f6 Design Hotel

Tucked away on a sunny residential street—just blocks from the eateries and bars in bustling Paquis and in close proximity to the UN—the four-year-old f6 Design Hotel (formerly known as the Hotel Quality) offers a stylish respite from bureaucrat-filled Geneva. Those lucky enough to take advantage of its cheap weekend rates will find this designer three-star hotel a great place to enjoy (quasi-)designer furniture without frills.

Decked out in tangerine and lime green, the hotel’s 40 guest rooms strike the right balance of sleek (think shiny dressers and minimalist-chic desks) and comfy (thick mattresses and fluffy white comforters). And warm wooden ceilings offset the chill that sometimes goes along with designer hotels. All rooms have standard amenities, including a television, coffee/tea facilities, minibar and phone. A few rooms also have kitchenettes, and balconies are also available (ask ahead for both).

The small bathrooms, however, pale in comparison. They’re spic-and-span, but surprisingly basic, and the tiny showers, surrounded by flimsy plastic doors, are disappointing after such modern, attractive rooms.

Happily, the bright, funky vibe continues in the common areas. The TV room, where complimentary coffee and tea are available throughout the day, is dotted with plexiglass stools and square block chairs. Other new additions, including a gym and sauna, were just receiving their finishing touches upon our last visit.

In addition to free Wi-Fi throughout, the f6 offers a free Internet station. Breakfast, available for a whopping CHF19 extra, is best avoided in favor of one of the nearby eateries in Paquis. The tiny reception area is only open until 11p.m., although late arrivals can be arranged (ask ahead).