Foyer, Stairwell, First & Second Floor Galleries
Alex was inspired by the painting Spirit of SC by Dale Powell, depicting a modern day sailboat in the Charleston harbor. She explains, “The history of the city is so evident In this work. The light shining on the harbor turns the water to gold. The U.S. Flag flies proudly above the mast, while the church spires stand tall in the distance. Then there are glimpses of the industry of Charleston, from the tourist-laden ferries to the shipyards beyond the horizon. The work is a perfect representation of Charleston: Her past, people, visitors, industry, faith, freedom, and future. As Showhouse visitors view Mr. Powell’s artwork in the staircase niche, I hope they sense the complexity and magnificence of the city I love and call home.”
The gallery leading onto the first floor piazza is the heart of the historic Bee & Blossom Inn. It’s the first view from the street, the meeting point for guests, and the entry to the beautiful gardens. Plum colored grasscloth is a nod to the city’s masterful sweetgrass artisans. Above the heirloom mahogany console, visitors will notice Thinking by Sally Hughes Smith. Ms. Smith graciously recreated her masterpiece, which depicts a kneeling woman, lost in thought. Alex was struck by the figure’s ambiguity; she could be of any ethnicity, means or era. “The woman seems humble, yet there’s a strength about her. I am drawn to her, and I love this work.”
Photography by Chris Smith
Continuing up the staircase, look for the intricate grid Alex Incorporated to fill what was once a windowed view. Upon reaching the landing, notice the matelasse drapery repeated from the main floor, a reference to the inn’s bee motif. The second floor gallery adds another layer of color with classic blue grasscloth walls. The patriotic theme on a field of regal plum is evident throughout these spaces.
Photography by Chris Smith
Alexandre Fleuren is a Master Interior Designer known for expert space planning, project management, and elegant designs that reflect her clients’ desire for beautiful and gracious living. This is Alex’s third year as a Showhouse designer and she was featured in the Traditional Home CSOL Showhouse issue. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a major in Housing, and has master level certification in faux finishes, color theory, and design business. With over 25 years of experience in design, her work can be found coast-to-coast and throughout the South with numerous historic properties to her credit, including this one; the Bee & Blossom Inn is one of Alex’s many appreciative clients.
Click here to see more images of this fabulous project!
Paint: Benjamin Moore, Sugarplum BM 1394
Rugs: Fine Rugs of Charleston
Art: Sally Hughes Smith, Dale Powell
Decorative Ceiling: Jess Kollar
Pillows: Poetic Pillows
Limited Edition Shell Box: Charleston Sea Jewels
Mirror: Global Views
Antique Table: Susan Cox (private collection, on loan)
Upholstery: Thibaut Fine Furniture
Wallcoverings: Thibaut Wallpaper and Fabrics
Architectural Grid: The Cabinet Shop
Construction: Wes Mahaffey, Ironhorse Construction
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