From US$195 per night
– The privacy you have at Inchcolm is like nothing we’ve experienced before
– 2mbs ‘Premium’ internet ($10 for 24 hour access) might not be adequate for some business travellers, though it worked fine for an audio Skype call.
The New Inchcolm Hotel in Brisbane’s city centre is where colonial Australian style meets modern comforts. It feels more like a private resident than a boutique hotel. The design and details draw heavily from the past. The New Inchcolm is named for the original residence built in the 1880s, home to Dr Thomson, a Scottish immigrant. In the 1920s the building became a medical practice, and was converted to a hotel in the 1990s. The final refurbishment in November 2014, when the Inchcom became part of M Gallery by Accor, makes use of the original features and style. Silky oak wood paneling and herringbone floors sit beautifully alongside the lush art deco style carpets.
The hotel’s pride and joy is the heritage listed 1928 Otis elevator, which was imported from New York. A new door and buttons have been added but the original weights still help move the lift and the gated door and lift handle are still there to imagine yourself back to a golden era.
Soft jazz and lounge tunes playing in the common areas add to the ambience and I found myself humming along to Nora Jones as I browsed the books in the reception area library.
The rooms are lovely and afford every convenience. The 50 rooms each have a different layout. The large bed was the perfect way to sleep off jet lag (with a solid 11 hours!) and somehow worked out every kink in my back. The desk area and tables and chairs meant that Barry and I both had a place from which to work.
I also loved the large bathroom with a steady supply of big, fluffy towels, full length lighted wall mirror and organic toiletries from Appelles. My skin says thank you! My tastebuds say thank you for the Nespresso Coffee machine and delicious chocolates (my favourite part of the turn down service).
Reception and concierge are at your fingertips, via the iPad mini or the more traditional telephone method. Browsing around the iPad gave me information about the hotel, inspired me on walking tours of Brisbane and ideas of other attractions to visit. The 55 inch flat screen TV will satisfy movie lovers.
We enjoyed the great selection of Scottish whiskys and Australian wines in the bar. The bar and dining area, being accessible directly from the street, is also popular with outside guests. Inchcolm also offers private dining, catering from 10 people to 100.
