My uber driver cautiously drives up the narrow laneway in Sydney's inner city suburb of Surry Hills unsure where exactly he's taking me, as there are no discernable signs that a hip hotel is lurking in the back streets. Then suddenly the impressive structure looms large, a stunning architectural juxtaposition of glass, tile and bricks creating a soaring structure beautifully blending the old and the new into Sydney's newest hip hideaway.
The 35-room Little Albion Guest House opened in July after 3 years in the making, merging a heritage listed building with new construction and the design largely influenced by the 1920s and 1970s style in one perfect package.
I'm intrigued as to what defines Little Albion as a guesthouse rather than a boutique hotel? What unfolds is warm, personalised service which does feel more European guesthouse or pensione rather than impersonal hotel.
Location
Surry Hills is a gritty, creative and foodie filled enclave on the fringe of Sydney's CBD. It's home to fashion designers, creative agencies, media types and tech start-ups and is now well and truly gentrified making it one of Sydney's most sought after suburbs for property, but has been largely lacking in quality accommodation.
Now, alongside the coolest restaurants, small bars and boutiques Sydney has to offer you can stay in style and luxury at Little Albion Guest House. While the Little Albion Guest House hosts prefer to chat with their guests (you won't find a compendium in the room, but a simple list of House Rules) there is a cute little pocket size neighbourhood guide which will point you in the right direction for the best coffee, culture and curated tips for making the most of your Sydney stay.
The Room
Little Albion Guest House offers a range of room types from the compact 'crash pad' to the luxurious 'Big Albion' designer suite with four-poster bed. We check in to a 'Classic' room with high ceilings, double-glazed windows overlooking Albion Street, heritage fireplace and art deco style.
The cloud-like King Bed promises a good night sleep and the room is filled with thoughtful touches like fresh flowers, water jug which was refreshed daily, T2 tea, delicious Whisk & Pin biscuits and soft robes from The Cotton Company and slippers.
The beautiful bathroom features stunning Moroccan tiles, marble washstands and brass-trimmed mirror, huge rain shower, Molton Brown amenities and a freestanding bath complete with relaxation salts. After a day walking Sydney city and strolling back from Central Station, it's a pleasure to return to the luxurious bathroom for a relaxing soak.
Facilities
There are plenty of quiet corners at Little Albion Guest House to mix and mingle with guests or peacefully retreat to read a book. There's a sunken lounge in the lobby area opening out to a sunny courtyard filled with plants. The petite rooftop terrace has stunning urban views and chic wrought iron furniture giving it a real Parisian feel.
Downstairs in the lounge you'll find an honour bar with a brilliant selection of craft beer, wine and even mini bottled cocktails plus lemons & limes and everything you need to fix the perfect drink. Little Albion beautifully caters to the solo traveller too with a good selection of half bottles of wine to be enjoyed in the bar or whisked up to your room.
A light breakfast is included in your stay and served in the little lounge. It's a simple selection of quality cereal, pastries, bread and condiments and I persuade the Italian guests at the next table to try Vegemite (they don't really thank me for that experience)! I actually encounter mostly European guests during my stay, obviously attracted by the pensione style property. While all day coffee is conveniently on offer in the lounge, the pod machine doesn't quite cut it for me and I venture across the road to the buzzing café Reuben Hills for the perfect brew.
The whole concept of Little Albion Guest House has been beautifully executed. The attention to detail and design is to be applauded. Even the corridors are impressive, painted an on-trend millennial pink, with art deco bespoke carpets, custom light fittings and magnificent artworks adorn the walls featuring quirky portraits of infamous Surry Hills personalities.
If you're wondering where to stay in Sydney, then consider Little Albion Guest House if you prefer a boutique hotel, high on style and warm hosts providing an authentic service experience.
Little Albion Guest House
21 Little Albion Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010
Book Little Albion Guest House here.
