A Sweet Serving of Savannah's History

If you’ve visited the delectable Foxy Loxy Cafe in Savannah, Georgia, then you’ve definitely tried to sneak a peek into the charming gingerbread house neighboring it. Jen Jenkins, the owner of the cafe, has admired it as well for almost a decade. The building shares a courtyard with Foxy Loxy and has become an iconic site due to its elaborately detailed trim and arches. 

In 2021 however, Jenkins was able to strike a deal with the owners and purchase the property.  With the keys and a newfound responsibility, she had vivid dreams of the potential for the old mansion despite being intimidated by what the iconic home represents. The house is often featured on postcards and is one of the most photographed buildings in the City. She knew that when locals and tourists think of Savannah, they picture this romantic, Steamboat Gothic storybook home, framed by a 200-year-old oak tree, and they may not respond well to change. But Jenkins proved that she was the right person for the restoration; insisting that the purchase was simply her turn to take care of the property. 

The 125-year-old Gingerbread House, also known as the Asendorf House, was built by the German-American businessman Cord Asendorf for his family. Asendorf chose to build the home in the Gingerbread style that was prevalent in the Black Forest region of Germany. The house has stopped American presidents in their tracks, has appeared in books, and even on the big screen. Today, the house is most commonly used for weddings and intimate events. With Savannah ranking high amongst the most romantic cities in the U.S., it's no surprise the house would be such a coveted venue. Couples renting the home have access to the entire property including the romantic back patio. 

While the house’s original architecture has remained in perfect condition, the interiors have failed to match the magic felt when your eyes dance upon the delicate exterior trim. Enter interior designer Amy Lind. Jenkins enlisted the help of the Amy Lind Interiors team with the goal of breathing new life into the space. With the multicolored exterior trim, it was a no-brainer for Lind to bring a variety of vibrant colors to the interior as well.

The creative pair agreed they didn’t want the space to feel stuffy. Fancy and sophisticated, perhaps, but comfortable– a stylish place where you can still kick your feet up and relax. Guests can do so in any of the three bedrooms, living room, and breakfast nook. And while relaxing, look up! Almost all of the ceilings are splashed with color. Coral in the living room and emerald in the bedrooms. The joyful use of color highlights all the original architectural features. The primary bedroom is centered around an ornate fireplace painted in an unexpectedly delightful chartreuse. 

the teal lounge with rounded wet bar

The star of the lounge is a wet bar inspired by the exterior porch railings. The rounded edges, designed by Lind, and built by JD Painting & Carpentry, is a glamorous showstopper with reeded white oak, glass, and brass shelving. The curve motif continues into the lighting selections, including the dining chandelier and sconces, and even the furniture. The lounge sofa, a gorgeous deep teal, subtly arches to encourage conversation. The guest beds in the second bedroom have custom-designed yellow headboards with an oversized scallop detail (American Pegasus, Savannah Quality Upholstery) that echoes the arched trim that can be seen through the bedroom window.

Throughout the home, Jenkins has displayed her carefully curated art collection. Over the years she’s acquired special pieces and even created her own, all of which now have a meaningful spot on the home’s walls. The traditional architecture balanced with Lind’s modern furniture selections the layered, lived-in decor and playful patterns, create an ideal blend of old and new.

Jenkins personal art collection can be seen throughout the home

As fabulous as the new eclectic interiors are, Jenkins's favorite part of the restoration is its impact on guests. Not only can you rent out the house, but a local business has now found its home within its magnificent walls.

Through the property’s iron gates sits the second location of the beloved E. Shaver Booksellers just to the right of the main entrance. Jenkins reached out to E. Shaver after learning of their need for a new event space for author talks and other literary events. There’s even a cafe tucked into the back, featuring a wooden bar from the original room. 

For Jenkins, it didn’t seem right that a Savannah icon was reserved for destination weddings. With her efforts, it’s now a feature of the Starland District, with the goal of bringing the community together. So, for all the curious who have dreamed of getting a look into the iconic Gingerbread house, now's your chance!