Inn Kind
A Boutique Hotel Reimagines Coming Home
Words Christopher Ferguson, RA | Photos courtesy Frances Modern Inn
The Frances Modern Inn offers cozy and curated stays, thoughtfully attentive staff, and an intimate Italian dining experience via their stylish new restaurant: Poeta.
“This place is named after my grandmother, Frances,” explains Vicki Faust, founder of The Frances Modern Inn, relaxing into the tufted turquoise sofa anchoring one corner of the spacious suite. “She was the best listener, and her door was always open.”
The hyper-decorated suite, one of 14 curiously unique rooms at The Frances Modern Inn, is moody and provocative, with deep vibrant colors and intricately rich wallpaper setting off a bevy of charming, old-world accents. Instead of kaleidoscopic, the room feels composed, sophisticated, and calm—a testament to the care taken throughout the interiors of the property which is designed by Kim Lewis.
Located in the heart of East 11th Street’s cultural district, the boutique hotel opened its doors in the summer of 2023 and quickly hit the ground running. By December, Vicki added chefs Krystal Craig, Ian Thurwachter, and Kevin Donovan into the mix, launching a restaurant partnership on the ground level called Poeta.
I realized when we opened how much we can affect people’s lives just by doing the little things, sharing small kindnesses. The world needs it now, and we’ve made it a part of our mission to look for ways to share that sense of real care with our guests.” -Vicki Faust
Yet, the quality of the decor, amenities, and dining—all exceptional—is not what makes the hotel unlike any other. The secret ingredient is more elusive, yet also palpable. At some point, it just asserts itself; there is an earnestness about the whole place that bubbles up from its entire staff, from the custodians, to the hosts, to the chefs, up to Vicki.
There’s a sense of pride and kindness at play in every interaction, subtle but ever present. Somehow, it feels a little bit like coming home. In a city with no shortage of branded hotel experiences, the authentic hospitality resonant at The Frances Modern Inn makes it a gem among gems and a perfect place for a staycation, travelers, or out-of-town guests.
Sidewalk Service:
Just in time for summer, try Poeta’s gelato trailer parked out front!
Staycation, Anyone? A walkable location to luxury amenities and some of the cutest and most historic spots in town, including Franklin Barbecue, makes The Frances Modern Inn a great choice for a recharging in-town respite.
Contact:
1123 E 11th St.
thefrancesmoderninn.com
@thefrancesmoderninn
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