Located in the Butchertown neighborhood of Louisville, Kentucky, this unique rental property and boutique, known as Paire Hospitality, transports visitors into a moody Old World apartment reminiscent of Italy. Designed by Jaclyn Journey and Amanda Jacobs, the space aims to embody the concept of “philoxenia,” a Greek term that encompasses the idea of hospitality and kindness toward strangers or travelers. The design reflects the duo’s diverse cultural backgrounds, with roots in Greece, Russia, Lebanon, and Syria.
The rental, situated above the Journey + Jacobs design studio, features curated vintage elements and personal touches, creating an atmosphere that feels like a warm invitation into the designers’ homes. Despite its vintage charm, the space is thoughtfully designed to provide guests with a comfortable and well-curated experience during their stay in Louisville. The adjoining boutique showcases a selection of the designers’ favorite products, offering visitors a unique shopping experience alongside the charming rental accommodations.
Dating back to the 1800s, the historic charm of the home provides a rich backdrop for the designers to infuse the space with history and vintage details. The interior reflects a desire to create an inviting and comfortable atmosphere, allowing guests to experience a homey extension during their stay. Vintage elements and carefully chosen furnishings contribute to the lived-in and well-traveled ambiance, fostering a sense of warmth and beauty in every corner of the space. Luxury robes hanging in the corner add a touch of indulgence, enhancing the overall experience for visitors at Paire Hospitality in downtown Louisville.
The vintage charm of the rental is accentuated by meticulous details, with lime wash paint emerging as a standout design element. Applied to the walls and ceilings throughout the space, the velvety texture and aged appearance of the Old World plaster create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The bedroom, in particular, showcases a stunning lavender tone that enhances the overall aesthetic.
Additionally, the bedroom features carefully curated vintage pieces, sourced from antique malls, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace. Each item, including the gallery wall and light fixtures, contributes to the intentional and collected feel of the space. The gallery wall, crafted piece by piece through vintage flea market finds, reflects the designers’ commitment to a unique and personalized aesthetic, showcasing a blend of their favorite prints in vintage frames for a distinctive and cost-effective touch.
The kitchen seamlessly blends Scandinavian modernity with vintage elements, featuring narrow wood paneling and a retro fridge. The space is adorned with thoughtful details, including a European-inspired painting and vintage pottery, creating a charming and cohesive aesthetic.
Adjacent to the kitchen, a delightful breakfast nook provides a cozy spot to enjoy morning coffee and pastries. The eclectic style of Journey and Jacobs is evident in the mix of a bistro table and traditional chairs, showcasing their unique design sensibility. A standout piece in the kitchen, according to Jacobs, is the iron cafe table, with its vibrant blue hue and classic Parisian design, serving as the perfect centerpiece for the surrounding chairs.
The bathroom boasts a charming blend of vintage elements, featuring an old-school vanity and classic blue and white toile wallpaper. The nostalgic ambiance is further enhanced by the penny tile on the floor, evoking a sense of getting ready in 20th-century Paris.
Maintaining the authenticity of the building’s age was a key consideration for Journey and Jacobs, who aimed to embrace its historical charm rather than modernize it. They adhered to a guiding principle: “Would an elegant grandmother from Europe have it in her home?” If the answer was yes, the item was deemed fitting for the space.
In a city with numerous Airbnb options, Journey emphasizes that their space stands out due to the intentional way they invite people into their lives through thoughtful design curation.
Paire Hospitality is more than just accommodation; it’s a genuine escape designed for peace and relaxation. Guests are encouraged to appreciate the unique beauty of the town without feeling like tourists. The space, curated with care and thoughtfulness, aims to provide an authentic and immersive experience for those seeking a tranquil retreat.
