HOTBED REVIEW: The Windsor Court, New Orleans
In a city celebrated for its rhythm and colour, Windsor Court Hotel offers a calm, elegant counterpoint. Think polished Southern charm, hushed luxury, and a whisper of British refinement — all set against the soulful backdrop of New Orleans.
Bespoke Art, Refined Rooms & Vintage Vibe: The Windsor Court Experience
The Vibe
In a city celebrated for its rhythm and colour, Windsor Court Hotel offers a calm, elegant counterpoint. Think polished Southern charm, hushed luxury, and a whisper of British refinement, all set against the soulful backdrop of New Orleans. This is where high ceilings meet high culture, with a warm, unhurried atmosphere that invites lingering.
Design & Style
The hotel’s interiors read like a collector’s dream, with an art and antiques collection valued at over $12 million. Gilded frames, oil paintings, and rare objets d’art sit comfortably alongside plush furnishings in a palette of soft creams and rich jewel tones. The lobby’s grand floral displays and the Grill Room’s hand-painted murals evoke a vintage opulence, while subtle modern touches keep the experience fresh rather than fusty.
Location
Windsor Court enjoys a prime downtown spot, just a short stroll from the French Quarter’s vibrant streets and the Mississippi River. Yet it’s far enough removed to guarantee a sense of retreat, offering easy access to NOLA’s galleries, jazz clubs and culinary landmarks without the constant bustle.
Rooms
Spacious and refined, the suites are a masterclass in understated luxury. Many feature private balconies with skyline or river views, inviting guests to soak in the city’s changing light. Plush beds, marble bathrooms, and a soft neutral palette ensure a restful stay, while fresh-cut flowers and curated artworks add personality.
Food & Drink
The Grill Room is a destination in itself, an elegant dining space where Southern flavours meet French finesse. Signature dishes like soft shell crab sit alongside decadent desserts, all presented with artistic flair. Afternoon tea in Le Salon adds a touch of Old World glamour, while the Polo Club Lounge offers expertly crafted cocktails in a cosy, club-like setting.
Facilities & Experiences
Highlights include a the outdoor pool, a full-service spa, and an exclusive club lounge for select suites. Guests can book curated experiences, from private art tours to personalised culinary adventures.
Service
Attentive without being overbearing, the staff embody the hotel’s blend of Southern hospitality and polished professionalism. Personal touches like remembering your name, your drink order, or your preferred pillow, make you feel genuinely looked after.
Worth Knowing
The hotel’s art collection includes works by Sir Anthony Van Dyck and Thomas Gainsborough, with many pieces sourced from London auction houses. Guided art tours are available for guests who want to delve deeper into its treasures.
The Creative Traveller’s Verdict
For those who appreciate art, history, and a slower, more refined pace, Windsor Court Hotel is a destination in its own right. It’s the kind of place where the design is as considered as the service, and where you can step from the buzz of New Orleans straight into a world of vintage elegance.