Timeless Craft: Bringing the Arts & Crafts Movement to The Hickory House Inn
- Chelsea Heersink
- Jun 7
- 2 min read
There is a profound magic in things made by hand. In an era dominated by mass production and fleeting trends, we find ourselves yearning for spaces that tell a story—spaces where every joint, every brushstroke, and every piece of timber carries the soul of the artisan who shaped it.
As we breathe new life into The Hickory House Inn, we have found our perfect guiding light in the Arts & Crafts Movement.
For us, incorporating this historic design philosophy isn't just about antique aesthetics; it’s about honoring the heritage of our historic inn while creating a deeply comforting, authentic sanctuary for our guests.
What is the Arts & Crafts Movement?
Emerging in the late 19th century as a rebellion against the industrial revolution's sterile, machine-made goods, the Arts & Crafts movement championed a return to traditional craftsmanship. Pioneers like William Morris and Gustav Stickley believed that a person’s surroundings profoundly influenced their well-being. They advocated for:
Honesty of Materials: Letting the natural beauty of wood, stone, and brass shine through without faux finishes.
Simple, Functional Beauty: Creating objects that are incredibly durable, useful, and inherently beautiful.
A Connection to Nature: Using organic motifs—like leafy patterns, floral textiles, and earthy color palettes—to bring the outdoors inside.

How We’re Bringing the Era to The Hickory House Inn
Our goal isn't to build a rigid, hands-off museum, but rather a living, breathing boutique experience where historic charm meets modern luxury. Here is how we are weaving the Arts & Crafts ethos into the very fabric of your stay:
1. Statement Furniture with a Soul
Instead of uniform, flat-packed furniture, our rooms feature thoughtfully curated, heavy-timber pieces. Look closely and you’ll spot the hallmark elements of the era: sturdy mortise-and-tenon joinery, rich quarter-sawn oak, and honest, functional hardware that feels good to touch.
2. An Earth-Inspired Palette
The colors of The Hickory House Inn are drawn straight from the landscape surrounding us. Expect warm amber woods, muted moss greens, deep rusts, and soft, twilight blues. These tones naturally ground the spaces, instantly signaling to your mind and body that it is time to slow down and unpack.
3. Textiles and Textures That Tell a Story
From the intricate, nature-inspired patterns of William Morris-inspired wallpaper accents to hand-woven throws and textured linens, we are layering our spaces with tactile warmth. Every fabric has been chosen not just for how it looks, but for how cozy it feels when you curl up with a good book.
4. Celebrating Local Artistry
True to the original spirit of the movement, we plan to collaborate with contemporary local artisans. From hand-thrown ceramic mugs for your morning coffee to custom ironwork and regional artwork gracing our walls, we are ensuring that the spirit of the maker is alive in every corner.

Experience the Art of Slowing Down
The Arts & Crafts era was ultimately a movement about intention—choosing quality over quantity, and mindfulness over rush.
When you step through the doors of The Hickory House Inn, we want you to feel that shift in pace. Whether you’re running your hand along the graceful wainscoting or sipping tea by the fire, you are participating in a grand tradition of rest and appreciation.
We can't wait to welcome you into our labor of love.



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