Stylotel

Love it or hate it, the three-star Stylotel really stands out in London's budget accommodation scene. Its design is more reminiscent of a spaceship than a hotel, but it’s worth a try if you’ve tired of floral bedspreads and traditional B&Bs. An added selling point is its central location near Paddington station.

Everything at the Stylotel is, well, stylized—from the undulating silver railings in the stairwells to the chrome-and-mint-green reception area. The “Stylolounge,” located just off the lobby, is lined with plump royal-blue couches. It’s also got a rounded bar, a few flat-screen TVs and complimentary coffee and tea available throughout the day.

Hardwood flooring and plain white bedding are the most normal things you’ll find in the Stylotel’s 39 good-sized guest rooms. Walls are covered with aluminum panels, beds have electric-blue upholstered headboards and bedside tables are metallic light-boxes.

A flat-screen TV hangs from the metal studded walls in each room, and other room amenities include a coffee/tea maker, fan, telephone, safe and soundproof windows. ”Stylorooms” come in a range of configurations, from rooms with one single bed to rooms that sleep up to four in either two double beds or one double bed and two single bunks.

The private bathrooms are so tiny we thought it an incredible feat of architectural engineering that a shower, navy blue sink, and toilet all fit inside the cylindrical-shaped room. Nonetheless, they are clean and well maintained, if a little too “cozy.” Toiletries and a hairdryer are provided.

Those looking for more space might opt for a “Stylosuite.” These sleep two to four people in a setting that is sleeker and slightly less “unique” than the regular guest rooms. Think dark hardwood floors, chrome kitchenettes, glass tables and roomier bathrooms. The suites are located just across the road above the Sylotel's pub, the Sussex Arms.

The Sussex Arms, located on the ground floor of the Stylosuites (across the street from the hotel), is a swank restaurant and bar that melds cool contemporary with glam vintage. Think textured wallpaper, pretty chandeliers, and heavy wooden tables. There’s a big-screen TV for sporting events and outdoor seating for warmer days.

Breakfast at the Stylotel is included, but those staying in the suites will have to pay an additional fee for breakfast. Either way, it’s served in a space-age basement breakfast room, decked out with yellow and blue walls, green tables, and angular chairs. All other meals can be purchased for a discount at the Sussex Arms.

Wi-Fi is available for free, and there's a computer station in the lobby. Note that both the Stylotel and the Suites have a lot of steep stairs and warren-like corridors—there is an elevator in the Stylotel but not in the Suites.

The Stylotel boasts an enviable location within walking distance of Hyde Park and the Oxford Street shopping mecca. It’s also easily placed for hopping on the bus or tube to explore farther afield.