I first heard about The Sanitarium from Raylene a few years ago, and was reminded of it again recently by hip cats Tom and Whitney. It has been extensively and lovingly restored to a bed and breakfast, but its colorful history began in the 1880s (as a boarding house, sanitarium, fraternity and sorority house, and private residence). Some of these photos are taken from their website but seriously, the pictures do not do this place justice! Come and stay here!
It was insanely (yes, pun intended) relaxing... the fresh, airy palette was at once cool and calming, while the antique furnishings and (original) colorful artwork, stained glass, crockery, and effects were warm and inviting- it was pretty much like being in a giant Anthropologie store without all the clothing. Call me crazy, but I could most definitely live there!
Most rooms are furnished with large metal Moroccan soaking tubs, wood burning fireplaces, and private balconies. Unfortunately it was too chilly to take a nap on the hammock or sit outside for too long! But I did get to enjoy a hot soak in the giant tub!
The rooms are aptly named to induce a state of Euphoriasm or Tranquilibrium or Epiphenization... we were in the Epiphinezation(?) Room. Our mental state may have been altered from our lack of sleep in the last 24 hours or perhaps the overstimulation of being at the Sanitarium!
The Euphoriasm Room had an exotic, romantic Moroccan sleigh bed with colorful quilts, pillows, and poufs!
Our generous bathroom had vintage fixtures, antique mirrors, handcut marble tile floors and walls, and was complete with an old enamel trashcan and little cups of shampoo and shower gel in the spacious shower. Unfortunately I don't have pics of our bathroom, but here are some equally inspiring bathrooms in the other rooms:
P and I were so inspired by the gorgeous mixture of colors, styles, textures, and carefully thought out details (tasseled keys! little tray of Epsom bath salts! salt and pepper shakers!) and especially loved the friendly, easygoing California vibe.
In the open communal lounge/kitchen downstairs, guests are welcome to read, paint in the studio, play music, grab a glass or mug from the open shelves for some wine or tea, or chat with the laid-back staff or other guests.
Tall glass French doors beside the massive farmhouse table framed a thriving garden with a trickling fountain and koi pond while enormous antique tin framed mirrors reflected the beautifully decorated house. We recognized the little touches here and there of the "medical" influences, but appreciated that they were not too over the top.
This was my first stay at a B&B, but I have a feeling that this is unlike what I imagine as a typical B&B experience- dark, conservative, Victorian, and stuffy.I'd love to come back again, or imagine that someday I'll have a place just like this!
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