A Little History

The Columns Hotel, designed by one
of New Orleans' great architects, Thomas Sully, is the only remaining
example of a large group of Italianate houses that he designed
in the late 1880's.
Surviving interior features are considered among
the grandest known in any late-nineteenth century Louisiana
residence. One of the most dramatic features is a mahogany stairwell
which rises to meet an extraordinary square domed stained glass
skylight in a stylized sunburst motif.
The Victorian Lounge was
once the main dining room and features a remarkable mantle piece
and overmantel, and the original built-in breakfront. This piece
is of particular historical interest, because it is the only
surviving piece of its kind in any residence designed by Thomas
Sully.

The Front Porch
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The house was commissioned by Simon Hernsheim, owner of Hernsheim
Brothers & Co., the largest manufacturer of cigars in the United
States at the turn of the 20th century. Following Mr. Hernsheim's
death in 1898, the house had several owners and was transformed
initially into an exclusive boarding house, then a hotel.
In 1980, the current owners, Claire
and Jacques Creppel, purchased the property. Their mission is to
restore The Columns Hotel to its original grandeur, and offer a
special lodging experience in the heart of New Orleans' beautiful
Garden District, known for its stately homes and beautiful gardens.
Jacques and Claire Creppel
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