Son Jim Smith runs the place now. Ned's widow, Marge, did most of the quilt work, and his daughter, Kate, did much of the decorative painting. The hotel, popular with honeymooners, caters to adults rather than to families with children. This upscale St. Helena hotel, which opened in November 1995, looks something like a winery with its earth tones and creeping vines. The resemblance is no coincidence, as architect William Turnbull Jr. is known for his winery design.
French doors open onto a private balcony overlooking the courtyard.
The inn has a lap pool and a full-service health club with steam, weights and stationary bikes. It was an upscale hotel when it was built back in 1881, but soon deteriorated into a second-floor flophouse over the local Montgomery Ward. Now it has recaptured and redefined its glory. At ground level are shops and a flowery arcade, plus a wine and coffee bar in the lobby. There is a sitting room at the top of the stairs and a TV-equipped solarium overlooking the arcade.