Taste of Europe
Heights House Hotel is a quintessential blend of charm, history, and hospitality
BY BLAIR KNOBEL
Heights House Hotel is the vision of Sarah and Jeff Shepherd, former residents of Raleigh’s historic Boylan Heights neighborhood. The Shepherds purchased and renovated the historic Italianate-style mansion, commissioned in 1858 by William Montford Boylan, and opened their boutique hotel in 2021.
Sarah Shepherd won’t let an opportunity pass her by—even if she must create it. On walks with her husband, Jeff, in Raleigh’s Boylan Heights neighborhood, the enterprising Shepherd had a vision: to purchase and restore the Italianate mansion Montford Hall into a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel.
The catch? The historic home was not for sale. Undeterred, Shepherd presented an offer and she and Jeff soon became part of the property’s nearly 200-year history—the stately mansion, commissioned by William Montford Boylan in 1858, was theirs.
A stay at Heights House is a touchpoint to the past, and it’s exactly the kind of place that speaks to those of us who appreciate attention to detail, hospitality, preservation, and a well-made cocktail.
The Shepherds worked with Maurer Architecture, Greg Paul Builders, and Bryan Costello Design to restore and renovate the mansion, which opened in 2021, perched atop the city’s highest point. The boutique hotel’s nine suites feature Nespresso machines, luxe linens and bath products, and cleverly disguised televisions that hang like artwork. Sunlight pours in through tall arched windows, splashing across original hardwood floors. The couple carefully selected the custom furniture and artwork, much of it Italian-made or inspired to complement the home’s architectural style. Earth tones and a minimalist aesthetic enhance the hotel’s thoughtful spaces.
Guests can mix and mingle with those who come to enjoy the hotel’s cocktail bar, The Parlor, offering a varied menu of vintage and modern cocktails along with a plentiful list of Italian wines, artfully curated cheese and charcuterie, and artisanal snacks. The Parlor also features culinary experiences, such as Sunday Sauce, a weekly dinner featuring homemade pasta from the hotel’s culinary team, and afternoon tea service. A complimentary European-style breakfast, replete with fresh pastries from nearby bakeshop Boulted Bread, as well as a glass of Prosecco upon check-in, distinguish the guest experience at the hotel.
Through Heights House, the Shepherds continue a historic legacy and have created a soulful place to celebrate, connect, or simply unwind. One visit will not be enough. V
Photography courtesy of Heights House Hotel; this story appears in our winter 2025 issue.
Heights House Hotel, 308 S Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC. heightshousenc.com
