A one-of-a-kind boutique hotel set inside a restored church in East Nashville — design-driven, intimate, and highly original, with a strong sense of place and personality.
Why We Chose It
The Russell is one of the most distinctive stays in Nashville — a 23-room boutique hotel set inside a restored 1904 church in East Nashville, where historic architecture and bold, modern design intersect in a way that feels entirely unique to the city. The transformation preserves the building’s defining features — soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and original brickwork — while layering in vibrant color, custom furnishings, and locally sourced design elements. Former church pews have been repurposed into headboards, and the lobby (once the sanctuary) centers around dramatic stained glass that informs the entire palette of the hotel. Each room is individually shaped by the building’s architecture, resulting in layouts that vary in size and configuration but consistently deliver strong natural light, thoughtful detailing, and a sense of character rarely found in traditional hotels. The experience is intentionally concierge-less and tech-driven, with a more independent, self-service approach that aligns with the hotel’s boutique ethos. Amenities are streamlined — there’s no full-service restaurant, spa, or pool — but rooms are well-equipped with premium bedding, smart TVs, and modern comforts. Located in East Nashville, the hotel sits in one of the city’s most creative and locally driven neighborhoods — quieter and more residential than downtown, but filled with restaurants, coffee shops, and bars, and just a short drive to Broadway and the main tourist core. A defining part of the hotel’s identity is its “Rooms for Rooms” program, which donates a portion of every stay to support local homelessness initiatives — reinforcing the property’s strong connection to community and purpose. This is not a traditional luxury hotel — it’s a design-led, experience-driven boutique stay best suited for travelers who value originality, architecture, and atmosphere over amenities.
What Stands Out
- Converted 1904 church with preserved stained glass + architecture
- Just 23 rooms (intimate, highly curated scale)
- Bold, colorful, design-forward interiors
- Located in East Nashville (creative, local neighborhood)
- “Rooms for Rooms” philanthropic program
- Free parking + strong value for design level
- Tech-enabled, concierge-less experience