Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection, a resort nestled in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, has debuted a significant redesign effort that redefines back-to-nature luxury and sensibility in the Southeast.
In collaboration with design firm, Chad Dorsey Design, the renovation introduces fully refreshed public spaces, a new signature restaurant, Leatherflower, as well as two brand new Mountain Top Tree House Suites.
Chad Dorsey, owner, Chad Dorsey Design, said he was inspired by the “unique beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the timeless charm of a classic Virginia Inn. The design needed to reflect the warmth guests associate with the concept of a mountain resort, while introducing bespoke and hand-crafted details that reflect the Auberge Resorts Collection brand. All while maintaining a sense of place. Each detail was carefully selected with intention and meaning, creating a retreat that feels familiar and is intimately tied to its context.”
At the heart of the property is the Lodge, a regal structure with several gathering spaces that Dorsey reimagined with designs that blend casual sophistication with the warmth and hospitality synonymous with the Southeastern region that the hotel calls home.
A two-story space with views of the rolling fairways and Blue Ridge Mountains, The Great Hall, serves as the primary gathering place for guests. The new interiors showcase a blend of antique, American, European and custom furniture. Plaid and floral fabrics add depth and texture, while handcrafted wooden mantels encasing two fireplaces create inviting focal points, for gathering, sharing stories and making new memories in Virginia’s Highlands.
“The design of the Great Hall, with its rich plaid and floral fabrics, antique and custom furnishings, and handcrafted mantels, was the main opportunity to create the quintessential Virginia Inn experience,” he said. “We maintained the property’s spirit and warmth throughout the common areas by blending elements reflective of local tradition such as American quilts by Kyle Bunting, honoring the local heritage.”
In the Study, a custom desk and built-in bookshelves feature locally sourced artwork, books and. The room is encased by Pierre Frey wallcoverings in marigold hues, illustrating the dense Virginia forests and timeless landscapes of the region.
“The Study showcases locally sourced artwork and artifacts, grounding the space in the history of the region,” said Dorsey. “Two STRIKE fireplaces invite gathering points for guests to enjoy conversations and breathtaking views of the hills. A third group of furniture facing the large window fosters additional gathering and encourages guests to enjoy getting lost in the experience of The Lodge.”
The introduction of Leatherflower, the property’s newest farm-to-table restaurant, anchors the enhancement project.
A bespoke epicurean journey through the tastes of Southern Appalachia, Leatherflower, much like the native Clematis flower that inspired its name, features dishes deeply rooted in the bounty of the land. The restaurant, helmed by Executive Chef Zach Long, offers seasonal menus that showcase ingredients from the property’s farm and greenhouse, as well as local mills, farms and suppliers.
Thoughtfully designed, exposed beams, floral grasscloth wallcovering and expansive windows frame the stunning landscape views of the 18-hole championship-caliber golf course. Finely detailed furniture, including elegant dining tables and upholstered chairs and banquettes, reflects a high appreciation for artisanal craft, and invites guests to revel in panoramic views of the majestic mountains beyond through intimate seating arrangements. Vibrant patterns in blue, green, coral and cream capture the spirit of the outdoors, and abundant greenery provides continuity with the flora outside, immersing guests in this unique culinary experience.
“We felt the dining experience of Leatherflower, the resort’s newest farm-to-table restaurant should be an immersive experience of the natural beauty and whimsical spirit of Southern Appalachia,” said the designer. “Inspired by the local Clematis flower, its vibrant patterns and textures mirror the landscape outside.”
The refresh also included the completion of two new Mountain Top Tree Houses. Built into the trees and perched above the Dan River Gorge, the new Tree House suites overlook the Kibler Valley with sprawling views of the breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife surrounds.
“For the Mountain Top Tree Houses that are—as the name suggests—built into the trees, the suites give guests the sensation of floating above the Dan River Gorge,” said Dorsey.
In addition, HawkEye, a private residence was added. “Every detail is curated to enhance the guest’s tranquility and luxury experience,” he said. “From its regionally inspired log cabin architecture to plush, cozy furnishings selected with refined comfort and relaxation in mind. Custom upholstery and case goods are complemented by antiques from the likes of celebrated French ceramicist Roger Capron, whose botanical inspired coffee table overlooks the valley below.”
The residence includes a game room outfitted with a green felt pool table, custom mohair banquette, pinball machine, arcade games and a wing back chair covered in a woodland inspired textile from Schumacher.
“A color palette of rich ochres, purples and blues draw from the mountain sunsets and lush forests,” added Dorsey. “The finale is a pool deck overlooking the expansive blue ridge mountains with generously scaled sofas and chairs for lounging from Brown Jordan.”