patron saint of cooks with a menu that showcases regional New Orleans influences in a space reminiscent of classic New Orleans dining rooms.
For a relaxed and sunny ambiance, Paradise Lounge is not your typical hotel lobby bar. Adorned with bright tropical murals, this airy space offers a tranquil setting to enjoy a cup of coffee, sip on refreshing cocktails, or delight in delectable bites. Take advantage of the outdoor porch patio for a breath of fresh air.
Whether you're starting your day with a leisurely breakfast or in need of a midday pick-me-up, the hotel offers diverse dining options to suit your taste. If you're in the mood for Vietnamese fusion, Elizabeth St Cafe offers a casual dining experience separate from the main building, where you can enjoy a quick grab-and-go option or sit back for a tasty bit on the terrace.
The area – the Lower Garden District
I've spent a significant part of my life wandering the streets of the Lower Garden District, so I hold a special fondness for this neighborhood. It's where my parents lived for many years, and I have vivid memories of exploring its crooked sidewalks, shaded by majestic oak trees, with the fragrant blooms and rich history permeating the humid air.
Beyond my emotional connection, Hotel St. Vincent's location in the Lower Garden District offers strategic access to many of the city's captivating areas. Here, you can escape the bustling tourist crowds of the French Quarter and the traffic of the Warehouse District and CBD, while still remaining conveniently close to them. Whether you prefer a quick taxi, a ride on the streetcar, or hopping on a bus, you can easily venture to these areas. Once at the edge of the French Quarter, you can explore the Marigny, Treme, and Bywater neighborhoods on foot.
The appeal of the Lower Garden District extends beyond its proximity to other neighborhoods. With Magazine Street nearby, boasting boutique shopping and diverse dining options, as well as easy access to the iconic Garden District with its historic landmarks and lush gardens, staying in this district provides an ideal base for experiencing the best of New Orleans.
Events and Community
Hotel St. Vincent is not only a retreat for visitors but also a vibrant hub where the local community flourishes. In addition to its inviting accommodations, the hotel offers ample opportunities for private events throughout its various areas. On special occasions, the parking lot comes alive as a bustling flea market, celebrating the talents of local artisans and vendors.
Their commitment to community extends beyond these events. For example, the restored chapel has been transformed into a versatile coworking space during the day, providing a collaborative environment for entrepreneurs, and creatives. Come nightfall, the chapel transitions into the Chapel Club, an intimate, moody gathering spot. It serves as a testament to the hotel's ability to mold nurture the various moods of the vibrant the City.
HOSPITALITY
Every transformative project needs visionary leaders, and Hotel St. Vincent found its dream team in hospitality maverick Liz Lambert and acclaimed restaurateurs Larry McGuire and Tom Moorman. The leaders of MML Hospitality recognized the potential of the iconic structure and embarked on a journey to breathe new life into its timeworn walls.
Great leaders also have a knack for creating great teams and MML is a winner when it comes to service.
As a Nola native, I'm most critical when it comes to hospitality and these guys do it right. They're the kind of team that knows what you want before you know yourself. It creates an unmistakable vibe and feeling of warmth and welcome. With Lambert's keen eye for design and unwavering commitment to preserving the soul of a place, MML Hospitality has created a destination that captures the hearts of travelers seeking an authentic New Orleans experience.
WHY WE LOVE IT
I truly adored the inclusivity of Hotel St. Vincent. This property warmly welcomes everyone—whether young or old(er), cool kids or nerds like myself, business travelers, families, couples, foreigners, or locals. Here, all guests blend together like the best gumbo, fostering a sense of unity and shared experiences.
Hotel St. Vincent is more than just a hotel; it's a love letter to New Orleans. It embodies the enduring spirit of the city and the magic that unfolds when history intertwines with contemporary design. So, my fellow wanderers, go and immerse yourselves in the friendly embrace of Hotel St. Vincent. Let its ambiance sweep you off your feet and leave you yearning for more of that authentic NOLA experience.
Room TIPS
For families: choose the Magazine Queen; two queen beds, walk-in closet, and plenty of space to move around
For something intimate and cozy: choose a Sister Studio; upper level nook with pitched ceilings, cute window seats, and walk-in shower; these rooms are away from the downstairs energy and a bit darker due to the smaller windows
For indulgance: choose a Veranda Suite; a private porch overlooking the pool, large bath, and a separate living space
Good Trips perks
Flexible Check in / out upon availability
Free room upgrade upon availability
Room rate discount: 27% Sunday-Thursday and 17% Friday and Saturday nights
Promo code: SaintGoodTrips
Sustainability in practice
Hotel St. Vincent's commitment to sustainable practices shines through its dedication to culture and community. As a larger boutique hotel housed within a reformed historical structure, environmental excellence can be a challenge. However, the MML team at Hotel St. Vincent remains devoted to creating a positive impact on the local community while preserving the natural and cultural beauty of New Orleans.
Culture:
Supports community projects and initiatives, fostering cultural awareness and respect between travelers and locals.
Incorporates local surroundings and culture into the design, creating a meaningful connection to the place.
Sources furniture and decor locally and/or secondhand, supporting local artisans and reducing environmental impact.
Preserves historic structures as much as possible, honoring the architectural heritage of the property.
Economy:
Generates greater economic opportunity and benefits for locals by promoting and supporting local businesses to guests.
Employs a majority of local staff, providing employment and fair wages to the community.
Involves locals in decisions that may directly affect them, ensuring their voices are heard and respected.
Environment and Wellness
Prioritizes sustainability and health through the use of low-to-no toxin cleaning supplies and laundry soaps
Sources food locally, seasonally, and, when possible, organic, supporting local farmers
LED lighting installed throughout the hotel increasing efficiency
Energy-efficient appliances
Timers for lighting, air conditioning, and other utilities in outlets, conserving energy during closed times.
Book with promo code SaintGoodTrips for special incentives.
Katy Hoogerwerf
Katy is a New Orleans native who grew up shaped by the art, design, music, and famously good food her hometown is known for. Her passion and expertise lie in finding design-led conscious businesses and sharing them with you.
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