As they say in the classics, bigger ain’t always better, and this is especially true when it comes to hotel rooms. Sure, commodious chambers are nice, but we’d take style over square-footage any day. So if you’re flying solo, or more about hitting the streets than the sheets, consider these pint-sized pads that pack serious design punch.
Le Bellechasse, Paris
The Discovery digs at this dainty dollhouse may be très petit, but couturier extraordinaire-turned-interiors doyen Christian Lacroix has ensured each 15sqm boudoir is stuffed with enough haute flourishes to swathe Versaille… well, almost. Think butterfly wallpaper, mirrored bed heads and dabs of antique furny. 8 Rue de Bellechasse, 7th, lebellechasse.com
Michelberger Hotel, Berlin
You’ll sure have a story to tell after staying in the Clever tome-lined book nook at Friedrichshain’s Michelberger Hotel. Other themed mini-suites at this urbane playpen include a woodsy Chalet and the French-glam Golden One. Warschauer Str. 39-40, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, michelbergerhotel.com
Shoreditch Rooms, London
The Small + is actually the largest lodging at Soho House’s Shoreditch quarters – hard to believe given these sleepers are just 15sqm – but, on top of access to all the swank club facilities, they boast private balconies with sweeping city views. Ebor St, Shoreditch, shoreditchhouse.com
Ace Hotel, Los Angeles
Small by name, but in our opinion selling itself a little, ahem, short, these Ace LA pads pack in queen-size beds, roomy showers stocked with Rudy’s toiletries, raw concrete walls and, in some cases, acoustic Martin Guitars. Not that you’ll be spending much time shut up in your room when there’s the sumptuous Spanish Gothic theatre, Upstairs tippler and wow rooftop pool to be discovered. 929 S Broadway, Downtown, acehotel.com
The Hoxton, Amsterdam
The Cosy Rooms at this chic n’ sleek canal house are just that with quaint wood panelling or vaulted ceilings, chrome fixtures and subway-tiled bathrooms. Feeling super slim? Get a waif-ish as Kate, single-bed Shoebox room. Hey, at least they’re honest! Herengracht 255, thehoxton.com
Last updated 10 May 2023
