It’s no secret that travel inspires design. A different landscape and vernacular are quick to stir the imagination and ignite ideas. From gardens to interiors and architecture, English designs have long influenced Southern style. Just take a look at Barnsley Resort in the North Georgia mountains. Built around the ruins of a storied 18th-century manor and gardens, the resort offers modern appeal yet stays true to its historical endeavors.
Barnsley Resort’s origins harken back nearly two centuries, but it was opened to guests just 25 years ago. Design influences are thanks to the vision of the original owner, Savannah shipping magnate Godfrey Barnsley, who had an affection for the work of landscape architect Andrew Jackson Downing. In the late 1980s, an ambitious Bavarian Prince purchased the property. Today the resort flourishes under the ownership of South Street Partners.
The cottages at Barnsley Resort were built to replicate the Carpenter Gothic styles that Downing and architect Alexander Jackson Davis published in a pattern book in the 1840s. Situated in a village atmosphere, the resort features cottages, gardens, an inn, restaurants, a clubhouse, a spa, and the ruins of the original manor that all intertwine via pathways. Recently renovated, the 39 cottages showcase fresh yet historical style thanks to Charlotte Lucas Design out of Charlotte, North Carolina. “The design vision innately came from the strong connection between the resort, the lush gardens, and its rich history,” Charlotte says.
Guest cottages range from one to seven bedrooms, and each features a living area with a fireplace, a separate bedroom with king-sized bed, and a bath with a claw-foot soaking tub.
“We were thoughtful to include a range of subject matter and mediums with the art in the cottage redesign,” Charlotte says of the traditionally-appointed interiors. “Similar to the inspiration for the furnishings, we wanted the art to speak to the resort and the expansive 3,000-acre property. We included still lifes, landscapes, equestrian themes, and more to resonate with the ethos of Barnsley Resort.”
How to Recreate the Barnsley Resort Look
Designer Charlotte Lucas offers her tips for creating the cozy look of Barnsley’s cottages in your own home.
Accentuate the setting with pillows. Pillows create a warm welcome and are a nice way to add pops of color and texture to a room.
Accessorize, but keep it simple. Sculptures, lamps, and flowers give a space personality. We implemented nature-inspired pieces like cast-iron bird sculptures and wooden crisscross hangers that invite guests to hang their hats and jackets.
Create an accent wall. To add surprise-and-delight moments, we covered niches and baths with nature-centric wallpaper.
Resources
Charlotte Lucas: charlottelucasdesign.com, IG: @CharlotteHLucas Cottage wallpaper: Glen Plaid from Aux Abris in Cambridge Grey; Accent wallpaper: Emma from Ferrick Mason in Cinnabar Coffee Paint color for cottage living room trim, doors, and millwork: Sherwin-Williams Gris (SW 7659) Bedroom and bathroom walls: Sherwin-Williams Ibis White (SW 7000) Bedroom trim: Sherwin-Williams Smoky Blue (SW 7604)
Find Yourself at Barnsley Resort
Discover the charms and experience the adventures in all that Barnsley Resort has to offer.
The Ruins. Explore the remains and history of the villa, and stroll the classic boxwood parterre garden.
Hiking, Horseback Riding, Biking & UTV Trail Riding. The resort covers 3,000 acres and offers forests and fields to explore by any mode of transportation.
Golf & Pickleball. A 378-acre Jim Fazio championship golf course winds around the resort’s lake, forests, and gardens. Pickleball courts are a new introduction.
Lawn Games. Make s’mores at one of the many fire pits around the pedestrian village, or find a pickup game of cornhole or bocce ball.
Sporting Clays and Hunting. Take your shot at any of the 15-station sporting clays courses, or venture into some of the country’s best quail hunting grounds (in partnership with Beretta).
Pool, Spa & Fitness. The saltwater pool is a refreshing place to relax after a spa session or workout.
Lake Sports. Canoes, kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and fishing rods are available for use on a serene 10-acre lake.
Dining:
- Woodlands Grill: Southern favorites in a hospitable club setting.
- Biergarten: Casual, open-air setting offering beer, cocktails, and German fare such as hot pretzels and bratwurst, as well as wings, salads, and barbecue.
- The Rice House: Elegant dining in a historic 19th-century farmhouse. (Currently under renovation. Reopening under a new concept late Spring 2025.)
Barnsley Resort Memberships & Private Events
Annual memberships to Barnsley Resort offer benefits and privileges for golf, hunting, or shooting 365 days a year, as well as exclusive events and offers just for members. Looking for a completely unforgettable venue for a special occasion? The Manor House and Pavilion transforms into a private event, reception, or ceremony space that is unmatched. barnsleyresort.com
