The magnificent Gardens at Malmaison in St. Albans, Mo and its adjacent property, The Studio Inn at St. Albans, have announced that improvements totaling more than $1.35 million are being made to expand and enhance both properties. At The Gardens at Malmaison, ground has been cleared for the development of four new guest cottages and a permanent outdoor pavilion for private parties. In addition, a complete kitchen remodel and expansion is underway to increase capacity for weddings, corporate retreats and other special events.
When complete, the new cottages at The Gardens at Malmaison will consist of three buildings with stone and wood exteriors that will house a total of four, 550-square-foot units. Each unit will sleep two to four individuals and will feature a variety of amenities, including fireplaces, efficiency kitchens and private patios to enjoy the spectacular surroundings at The Gardens at Malmaison. The new accommodations will complement The Studio Inn at St. Albans, which already has six sleeping rooms and can currently accommodate up to twelve overnight guests. Foundation work on the new cottages and pavilion has begun and both are scheduled to open to the public in the Summer of 2014.
“Our new cottages are designed to provide additional lodging options for our out-of-town wedding and event guests. In addition, they will meet the needs of golfers, corporate retreat attendees and tourists visiting the St. Louis area wanting an upscale option for overnight accommodations,” said Datra Herzog, owner of The Gardens at Malmaison and The Studio Inn at St. Albans. “We have been working toward this addition for years and we are eager to see this dream come to fruition and look forward to welcoming guests next year.”
As the construction of the new guest cottages and pavilion continues, The Gardens at Malmaison will continue to offer lunch and brunch service on the weekends, along with a relaxing shopping experience in the expanded boutique which features a range of wines, custom gift baskets, the latest coffee table book by renowned local artist Bryan Haynes, seasonal florals including fresh Christmas trees, gift cards and other unique gifts. The hours for the boutique and light fare dining are Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. During construction, catered parties and other special events will still be accommodated. Reservations can be made by calling 636-458-0131.
To further enhance the guest’s experience, a new one-acre vineyard is also under development on the hill below The Studio Inn at St. Albans property, with the trellis system to support the vines now in place. Consisting of 11 rows of vines and 620 grape plants, the vineyard is expected to produce 6,000 bottles of wine annually. With the first planting set for Spring 2014, mature grapes will be available in about three to five years. The Gardens at Malmaison currently private labels some of their wine with St. James Winery. A wine cellar and designated area for wine dinners is also part of the changes coming to The Studio Inn. To additionally enrich the guest experience, a new commercial kitchen is also being added to increase its capacity to accommodate larger functions.
“As work progresses to enhance The Gardens at Malmaison and The Studio Inn, as well as the dining and special event experiences we offer, we appreciate the patience of our friends and neighbors,” noted Herzog. “Exciting changes are ahead, and we are eager to get the work completed so we can start a new chapter in St. Albans storied history.”
For more information on the work underway to expand and enhance The Gardens at Malmaison and The Studio Inn, contact Datra Herzog at 636-458-0131.
About The Gardens at Malmaison
The Gardens at Malmaison is a one-of-a-kind fine-dining destination and event venue in historic St. Albans, Mo. Originally built in 1843 as a barn, the main building was transformed and expanded in 1928 by Irene Johnson, who named it “The Old Barn Inn.” Reopened in May 2004 under its current name, The Gardens at Malmaison features acres of gorgeous gardens and manicured grounds designed to create an unparalleled atmosphere for weddings, corporate events and private parties.
About The Studio Inn at St. Albans
The Studio Inn at St. Albans is a charming and historic European-style bed and breakfast inn and event venue. Nestled on a hillside overlooking the Missouri River and St. Albans valley, The Studio’s unique blend of natural beauty and country hospitality have made it a go-to destination for weddings, corporate retreats, special events and weekend getaways.
For more information, contact:
Julie Hauser, The Hauser Group, (314) 436-9090
Datra Herzog, The Garden at Malmaison, (636) 458-0131