Stowe stole my heart from my first visit. It was a trip full of stunning snowy mountains, cozy fires, plentiful strong coffee, and delicious farm-to-table food. A skier’s paradise, yes, but I had never thought of it as a source for design inspiration until my most recent visit.
After over a decade in the field, I’ve come to realize the formula that makes a room feel complete in my eyes. It must include: art, antique(s), and thoughtfully placed, warm lighting. There must be a comfortable, inviting ambience with a balance of symmetry/order juxtaposed with a touch of whimsy/playfulness. It must have a solace and ease to it as if it’s always been exactly that way. Edson Hill fit the formula and then some.
The inn immediately tugged at my authentic-farmhouse-loving, classic-interior-craving soul. I noted split firewood- check; a familiar creak in the floors- check; good smells-check; art-check; fresh flowers- check; friendly greeting- check check. The framed black and white farm scenes lining white shiplap walls didn’t feel stale or predictable because of their proud, oversized scale. Their simplicity was the perfect mix to the adjacent great room full of colorful modern and traditional art, a myriad of rich textures, roaring fire, and large mirrors to bounce around the candlelight.
Once I was dragged (politely led) to the main dining area, I realized I should have acquiesced sooner. The main communal dining table was dressed with classic white linens, beautiful, simple glasses and silverware, and menus donning the graceful logo and classic print. Every detail was curated beautifully down to the ticking slipcovers on the side chairs, bold black oversized Windsor chairs on the end, and relaxed romans dressing the windows. As if it wasn’t enough, an elaborate light fixture made of raw twigs and twinkling white lights cast a flattering glow across the table.
The meal only enhanced this visual feast for the eyes. My purple sweet potato gnocchi did not disappoint, nor did the pumpkin spice cake for dessert. Pinot Noir was appreciated, but not necessary, to appreciate such sumptuous surroundings.
Edson Hill is at the top of places to visit for my annual jaunt up to Vermont. Until then, I’ll keep these images at the top of my “interior inspiration” pile.
Colorful modern art juxtaposed with classic furnishings
Elegant communal table 
Cozy corner 
Classic interiors
