If you’re wondering where to stay in Fairhope, Alabama, your search ends here. Nestled along Mobile Bay, just a short drive from downtown, this family home effortlessly blends character with exquisite design. Described by its owners as “European elegance with coastal calm,” it’s the perfect SoulGrown Stay—a bay house full of soul, charm, and its own story.

Owners Shawn and Laura Dean lived in Fairhope in the early 2000s, even welcoming their first child there. After moving away, Fairhope was always a place they dreamed of coming back to. Now with a family much larger in number and generations, the Deans sought out the perfect place to accommodate big family gatherings.

Laura decided to take on the home’s design herself. As someone who has traveled the world, she incorporates her experiences and personal collections into the house, creating a unique experience rather than a typical rental.

Fitting in perfectly to Fairhope’s artistic and eclectic scene, but still with homage to their Southern roots, the home features art, rugs, copper pots, and textiles from Greece, France, and England. One statement piece guests will notice upon entering the living area is the dining chairs, which were locally sourced European antiques from Aubergines.

Laura’s vision for Still Water blends together the warmth of Southern hospitality with the understated elegance of European charm. Every detail feels intentional—thoughtfully curated yet entirely livable. The result is a home that welcomes guests with comfort and charm while quietly impressing through craftsmanship and care.

“I wanted it to have a different feel than most new construction houses on the Eastern Shore,” Laura explains. “I wanted it to feel collected, cozy, and European-inspired.”

That vision comes to life in layered textures, natural tones, and an effortless flow between rooms. It’s a home that feels both refined and relaxed where families can gather on the wide front porch or linger over morning coffee as sunlight pours through arched windows. The setting captures the best of Fairhope: easy proximity to the town’s vibrant center of restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques, while maintaining the calm of a coastal retreat.

Still Water stands out as a rare balance between aesthetic aspiration and everyday functionality. It is a space equally suited to design enthusiasts and young families alike. But beyond its architecture and interiors, it’s the Deans’ genuine warmth and heart for hosting that truly define the experience. In every sense, Still Water embodies the essence of a “SoulGrown Stay.”

“We dream of hosting our own big family holidays at the house and want to share it with others to do the same. We envision lots of stays from bridal party groups to intimate celebrations.”