New buildings are so rare on historic St Charles Avenue in New Orleans that Hotel Henrietta is the first to go up in 30 years. Built as a contemporary alternative to its maximalist sister hotel Columns by the same streetcar stop, it riffs on the city’s European-brand architecture with heritage paint colours and pillared balconies along all five storeys. Whereas Columns’ property was originally built in 1883 for Simon Hernsheim, Henrietta is named for Hernsheim’s sister.
Its 40 rooms are equipped for short or long-term stays, some with kitchenettes, all with access to balconies. Breakfast comes from the on-site outpost of Flour Moon Bagels, serving Avenue Road Coffee. In the evenings, a cocktail bar takes over among potted palms, just beyond the marble reception. The colonnaded front porch and terrace feature two fire pits.
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Courtesy Hotel Henrietta
Located just outside the elegant Garden District, the building has the refined look of a classic Italianate villa updated by a chic 21st-century resident.
Interiors were designed by local practice Farouki Farouki, and they feature rich lacquered panelling, decorative custom millwork, velvet upholsteries, and deep, welcoming seating. Rooms start from $235 for a double, and the beds have waffly Parachute linens, and Le Labo fragrances line the bathrooms.
