The Whitley, A Luxury Collection Hotel

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

HOTEL DETAILS

3434 PEACHTREE ROAD
ATLANTA, GA 30324

+1 404-237-2700

www.thewhitleyhotel.com

Situated in the heart of Atlanta’s coveted Buckhead neighborhood on the corner of Peachtree and Lenox roads, The Whitley is an iconic property steps from world-class shopping, notable attractions, an exquisite culinary scene, and lively nightlife. Recently elevated to The Luxury Collection and newly transformed through a multi-million dollar renovation, The Whitley remains deeply rooted in Buckhead’s Southern history, paying tribute to the neighborhood’s legendary founder and historic trailblazer, John Whitley. A settler who migrated to the area in the 1800s seeking a haven for gathering, doing business and sharing ideas, The Whitley continues his goal of forming a location where conversations, knowledge and even wedding vows might be exchanged, while layering in attentive, anticipatory service far more luxurious than John Whitley could have ever dared to dream.

Reflective of the city it calls home, The Whitley is both stylishly chic and elegantly timeless, with drinks, food, and amenities that have been crafted and curated to embody the progressive spirit of Buckhead and the New South. The result is a luxurious guest experience steeped in genuine hospitality – a distinctive trait of true Southern culture that simply can’t be replicated.

Our new concept marries design and function with refined furnishings, accented by sophisticated, nature-inspired touches celebrating the heritage of the once “wild” area.

Tell us about the design of The Whitley, A Luxury Collection Hotel.

We recently completed a major renovation of all 507 guest rooms including 56 suites, the lobby and public spaces, The Spa and The Whitley Club Lounge. The land the hotel stands on today was known as Irbyville in the 1800s, tracing its origins to Henry Irby’s general store and saloon which welcomed travelers with a warm fireplace and large front porch. Legend has it John Whitley, a blacksmith by trade, hunted and mounted a large buck near Irby’s tavern to establish a gathering place where adventurous souls could meet and socialize. This place of hospitality came to be revered as Buckhead.

Our new concept reflects his craftsmanship by marrying design and function with refined furnishings, accented by sophisticated, nature-inspired touches celebrating the heritage of the once “wild” area. In addition, thoughtful metal and artisan details are reminiscent of Whitley’s blacksmithing forge.

Upon arrival, guests feel as if they’re welcomed to a traditional Southern home, greeted as friends and family by an inviting hearth lounge and our long-tenured associates. Our expanded lobby offers defined areas including the Sanctuary Lounge, Explorers Library or Front Porch Lounge where guests can conduct business, read about Atlanta's history or simply rest and relax. Today, porch culture is key in creating an authentic moment to everyday living. Our modern porch concept embodies Atlanta's hospitable culture, and we hope our visitors will relish in this special place.

What are three fun facts about the property that many are surprised to learn?

A subtle but noteworthy design detail, our guest room ceilings are painted in a calming shade of light blue. An old Southern tradition, folklore claims it to be a harbinger of good luck, and as a way to extend daylight and bring nature indoors.
We embrace the importance of traditions, and one of my favorite rituals at the hotel is our daily epicurean moment. Each day at 6:00 p.m. in our lounge we offer a sampling of our proprietary pecan bourbon. Hand-selected exclusively for the hotel’s guests, the smoky whiskey barrel drips over locally-sourced pecans resulting in a smooth and velvety tasting experience.
Our art collection is largely custom and local, paying homage to the area. You may discover portrait sketches in the guest rooms of various leaders, philanthropists and noteworthy figures who were instrumental to Atlanta in some form or fashion, such as John Wesley Dobbs, Rhoda Kaufman and Neil Reid.

What touches do you believe make a room or suite feel like someone’s home-away-from-home?

Our whole design concept is centered around creating a gathering place that feels equal parts luxurious and familiar; approachable. We have soothing color palettes throughout, décor that is interesting and beautiful but not fussy or overdone. Unique artworks, books and collectibles provide intrigue, encouraging guests to discover our space and lounge wherever they feel at home. Of course, here gracious hospitality reigns king and nothing is more comforting than that.

The Whitley Bedroom Suite

We offer options for our guests and aim to provide truly personalized experiences catering to their needs and desires. Our guests want to collect memories, to have a one-of-a-kind and original experiences, and we’re here to create that for them, whatever it looks like.

Walk us through your ideal stay at The Whitley.

My ideal stay at The Whitley begins with an early morning workout in our fitness center followed by a quick swim in the indoor pool and session in the sauna. If the weather is cooperating, I might venture outdoors for a run towards West Paces Ferry and the Atlanta History Center, near where John Whitley first mounted his buck and helped establish the community of Buckhead. There are some beautiful grand estates on this path.

Next, I would enjoy a housemade cold-pressed juice to kick-start my day. I tend to choose “Renew” with pineapple and ginger, but “Revitalize” is a close second. If I have some leisure time I’ll walk over to Phipps Plaza, Lenox Square or one of the nearby shopping districts to pick up some gifts or maybe a new dress shirt for myself.

Back at the hotel I may set up my computer to do some work in The Whitley Club Lounge on the 18th Floor. Our concierge-level offers three culinary presentations daily and our staff there knows most every guest and, most likely, how they take their martini. After enjoying a quick bite I would head down the 9th Floor for a hot stone massage at The Spa and park myself in the Himalayan salt room for some additional health benefits.

I’d make sure not to miss the bourbon tasting at 6:00 p.m., then pay a visit to Trade Root for a delectable Southern feast. I’d start with the smoked deviled eggs and opt for the seared sea scallops with white cheddar cheese grits. Maybe a slice of The Whitley Signature Chocolate Cake if I was feeling decadent. My day would wind down with a bit of reading in one of our Executive Suites, which offers a spacious separate living area. Nothing beats The Luxury Collection bed with cool, crisp Frette sheets for a night of peaceful Southern slumber.

What is your greatest indulgence at a hotel when you travel?

My greatest indulgence when traveling is in-room dining. There’s something about being able to wrap up in a plush bathrobe and have a spectacular meal delivered at the touch of a button that feels both decadent and relaxed all at once.

Can you share your go-to in-room dining order?

Whenever I’m traveling I try to order something that features indigenous flavors or sources local ingredients. I can definitely vouch for the sweet tea-brined chicken panini at The Whitley.

What is the most unique experience you’ve put together for a guest?

What impresses me most about our Whitley team is not the ability to create an over-the-top experience, although I have seen that happen plenty of times. What stands out to me is the series of moments that occur from start to finish. It’s our driver making a special trip to collect a guest from the airport when her flight is delayed, to the concierge surprising the guest with tickets to the theatre. The spa team decorating the relaxation lounge in the bride’s favorite colors for wedding day prep, to our club lounge staff having Mr. Griffin’s Old Fashioned mixed and waiting at his preferred table alongside his favorite roasted pecans. Unique experiences are unique to our guests, and when we take the time to listen and understand them, develop relationships and anticipate their needs with surprise touches, those are the “wow” moments.

If you only had 24 hours in Atlanta, where would you visit?

Buckhead would be my go-to destination for shopping and I would definitely spend some time walking or biking on the Atlanta Beltline, exploring the public art and restaurants along the path. A visit to the High Museum, Botanical Gardens and Marquee Club at The Fox would complete the Atlanta experience, and I’d recommend catching an outdoor music show at Chastain Park.

What do you believe is the greatest hidden gem in Atlanta?

It’s really tough to identify just one because one of my favorite things about Atlanta is that there are a whole host of hidden gems and discoveries at every turn. Atlanta is a thriving metropolitan hub; a melting pot of cultures, people, cuisine and offerings. We are known as a driver’s city, but over the last few years, there has been a huge focus on the development of creative spaces and individual districts. Each neighborhood has its own unique energy and personality, and I love the fact that you can pick a destination within the city and have a totally unique and different experience than the next.

In your opinion, what is the best time of year to visit Atlanta? Why?

Spring brings a lot of vibrancy throughout the city with festivals, concerts, and sports games. You’re never short on entertainment, plus I love the dogwoods that bloom this time of year. Fall is also great for football games and events. Visitors and natives are ready for a nice seasonal change after the Georgia summer.

Why do you travel?

I travel to learn, to expand my knowledge about other cultures and expose myself and my family to different world views. I honestly believe travel to be one the most enriching and rewarding life experiences. Every excursion doesn’t have to be a lavish week-long getaway. Even a quick day trip can be an adventure – creating memories and evoking emotion.

How do you define luxury?

Today, luxury means different things to different travelers. Luxury service is anticipatory and elevated, but it doesn’t necessarily mean formal and traditional. We offer options for our guests and aim to provide truly personalized experiences catering to their needs and desires. Our guests want to collect memories, to have a one-of-a-kind and original experiences, and we’re here to create that for them, whatever it looks like.

What does it feel like to wrap yourself in Frette?

Complete bliss. Fine bed and bath linens are synonymous with luxury. Frette is the icing on the cake following a day of pampering, relaxation, adventure or even business travel. It’s reassuring, soothing and calming.