In the world of celebrity homes, few have captured the imagination and intrigue quite like Graceland, the iconic Memphis mansion of rock 'n' roll legend Elvis Presley. Although much has been revealed about the sprawling estate, a veil of mystery remains over the seldom-seen upstairs, particularly who decorated this private sanctuary. This post delves deep into the mystery of who actually decorated Graceland's upstairs, providing a glimpse into the personal and secretive world of Elvis and his closest relationships.
Elvis Presley’s Vision for Graceland
Elvis Presley bought Graceland in 1957 for $102,500, seeking privacy and space away from the constant public eye. His vision for the estate was influenced by his childhood memories, the Southern culture, and the opulent lifestyle his fame afforded him:
- Southern Comfort: Reflecting the home decor style prevalent in the South during the mid-20th century.
- Eclectic Taste: Elvis had a penchant for combining various decor styles, from classic to contemporary.
- Personal Touches: He wanted Graceland to be a reflection of his personality, featuring unique pieces that he collected during his travels or received as gifts.
🗒️ Note: Elvis’s preferences significantly influenced the decor, showcasing his larger-than-life personality and his love for all things luxurious and extravagant.
Influence of Priscilla Presley
Elvis married Priscilla Beaulieu in 1967, and her influence on Graceland’s decor became more evident. Priscilla, having lived in Germany during her youth, brought a touch of European sophistication to the American mansion:
- European Aesthetics: She infused elements like chandeliers, antique furniture, and ornate mirrors, blending with Graceland’s existing decor.
- Personal Space: She was particularly involved in decorating the upstairs areas that became their private retreat.
- Harmony: She harmonized Elvis’s eclectic taste with her own, creating a space that felt both personal and lavish.
🗒️ Note: Priscilla’s involvement often led to a softer, more refined touch in comparison to the downstairs public areas.
The Role of Key Decorators
Although Elvis and Priscilla played significant roles, other decorators contributed to the unique atmosphere of Graceland’s upstairs:
- Billie Hughes: Graceland’s long-time housekeeper, who had insights into Elvis’s and Priscilla’s preferences, often advised on decor choices.
- LaVerne Tripplett: Known as Elvis’s personal designer, she was responsible for sourcing unique items and overseeing decor projects.
- Professionals: Elvis occasionally enlisted professional designers for special rooms or projects, though these were mostly for the public areas downstairs.
The Mysterious Upstairs
Elvis’s decision to keep the upstairs private has fostered an aura of mystery around this space:
- Inner Sanctuary: The master bedroom, Lisa Marie’s bedroom, and the upstairs lounge were places for Elvis to relax and escape the pressures of fame.
- Posthumous Privacy: Following Elvis’s death in 1977, Graceland’s upstairs has remained locked and off-limits to the public, preserving its untouched condition.
🗒️ Note: The choice to keep the upstairs private after Elvis’s passing has further fueled public curiosity and added to the legend of Graceland.
Key Features of Graceland’s Upstairs
Though not fully revealed, some details about the decor and design of Graceland’s upstairs have emerged over the years:
| Room | Description |
|---|---|
| Master Bedroom | Known for its large bed, mirrored ceiling, and private bathroom with a gold-plated sink. The decor reflects Elvis’s personality with heavy draperies, dark wood paneling, and ornate lamps. |
| Lisa Marie’s Room | Pink and white decor, with a canopy bed and a personalized bathroom, showcasing a child’s playfulness combined with luxury. |
| Upstairs Lounge | Re-created with personal items from Elvis, like his favorite chair, guitars, and family photos. This was one of his favorite spots to watch TV or relax with friends. |
Legacy and Preservation Efforts
The preservation of Graceland, including the upstairs, has become a priority for the Presley estate:
- Authenticity: The effort is to keep Graceland as Elvis left it, preserving the historical integrity of the home.
- Educational Value: By keeping the upstairs off-limits, the estate promotes curiosity and allows visitors to engage with Elvis’s life story through the accessible areas.
- Conservation: The limited access helps in conserving the decor, preventing wear and tear from public tours.
In conclusion, the question of who decorated Graceland's upstairs reveals a fascinating blend of Elvis's vision, Priscilla's influence, and the expertise of several key decorators. This upstairs sanctuary, filled with personal memories and opulence, continues to captivate fans worldwide, reminding us of the humanity behind the legend. The preservation efforts not only honor Elvis's legacy but also offer a glimpse into his private world, making Graceland not just a home but a living testament to the King's life and style.
Who had the most significant influence on Graceland’s decor?
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Elvis Presley’s personal taste had the most significant influence, with Priscilla Presley adding a touch of European sophistication. The input from decorators like Billie Hughes and LaVerne Tripplett also played an important role, particularly in the more private upstairs areas.
Why is the upstairs of Graceland off-limits to visitors?
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Elvis’s family decided to keep the upstairs private after his death to honor his wishes for privacy. It also serves as a way to preserve the authenticity and sanctity of his personal space.
Are there any plans to open the upstairs to the public in the future?
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As of now, there are no plans to open the upstairs to the public. The intention is to keep it as a private and untouched part of Elvis’s legacy.
How does the upstairs decor compare to the rest of Graceland?
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The upstairs is more personalized, reflecting Elvis’s private tastes, while the public areas of Graceland are designed to entertain and reflect his larger-than-life public persona.
What are some unique decor items mentioned about Graceland’s upstairs?
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Unique items include a gold-plated sink, a mirrored ceiling in the master bedroom, ornate lamps, a canopy bed in Lisa Marie’s room, and personal items like guitars and family photos in the upstairs lounge.
