Personality on Parkway

The Darwin brings a stylish new option to Old Fourth Ward

Ihave lamented the lack of boutique hotels in Atlanta. When visitors who prefer smaller hotels ask where to stay, it’s been the same handful of options. Now, with the arrival of The Darwin, there’s one more independent hotel to add to the list.

Located in Old Fourth Ward in what used to be the two-star, dated Stratford Inn, The Darwin exemplifies all the changes going on in the neighborhood, a point woven through the visual storytelling of the hotel. Origami cranes, which represent change, are stenciled across the hotel’s facade, for example, and a John Lewis mural by local artist Lauren Pallotta Stumberg greets guests above the main lobby lounge area. There’s art by Atlantan Travis Love, a coffee program featuring Decatur’s Radio Roasters and a custom bar by East Point-based woodworking company B10 Union. All were concepted by owner Shyam Patel and carried out by Brookhaven-based architecture and design firm C+TC Design Studio. Speaking of transformations, I am in search of a good night’s sleep in my old neighborhood, so I head up to my accommodations. The Darwin has 111 rooms, including five themed suites. From options like the

Glam Night Out (lots of mirrors for getting ready) and the Audiophile (records and record player), I’ve chosen the Library Suite overlooking the hotel’s central courtyard. It’s a large room with floral wallpaper, channeled headboards and plenty of space for me to stretch out, including a nook with two swivel chairs and a small bookshelf. If I had more time here, I could see myself curling up in one of the chairs and browsing Arthur Blank’s Good Company, which I found on the shelf.

Instead, I head down to Ponce City Market, a mere half mile away. The Darwin offers electric bikes, but

I choose to walk my old stomping grounds. After securing a delicious falafel sandwich from Bibi Eatery on the first floor, I enjoy the short walk back, marveling at how much the neighborhood has changed in the four years since I’ve lived here.

When I reach the hotel, a large Labrador mix greets me with his owner, which is a pleasant surprise. While I’ve opted not to bring my four-legged friend, The Darwin is a dog-friendly hotel, complete with a small dog park on site. And while I’ve brought neither my husband or child, a family-friendly bunk room screams intown family sleepover that I mentally clock for next time. Upon waking, I grab a pastry (fresh from Alon’s Bakery) from The Darwin’s Baked and Brewed menu. There’s also a night-time cocktail and tapas program featuring snacks such as a charcuterie board, truffled popcorn and pizzas. Rested, well-caffeinated and well-fed, I’m ready to confront the rest of my day back in Buckhead. It might have only been a 5-mile trek, but it felt like I was on planet cool, if only for a night. n

Q&A with Atlanta Intown Expert, Samantha Jones

Real Estate Advisor with Engel & Völkers Atlanta, a Global Brand with over 1,050 offices in 31 countries and 5 continents

Specializations: Land for New Devlopment, Entertainment and Film Industry, Relocating for Celebrities

2021 and 2022 Engel & Völkers Ruby Elite

2022 Atlanta REALTORS® Association Top Producer

Q: What is the best advice you would offer to a buyer or seller who is entering the market but has concerns about current rates?

A: I think it’s wise to realize buyers are still actively looking for homes, but there’s a shortage of inventory due to limited construction between 2007 and 2012, which resulted in a loss of over 54% of builders. This shortage, combined with increased demand from people moving here and investors with cash to invest, has kept prices stable. It’s a good time for buyers to act, as interest rates may decrease soon, leading to bidding wars and price hikes. By purchasing now and potentially refinancing later, buyers can escape rising rent prices and enter the homeownership market.

Q: Do you think there has there been a noticeable increase relocation within the film industry in Atlanta following the COVID-19 pandemic?