MODERN LOVE AT THE DRISKELL

We’re all familiar with the large historical homes lining Government Street in downtown Mobile. On most of our beaten paths, we’re able to witness the transformative renovations in real time when a brave buyer steps in to bring them back to their former glory. Interestingly, many younger individuals and couples are scooping up these properties. Armed with Pinterest boards and an appreciation for yesteryear’s craftmanship, their experiences are full of twists and turns, tears and laughter, and more. Some might even deem them crazy for tackling such a massive project, but we think they’re fearless and fabulous. Here, Murphy D. Bishop II, shares one such journey. As the saying goes, “no guts, no glory.”

By Hayley Hill Photos Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com

For many home enthusiasts, the obsession starts young. No exception, Murphy recalls, “As a small child, my parents and I would float down Government Street, A.K.A. ‘Millionaires Row,’ back in the day, in our larger-than-life Caprice Classic. Inspired by hit shows “Dallas”, “Dynasty” and “Falcon Crest,” I would look at the stately homes and dream of what they looked like inside, and if a movie star or oilman owned them. My child’s mind created a fantasy of what the world behind those doors was like, and I loved it. And, 1410 Government Street held a deep allure. It was hidden behind giant azaleas and guarded by a locked gate that sat firmly on the large grounds. I would peer around the azaleas and look at the stately columns and dream of Crystal Carrington emerging from the front door.”

 All grown-up, Murphy was presented with an opportunity he couldn’t have fathomed as a child. “When the home came on the market, my realtor and I quickly toured the home. My offer was accepted, and within 2 hours the home I once dreamed of was now mine! Neither a movie star or oilman, I would now know what was truly behind those gates,” he beams.

 A self-professed serial entrepreneur, now with 13 local rental properties, Murphy tells us, “I am the cofounder and CEO of The Better Skin Co., a global skincare brand known for multipurpose skincare. And, I am always looking for my next venture. Prior to moving back to Mobile, I had remodeled a few homes in Seattle and was obsessed with the transformation that could happen. I’ve always loved Mobile’s architecture and history, so I decided that restoration and renovation would be my next venture when I returned. As I began purchasing and renovating historic properties for both short- and long-term renting, I was hooked!”

 A trendsetter in his own right, Murphy was born and raised in Grand Bay and then spent 30 years as a leader in the beauty industry in Los Angeles, and with stints in Chicago, Seattle, D.C., Nashville, and Atlanta. On his return to Mobile in 2019, he shares, “I saw a city experiencing a great transformation. While I was away, Mobile began an evolution that is still in progress. The city has become Alabama’s most progressive city, bursting at the seams with growth in the business, housing, and innovation sectors. Top tier food, craft cocktails, and specialty coffee houses are pouring into the city, which is evidence that we are growing and going places. I want to be part of this evolution before I miss out!”

 Chances are that most are familiar with Murphy’s latest real estate renovation project that is already available for short-term bookings. With big plans to transform the estate into a future private social club we’ll all want to join; Murphy’s vision is nothing short of exciting.

 To set the vibe and visual tone of his latest premiere property, The Driskell, Murphy shares, “Think of relaxing in a Slim Aarons print in a southern mansion.” Wildly applauding this reference and effort, it’s important for any chic-life-seeker to know about Slim Aarons. An iconic American photographer, Slim’s photography epitomized the glamour, charisma, and celebrity of the late 1950’s. Regarding what he sought to capture in his portraits, Slim said, “Attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places.” Known for chronicling the leisure pursuits of the rich and famous in stunning environments, letting the natural beauty of his subjects become his focal point alongside all the chic design elements of that time period, Slim won the trust of those he photographed. In turn, he was allowed to shoot some of the most intimate and candid portraiture of the 20th century. We recommend a Google search if you’re not familiar.

 Catching us up to where it is today, Murphy tells us, “The Driskell is deep into the restoration. About 75% of the interior has been restored and the grounds are in progress. The Betty at The Driskell, Government Street’s largest saltwater pool, is flowing and will soon be ready for visitors. The Driskell is modeled after the exclusive Shoreditch House London, a SOHO House property that is a private social club consisting of a restaurant, bar, pool, and plenty of space to commune with friends, family and colleagues.”

 With similar plans, Murphy adds, “The Driskell will eventually also be membership based and members will have an all-access pass to the property and the first option for private events on the grounds. The Driskell will cater to the creative class of Mobile that seek something modern and luxurious. A 21 and over private club, membership will be limited to provide optimum service to each guest. It will offer a relaxed vibe that allows guests to come in for a bite or cocktail, sit and socialize, or take a dip at their own mid-town retreat.”

 As for now? “Currently the property is hosting guests in our luxury rentals. We have 3 suites to accommodate 8 to 12 guests, each with an opulent theme. The Royal Suite is 1200 square feet of indulgence! It boasts two king beds, a living room, and exclusive use of the large front balcony. One room overlooks the giant oaks on Government Street and the other overlooks The Betty, our saltwater pool. The Safari Suite is modeled after the five-star resorts in Tanzania, complete with king bed and a clawfoot tub for relaxing. The Palm Beach Suite was inspired by the luxurious art deco movement found in Palm Beach, and boasts a queen bed and our largest clawfoot tub. All suites have a Nespresso coffee bar, snacks, refrigerator, microwave,and other essentials. We can even host select private events. The entire property has an artsy, Instagram-worthy vibe!” he shares.  

 With an eye for design and a keen ability to blend the old and new, The Driskell is cleverly adorned with a curation of found objects—many from Murphy’s travels around the world. “Modern furniture from Haute House Couture, Jonathan Adler, Michael Aram, and Jardins en Fleur as well as antiques from Mobile and New Orleans fill the home,” he explains.

 Sitting on 1.1 acres, the property has ample parking and is convenient to all things downtown and midtown making it a stellar rental option during Mardi Gras. “Of course, the holiday season at The Driskell is always magical and summers by the pool are a staycation dream!” Murphy adds. With plans to build a restaurant and bar, a bespoke fitness center, and so much more, Murphy concludes with, “The Driskell will be about exclusivity without sacrificing inclusivity. Beauty will abound in all aspects of the experience from the person greeting you to the glass you sip from. Think of a vacation at the Four Seasons Bali except you’re in midtown Mobile.”

The Driskell | 1410 Government Street Mobile, AL 36604 | TheDriskell.com | @thedriskellmobile

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