Ulysses

Baltimore, USA - map
www.ash.world

Ulysses, a captivating establishment situated in the historic Latrobe building in the serene Mount Vernon neighborhood, exudes an unassuming exterior that belies the mesmerizing world within its walls. Stepping through its entrance, visitors are transported into a realm where every detail narrates a story, and the atmosphere teeters on the edge of extravagance without tumbling over the precipice.

The foyer, an artistic prelude to the Ulysses experience, boasts elaborate mosaics with serpentine patterns in faded copper and green, set against a lapis background. Goya-esque oil paintings grace the walls, while matching amphorae rest on marble plinths between the stairs. It's a theatrical and expressive introduction—a hint of the dramatic, the extraordinary, yet carefully balanced.

Ulysses caters to a specific clientele: those who revel in the intricacies of hotel design, appreciating the significance of even the smallest details. Whether they are business professionals from cool design firms, poetry-reading lawyers with a penchant for anarchy, or art history students discussing electives over Manhattans, Ulysses beckons those who understand that every nuance contributes to a greater whole.

The hotel has already become a local hotspot, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. With its Studio 54-meets-The Shining-meets-Rocky Horror Picture Show ambiance at the cocktail bar, Bloom's, the energy is palpable. Ulysses has seamlessly integrated itself into the neighborhood, answering a demand for a place that reflects the vibrant soul of Baltimore.

Ulysses is the brainchild of Ash, a New York City-based hotelier known for their detail-oriented approach. Other successful projects under their belt include The Dean in Providence, Hotel Peter & Paul in New Orleans, and The Siren in Detroit. The brand is drawn to cities with character, seeking locales that extend beyond trendy restaurants and have a story to tell. In Baltimore, Ulysses draws inspiration from the eclectic influences of John Waters, the dining cars of steam engines, and even the namesake ship that brought immigrants to the city.

The guest rooms at Ulysses are a testament to the intentional design philosophy—nothing is accidental. Each room follows one of four color schemes, alternating between moody green and blue on lower floors and hazy yellow and burnt red on higher ones. The corridors mirror the colors of the rooms, creating a cohesive visual experience. The rooms, adorned with colored-glass lanterns, beaded lampshades from Jaipur, and leopard-printed carpeting, evoke a sense of belonging to one of four color-coded "houses." Handmade quilts inspired by Baltimore Album Quilts add a personalized touch, each telling a unique story explained in the daily newsletter provided to guests.

The bathrooms are joyfully eclectic, with pink-and-black tiled walls and Art Deco mirrors. Lather bathroom products, customized by Ash, enhance the luxurious experience. Practical amenities such as a blowdryer, eye masks, clothing steamer, and comfortable beds complement the aesthetic, creating a delightful balance between functionality and style.

The dining experience at Ulysses centers around Ash Bar, the hotel's primary dining destination. The restaurant's ambiance, with glossy burled wood walls, rattan chairs, and embroidered red cushions, mirrors the overall aesthetic of the hotel. The menu, a fusion of Continental, French, and Italian influences, offers refined yet comforting dishes. Brunch features soft scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, yogurt with figs and pear slices, and a unique croque madame. While the morning atmosphere at Ash Bar is described as somewhat dark, the suggestion to open the window slats to invite more light is offered.

Bloom's, the adjacent cocktail bar, boasts a fun and funky atmosphere with an undulating mirrored ceiling, blood-red banquettes, and a centrally stationed bar. Specialty shots like the Nip Slip and Ferrari add to the vibrant experience, and even if Bloom's is full, guests can head to Ash Bar for continued libations. Renowned mixologist Lane Harlan is set to open The Coral Wig, a tropical cocktail bar on the hotel's lower level, enhancing Ulysses' reputation as a nightlife destination.

While the hotel impresses with its meticulous design and vibrant atmosphere, the reviewer provides constructive feedback, suggesting additional lighting in the rooms, the inclusion of slippers and robes for all rooms, and the possibility of a minifridge. Despite these minor suggestions, Ulysses stands as a testament to Ash's commitment to creating immersive and unforgettable experiences within the boutique hotel realm. Ulysses is an accessible luxury destination for those seeking a unique and memorable stay in Baltimore.