With the arrival of cooler weather and vibrant foliage, fans of “Gilmore Girls” often find themselves yearning for a rewatch of the beloved show set in the fictional town of Stars Hollow. While Stars Hollow itself may not exist, its spirit lives on in the Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut. This charming inn is rumored to have been the inspiration for the Independence Inn, central to the show’s narrative, drawing a steady stream of fans eager to experience its New England magic.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Celerie Kemble
Location: Washington, Connecticut
Show Inspiration: Gilmore Girls
Inn Name: Mayflower Inn & Spa
Design Style: Eclectic and Youthful
Renovation Period: 2019-2020
The Mayflower Inn & Spa, nestled in the heart of New England, offers a glimpse into the quaint, small-town charm that “Gilmore Girls” fans adore. The inn was last renovated between 2019 and 2020 by interior designer Celerie Kemble, who aimed to infuse a youthful vibrancy into its decor. With whimsical patterns, Swedish antiques, and soft materials, the inn has transformed into a lively and modern version of the Independence Inn, which was depicted with a more traditional aesthetic on the show.
In the series, the transition from the Independence Inn to the Dragonfly Inn parallels the real-life evolution of the Mayflower Inn. Kamerman, the show’s production designer, imagined the kind of layered, eclectic decor that would suit the dynamic duo of Lorelai and Sookie. The Dragonfly Inn’s style, characterized by its mixed patterns and distinctive furnishings, shares a resemblance with the modern Mayflower Inn through elements such as gallery walls and vintage decor accents.
A significant allure of these inns, both on the show and in reality, is their embodiment of New England’s charm and the enchantment of small-town life. The Mayflower Inn captures this essence with its warm communal areas and inviting lobby, making guests feel like they are part of an inclusive community. Kemble’s designs, complemented by seasonal bonfires, truly create a magical space that makes it easy to imagine the beloved “Gilmore Girls” characters meandering through.
The Mayflower Inn doesn’t just offer nostalgia for fans; it provides a luxurious yet homely experience. Each room, distinct in design, reflects the comforts of a residence rather than a conventional hotel. With plush cotton and woollen linens, the inn ensures guests feel cocooned in homely warmth. The mix of modern art with traditional portraits further enhances the ambiance, offering a perfect retreat that echoes the show’s themes of comfort and family.
Stepping into the Mayflower Inn feels like entering a world that Lorelai and Sookie would wholeheartedly embrace. Enveloped by the colorful transformation of autumn leaves, visitors can easily imagine themselves in Stars Hollow, savoring the tranquility and connection reminiscent of the Gilmore universe. This enchanting blend of reality and television fantasy offers a blissful escape for those yearning for a piece of the “Gilmore Girls” magic.
