Sneak Peek at The Madrona
Author:Lindsey ShookGet ready to sleep and sip in style at The Madrona, Sonoma County’s new boutique hotel designed by renowned interior designer Jay Jeffers
Healdsburg’s highly anticipated new boutique hotel—The Madrona—is opening its doors this month and welcoming guests to experience its bold, spirited spaces designed by Bay Area designer Jay Jeffers. Located in the heart of Sonoma, the 24-room hotel was originally built as a gabled private residence in 1881 during the Aesthetic Movement. Now, Jeffers and his team have transformed the historic property with his signature style while honoring the homes heritage. All aspects of the hotel from the design to the restaurant menus are inspired by the home’s original owners, the Paxton family, who were distinctively Northern Californian, but loved to travel the world, collecting items and inspiration from their travels.
Photo by Matthew Millman.
“The Madrona goes beyond a traditional luxury wine country hotel, delivering memorable moments of bold design, highly-intuitive service, and an overall sense of magic around every corner,” says The Madrona’s co-owner and designer, Jay Jeffers. “When designing the hotel, it was important for me to respect its historic architecture and 19th century roots, while reimagining the property to be more modern and exciting for today’s traveler.”
Spread across six buildings, the guest rooms and private bungalows feel more like a luxury residence than a traditional hotel dwelling, as no two rooms are alike. This modern-day interpretation of the original 19th century aestheticism is reflected in the bold fabric selections, robust art curated by Dolby Chadwick Gallery and the impressive collection of over 200 antiques and relics from around world travels, including over 30 pieces from the original owner, John Alexander Paxton, which are showcased alongside contemporary pieces for an eclectic mix of old and new.
The sensorial experience continues throughout the day with the help of Michelin-starred chef, Jesse Mallgren who will present guests with an entirely new and more approachable concept, influenced by his love of international flavors and seasonal ingredients sourced directly from The Madrona’s on-site garden. Guests can anticipate a spin on classic cuisine including chicken paillard infused with Southeast Asian flavors from his travels throughout Thailand; steak tartare with goma dare, quail egg and fresh wasabi; and local anchovies cured with Madrona lemons, featuring fennel pollen from the onsite garden and DaVero olive oil from The Madrona’s neighboring farm. Jeffers and hotel managing partner Mosaic Hotel Group partnered with West Bev to curate a dynamic wine and cocktail program that will feature rare libations not found anywhere else in Sonoma.
Set on eight acres, the property holds thoughtful amenities that cater to those passionate about health and fitness. The gardens are created in partnership with Aris Curtis, a passionate voice for the regenerative farming movement, are meant to be enjoyed not just for the fare but for maximum relaxation. A heated pool sits between the gardens and citrus groves that allows for year-round enjoyment while the fitness studio comes equipped with both Peleton bikes, a Tonal smart gym and much more.
“I am thrilled to welcome guests to The Madrona this April onwards, where high-design, exceptional food and drink, thoughtful amenities, and scenic views await,” says Jeffers. Stay tuned for more design details and a full tour of this exceptional hotel in our summer print issue, hitting stands this May.