The Dwell Hotel

Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Chattanooga

"The Dwell Hotel is a 16-room boutique designed by owner Seija Ojanper, with nods to the mid century modern aesthetic throughout its guest rooms, lobby, and Hanna-Barbera-esque logo."

"Why we love it: The first luxury boutique hotel in Chattanooga, with mid-century cool to spare The Highlights: - Every room is different, so guests can discover a new favorite on each visit - Attention to detail all the way down to thoughtful room amenities like electric kettles and a welcome cocktail on weekends - Surprisingly affordable rates for such a refined property The Review: As much gallery space as boutique hotel, the 16-room Dwell occupies an early 20th-century building in downtown Chattanooga. Bold wallpaper in the public spaces and individually designed guest rooms lend the property a modern-art vibe, while furniture and fixtures are more in line with the building’s history. It’s all the vision of first-time hotelier Seija Ojanpera, who has created a haven for business travelers seeking a stylish spot to rest up for meetings, as well as tourists eager to explore “The ’Noog.” Each room is designed differently and sports a unique name, allowing guests to request specific lodgings. Some feature working gas fireplaces, while all come with soaking tubs and rain showers to promote relaxation. Some balcony rooms offer views of downtown, but with enough separation to ensure a quiet night’s sleep. That is, unless you stay up late at The Dwell’s stylish cocktail lounge, Matilda Midnight, where talented bartenders serve expertly prepared drinks and small plates for snacking until the change of day."

The Dwell Hotel

"How did it strike you on arrival?If you looked up the textbook definition of “boutique hotel,” it wouldn’t surprise you to see The Dwell Hotel as the archetype. Local Seija Ojanpera designed every room of the brick and limestone building in the heart of downtown even before she purchased the property, which dates to 1909 (on a plot of land that was a fort during the Civil War). Everything from the logo to the lobby exudes retro, mid-century modern sophistication. The lobby gives guests their first glimpse of the graphic wallpaper throughout the hotel, polished brass accents, vintage furniture, and bold original artwork. Just off of the lobby is the grass-walled Rainbow Room, a lounge you’ll pass on your way to the restaurant, Syrup and Eggs. Guests and visitors can order drinks and snacks anywhere on the first floor, so it feels like you’re visiting a friend’s living room (albeit a friend with very good taste in decor). What’s the crowd like?Even though The Dwell is boutique hotel heaven, it doesn’t come with an exorbitant price tag, so during the week, in-the-know corporate travelers often stay. Weekends see more leisure travelers, including hip couples and women on girlfriend getaways. Regardless, it’s a hip, youthful, and childless crowd (or at least, kids under 12 can’t stay). The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Each of the 16 rooms at The Dwell are different, so it's possible to get a slightly different vibe in each. If you find a favorite you can can request a specific room (each are named), as I've heard some guests do. For instance, The Tiki (an executive suite) has a tropical-themed mini-bar, gas fireplace, and sitting room with bold palm frond wallpaper. The Pink Lady (king suite) has original art featuring a lady dressed in pink, a writing desk with blush accents, bold geometric wallpaper, and exposed brick. No matter which room you pick—or end up in, since demand is high year-round—the vibe is collected and curated. Every room comes with a modern black and white tile bathroom with soaking tub and stand-alone rain shower. The rooms are cool and cozy enough to make you want to hole up here, especially if you're a fan of mid-century modern design. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?It’s always the little things, and The Dwell takes every opportunity to make an impression. Along with free Wi-Fi, plush bathrobes, and cute bath amenities from C.O. Bigelow, there’s an electric tea kettle in each room for you to make your own tea or pour-over coffee with beans by Mad Priest, a roaster on Cherry Street. Turndown service is special, too: indulge your sweet tooth with chocolate covered Oreos from The Hot Chocolatier, another local shop. Checking in on a Friday or Saturday? The friendly staff will bring you a seasonal welcome cocktail from the bar to kick off your stay. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Syrup and Eggs is the newest addition to the dining space. Enjoy local and fresh ingredients for breakfast and lunch, or enjoy small bites and cocktails for dinner in the lounge-y, nigh-themed Matilda Midnight. The intricate, handcrafted cocktails are a draw for guests—and for those who couldn’t get a room reservation. Bottom line: worth it, and why?If you want to stay at The Dwell Hotel—and trust me, you do—you'll need to plan ahead, because the 16 unique rooms are in high demand. This vintage-chic property is so terrific, it's worth shifting your dates in order to book here." - Jennifer Bradley Franklin