A Cherry on Top of Main Street
Guerneville Bank Club
Upon moving to Guerneville, there was one building that immediately caught my eye. Nestled right on Main Street, The Guerneville Bank Club carries a quiet but powerful presence in town. Its Beaux Arts detailing felt like an instant connection to my heart. Built in 1921, the building originally served as the local bank and was designed by architect Carl I. Warnecke. After sitting vacant for nearly 30 years, it was thoughtfully restored and reimagined into a vibrant collective retail and gallery space.
The name Bank Club was inspired by a nearby bar and an old ashtray found during the renovation—a nod to its layered past. Thanks to the vision of Crista Luedtke (owner of boon hotel + spa & many more incredible local businesses) and building owner Bob Pullum, the space has been brought back to life with warmth, artistry, and community support.
On a sunny Saturday, Miles and I made our way into town, the scent of spring blooms lingering in the air. Our first stop: Nimble & Finn’s, an ice cream shop that had just celebrated its 10-year anniversary. Inside the Bank Club, you’re immediately greeted by a hand-painted mural and the sweet invitation to sample some of the best small-batch ice cream around. I was drawn to “Strawberry Fields,” and Miles, true to form, went for “Birthday Cake,” because he never passes up sprinkles. The mural (New Bohemia Designs), was designed by Jessica Hische, drawing inspiration from the original decals on the bank’s safe.
Tucked in the back is the original bank vault, now cleverly transformed into a vintage-inspired photo booth, and a miniature museum of river town artifacts. Thanks to the Russian River Historical Society and Russian River historian John C. Schubert, it features photos and stories about Guerneville and neighboring towns.
I found myself in awe, soaking in the history of decades past. With the sun streaming through the soaring windows and nostalgia in the air, time seemed to slow down into a moment of calm.
Another favorite discovery inside the Bank Club was the Guerneville Wine Collective, a jewel box gem of a wine shop. Karla, one of the owners, warmly welcomed us and shared her passion for the space that she and her husband Ben have thoughtfully curated. I left with a local Sauvignon Blanc that was crisp, refreshing, and just right for the day.
We finished our afternoon at the Guerneville Block Party, where the community gathered in support of local businesses affected by ongoing road construction. The town may be small, but the community is mighty - creative, resilient, and deeply connected.
As spring shifts into summer, Miles and I look forward to many more afternoons like this. Slow strolls through town. Ice cream that cools and comforts. And neighbors who make us feel right at home.
Lovingly,
– Michelle
Pieces from The Spring POP! Collection:
Photos: "Cherries Jubilee" by Benjamin Miles | Camera: FujiFilm X100V