Want to travel back in time? Just choose one of nine themed suites at the new Somewhere Inn Time and you're there.
When Jeanette Shepherd first thought of building the unique themed bed and breakfast/reception center, she considered a site in Cedar Hills.But when that didn't work out, she was able to purchase 5 acres in Lindon almost the day it went up for sale. "It's been a long time coming," she said of Somewhere Inn Time, which recently opened for business just off State Street here.
"There were not a lot of places in Utah County" to hold receptions, said the caterer of 10 years. The Inn was at first to become just a reception center, but then she decided to expand her plans into a romantic bed and breakfast inn. The concept was so unique, she said, that it was difficult to get a construction loan. Finally, Brighton Bank in Salt Lake City agreed.
The new $1.5 million Victorian building reposes on a hill taking in views of Utah Lake to the west, the LDS Mount Timpanogos Temple to the north and Mount Timpanogos on the east from its many windows and wrap-around porch. "It's so peaceful," she said as she looked out onto the five-acre parcel where gardens, a gazebo and lawn are still in her mind's eye.
Opening through double doors with vintage oval windows to a wide reception area that seats 150 for dinner, the inn's main floor focal point is a staircase with custom brass Victorian accents. It ascends to the nine themed rooms decorated to depict various periods in time.
The Aspen Room, for example, has an Old West theme with an antique pump that fills the jetted tub, while a suit of armor sets off the Camelot suite. A Sherlock Holmes room displays a manly decor, while the Victorian suite is more feminine.
The Bonnie and Clyde room depicts the pre-war period and is the inn's smallest. The Dawning of Time suite features a cloud-airbrushed ceiling, cherub waterfall and almost reverent atmosphere. The LDS temple is a focal point from the north window.
For the history buff, the 1776 room is appointed with antiques while the Mount Olympus suite, complete with a bust of Zeus, takes in views of the temple, the lake and Mount Timpanogos through its bay window. "It reminds me of standing on top of a mountain," Shepherd said.
The largest room is the rustic Sleepy Hollow suite, complete with a burly log-framed bed from Canada and a sink set into a tree stump.
Each room includes a fireplace and jetted tub, two with double shower heads. VCRs with movies matching the period each room depicts and themed music add to the atmosphere. A library of movies will also be available.
While Shepherd caters to wedding receptions, the inn is also expected to attract a wide audience - travelers, business people and those celebrating special events or who "just want to get away."
Rates range from $98 to $198 a night, double occupancy with Tuesdays reserved at a discount of $99 for any room. The inn also has corporate rates.