Visiting Richmond? Thinking about a staycation in RVA? Looking for a place that showcases Richmond’s artsy side while transporting you somewhere new at the same time? I have the perfect place for you. Enter: The Quirk Hotel.
It is no secret to Richmonders that the Quirk Hotel is something special. Built in 1916, the building was originally constructed of Italian Renaissance influence for the J.B Mosby men’s department store and although it has been renovated since, it still holds true to its original design featuring sky high ceilings and limestone arches. You will also see some glass shelving behind the front desk that originally served as cases for men’s accessories.
This hotel is the only of its kind in Richmond, with an attached art gallery and an incredibly grand lobby featuring local art, The Quirk shows you the strength of Richmond’s art scene and creates an almost Wes Anderson-type vibe. Co-owner, Ted Ukrop (from Richmond’s beloved Ukrop family), was inspired for the idea of the hotel when he visited the 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, one of the first places to merge an art space with a hotel.
A few notable staples in the hotel include the large, almost feather looking installation next to the coffee stand as well as a paper mache cat, you can spot near the elevators. The first, by Susie Ganch, might look like feathers from a distance but get close and you will see used coffee lids that have been formed to the shape of trade routes in the Atlantic Ocean. It’s beautiful. Walk over to the elevators to head up to your room and you will see a special piece, titled Cat Baby, of a cat wearing pajamas and holding an octopus. It is amazing and hilarious all at the same time and is an interpretation piece of the Ukrop’s actual cat. You will see others like this on varying floors. If you spot the dog- this is also a family pet.
Rooms
The hotel offers a variety of room options, starting with Boutique King and Boutique Double Double Rooms. They also offer a variety of impressive suites, for those looking to have an even grander experience, a few with rooftop balconies ;). We stayed in the newest addition, the local artist series, a Queen room that has been painted by a local muralist, each one with it’s own voice. Our room featured the work of Chris Hulburt, known as Milk, a Richmond local who discovered his talents while he was painting houses in his 20’s. He has murals all around the city, just give him a Google- his work will pop right up.
Food & Drinks
You will not go thirsty staying at the Quirk either, with a gorgeous bar and an insane rooftop with 360 degree views of the city, you have options. The indoor bar is located in the lobby within the hotel’s signature restaurant, Maple & Pine. The name comes from the maple used in the department store fixtures and pine, the wood used throughout the rest of the store. Headed by Chef David Dunlap, the restaurant focuses on local ingredients and seasonal availability, leading to an ever changing, innovative menu. We tried the pasta with sage fettuccini, roasted squash, spiced pepitas, ricotta and amaretto. It was one of the best pastas I have ever had, no joke. Not to mention, the cocktails are on point. An added bonus, the hotel makes their own coffee (called Quirk) that you can grab complementary with your room between 6-7am.
The Rooftop
If you are lucky enough to be here in the summer (or spring or fall) head upstairs to the rooftop. There is a bar up there, offering up all kinds of cocktails as well as some light (and unique) bar snacks. You can over look the city from all angles up here, it’s quite lovely.
The Quirk was brought to life as an attempt to showcase Richmond’s thriving art scene, give opportunity to local artists and give back to the community. (Even the chair upholstery is made by local artists.) It’s not just a beautiful place to stay, it has purpose and stands strong in its roots and the history of the city. If you are looking for a place to stay in Richmond, that is not only comfortable but can teach you about this city, it’s history, and it’s current life, the Quirk is the place. Also, they have free bike rentals 😉
Book it here.
xx,
Hannah
Looking for dinner outside of the delicious Maple & Pine? Check out my favorite dinner spots in Richmond here.
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