“Russell Nashville” *Hotel Review*

For my husband’s birthday, our trip to Houston, TX was cancelled. I wanted to make his day as special as possible. I started to think of what I could do here in Nashville that would feel like we went out of town. I researched boutique hotels here in Nashville. I love boutique hotels because they are unique. Boutique hotels are normally swanky hotels with a limited number rooms. Normally, they are hiding in plain sight, which I love.

I came across Russell Hotel in East Nashville and was intrigued. One, I’ve drove pass this place several times and had no clue it was hotel. Two, I really thought it was a church. Three, none of the rooms are designed alike. Four, most of the profits received from the bookings go toward non-profit organization to help the homeless and Nashville community.

The history of this building is pretty unique. In 1904, the building was constructed as the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. It was purchased in 1913 by the Russell Street Church (then Woodland Street Church of Christ). Luckily, the church was unharmed during the East Nashville fire of 1916. Over the next 80+ years the church has served the Nashville community. In 1998, the church suffered significant damage during a tornado. The repairs exceeded the cost of the insurance settlement and the church had to sell. The building was eventually sold and a developer who repaired the damage. Eventually, Anchor Investment came in and made it to the beautiful hotel we see today.

The Russell opened in June 2019, boasting an eclectic design with a message to its clients, “Stay Here, Change Lives”. The design was inspired by the stained glass windows. The style is a mixture of 50s, 60s, 70s and modern design. The mixture of warm wood tones with pastel and bold colors creates a vibrant, yet welcoming, atmosphere for all its clients. Not one room is designed the same.

The most obvious unique touch about the hotel for many is the fact that it was a church. But, to me the most unique touch is, there is absolutely no staff in the building. The owners rely on modern technology for check in and check out. Each room has a coded keypad with its own unique code that you will received in an email prior to arrival. You will receive a code for the front door as well. The other unique things were the podcast room, where you can record your music and podcast. There is also a photo booth to capture your memories at the Russell Hotel. Music is playing in the lobby where you can drink free coffee and tea. There’s also a small library where you can enjoy reading and relaxing during your stay.

We stayed in room 2:P (The Penthouse). Upon entry I was speechless. The decor, the colors, and the VIEW! We had a perfect view of the stained glass window in the front of the building. The private indoor balcony was really cool because it made it feel like we were outdoors, but inside. The baby blue custom plush head board and, the BATHROOM was stunning. The claw foot tub inside the walk in shower was clever and the perfect touch.

The Russell paid attention to detail making sure clients are well equipped with information and items needed. There was a book on the table with information on each area in Nashville. Each part of Nashville was broken down to explain its uniqueness; where to eat, where to hangout, down to where you can get coffee. Adding details of Nashville from books, to popcorn from local shops, and art work. Quiet hours start at 10 P.M.; which I thought was a nice gesture to keep all clients happy.

Overall, I love The Russell. Help is a phone call or email away during your stay. I felt welcomed and at home. I never once felt unsafe. I will definitely stay again. Thank you to management of The Russell for everything.

Stay Here, Change Lives

Russell Nashville