In a city known for its history, Quirk Charlottesville is a haven for contemporary design lovers. The hotel’s groundbreaking architecture incorporates modern minimalism with historic structures, making it entirely unique in Charlottesville.
Enter the ivory lobby adorned with textured art pieces, and you’ll be struck by the soaring ceiling and line of archways leading to windows overlooking the historic Starr Hill neighborhood. There’s a feeling of intimacy in the playful spaces, especially the lobby lounge, with its lineup of pink couches near the coffee bar. Rather than a conventional hotel where you know what to expect, Quirk lives up to its name and surprises at every turn.
Where to Stay
Staying at the Quirk puts you in the middle of the action. The boutique hotel is within walking distance to Charlottesville’s major attractions, such as the University of Virginia campus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the new Dairy Market, a food hall with a diverse lineup of international food vendors. Quirk is also a five-minute walk from the Amtrak station, making it easy to visit without a car.
“West Main Street is a hub of activity,” says Bree Brostko Whitehouse of Retro Hospitality. “There are so many restaurant options nearby. The amazing Albemarle Baking Company is across the street. You can walk to the Downtown Mall. It’s a well foot trafficked area, with access to many small businesses.”
Sweet Dreams
Location, location, location. But you won’t be in a hurry to rush out when you stay at this luxurious hotel. Stride into the guest room and you’ll be dazzled by an enticing pastel color scheme punctuated by the hand-painted headboard created by University of Virginia graduate Kiki Slaughter.
Every room is sumptuous, with plush bedding, oversized pillows, modern lighting, and small dining table. There’s a beverage station in a handy drawer, a work desk, and a chair. The furniture is blond wood, and the floor-to-ceiling windows have blinds that lower and raise with a touch of a button. Some suites have a balcony. You’ll wish your own bedroom could be so inspiring.
The Artwork
What makes Quirk distinctive is the fascinating art choices on every floor. There’s even the Quirk Gallery, where local, regional, and national artists participate in rotating exhibits. The gallery is a two-story space filled with natural light from the huge windows. It’s open to guests of the hotel, and anyone who wants to stop by to tour the gallery. Art fans can visit Quirk’s boutique shop to find unusual gifts inspired by Quirk’s roundup of artists.
At the moment, Quirk Gallery is hosting an exhibit by Mary Scurlock and Diego Sanchez. These painters have collaborated on nine works of art, which are on display now through December 11. According to art critic Genevieve Dowdy, “The work moves back and forth between them, an intimate visual dialogue building new pathways.”
Wining and Dining
With so many excellent restaurants nearby, you might want to venture out for meals. But make sure to try at least one of the dining establishments inside the Quirk. For breakfast, there’s the Quirk Café, and the Quirk Lobby Bar offers happy hour specials on cocktails and light bites. The Pink Grouse is Quirk’s signature restaurant with a focus on modern Southern cuisine. The chef sources ingredients from the bounty of local farmers in the Virginia Piedmont. Groups celebrating a special occasion can book the private dining area enclosed with stacks of wine bottles.
Quirk’s beverage manager makes sure to have a collection of fine wines from Barboursville Vineyards – the first winery to grow grapes on the Monticello Wine Trail.
Those looking to take in the 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains will not be disappointed by Quirk’s Rooftop Bar, with indoor and outdoor seating. It’s become one of the most popular hangouts in Charlottesville.
Probably the most interesting spot in Quirk Charlottesville is Bobboo, a spirits lounge named for the owner’s grandfather. Here, the designers have turned away from the pinks that are the focal point of the hotel’s color scheme and incorporated darker tones and leather. Find a comfy couch by the fireplace and sample from the wide selection of whiskeys, wines by the glass, and signature cocktails.
Quirk is a distinctive boutique hotel that has become a retreat for Charlottesville’s locals and visitors alike. Beyond the flourishes, playful color scheme, and chic guest rooms, you’ll find a hotel that paces with Charlottesville’s embrace of authentic history, culture, and innovation.
Feature image courtesy Quirk Hotel
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