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Bushnell

240 Bushnell San Antonio, TX 78212 210-733-7705 www.bushnellsa.com

Nestled in the heart of Monte Vista, the Bushnell emerges from a lush park, neatly hidden from the bustle of the nearby city. More than just removed from the hurried stores and rush-hour traffic, the Bushnell seems removed from time itself. Built in 1926, a time of celebration and newness of life, the Bushnell has managed to retain that simpler time within its walls. More than nostalgia, the past almost seems present here.

"It really does make you feel like you're stepping back in time to the mid-20s," said Andrew Johnson, Bushnell manager. "The feeling is still here, like a great big time machine."

The sensation of gilt quality and elegance is found in every detail in the building, from the original elevators to the authentic black and white checkered marble floors to the breath-taking rooftop terrace.

The terrace, designed and built just two years ago, was created when owner Richard Clark discovered a rooftop terrace in Europe. "I had the idea for doing it in Florence, Italy. They had a wonderful rooftop terrace because of the view," said Clark. Since the view that the Bushnell offers - the gardens of the Landa Library to the north, Trinity University to the East, and downtown San Antonio to the south - were the finest in the city, Clark decided he would create a terrace to rival any in the country.

"It was designed specifically for its aesthetic beauty," said Johnson. Created in a Mediterranean style, Clark wanted it to look like a "lofty Spanish palace." "It really provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the city," Johnson said.

And the view is stunning. The seven-story building, built long before any of its neighbors, gives guests a spectacular 15-mile view over the city. But the rooftop terrace itself is worth giving a look. Separated into three distinct areas, the terrace has an elevated, covered center section that accommodates dinner tables and musicians. Lined with sparkling lights and heating lamps and a state-of-the-art sound system, the terrace is ideal for weddings.

Long beds of snapdragons, pansies and rosemary line the terrace, underscoring the European elegance that the stone arches and walls suggest. The space is also completely self-sufficient: a caterer's kitchen and two sets of bathrooms are provided, so that guests and vendors need not leave the terrace.

But there is a good reason for venturing away from the rooftop. Just below is the building's penthouse, a 2,000-square foot apartment with polished hardwood floors, gleaming black tile fireplaces and authentic gilt-framed artwork on the walls. The penthouse, which is included in the rental of the terrace, is a great place for guests to retire for private conversation and for the bride and groom to use as a honeymoon suite. Complete with an enormous Jacuzzi tub and two balconies, many couples choose to spend their first night in the penthouse. Not only do they not have to leave the reception location, but they're welcome to stay as long as they like, said Johnson. Renting the terrace provides the bride and groom with use of the facility for 24 hours.

Ultimately, the elegant, understated atmosphere is what most couples love the most, Johnson said. "It's something you'll remember for years to come."

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