Little Albion Guest House

The latest in Sydney's stable of seriously cool boutique hotels is Little Albion Guest House from the Crystalbrook Collection. The jaw-dropping entryway to the property is hidden halfway down an unassuming alleyway in Surry Hills, and it looks more like someone’s epic architectural mansion than the 35-room guesthouse that it is.

The interior is enchanting. It’s a mishmash of 1920s and 1970s influences, which might sound like an odd coupling at first, but trust us—the metallic patterned wallpaper, brass accents and sunken berry-coloured bar lounge go together just swimmingly.

The building itself is part heritage—a nun’s convent built in 1903—and part new extension, with a glass elevator and glass bar and reception space. Beautiful, curious details are everywhere, from the grand staircase to the millennial pink and forest green painted walls, and the original artwork throughout. Covetable custom furniture from local designers features too: Daniel Emma soft chairs in blue and green, and a bench in bright purple from Dowel Jones. There is a little rooftop terrace that peers out across the city lights, and the penthouse suite (“Big Albion”) has a freestanding bath, four-poster bed and gleaming gold tiles.   

Other rooms on offer include fly-in, fly-out “Crash Pads”, “Cosy” and “Classic” rooms, and larger “Master” rooms with baths and plush bay windows. Rather than room service or minibars, you’re encouraged to use the emerald-coloured kitchen as your own.

Little Albion has a 24-hour honour bar system, meaning you can mix your own cocktails, grab a bottle of wine or some snacks, kick back in the bar or head to the secluded rooftop whenever you please. Or, order a specially curated selection of Surry Hills' finest via Uber Eats. It'll be delivered to your room with brass cutlery. A continental breakfast runs from 6.30am until 11am (croissants, GF granola, fresh orange juice and more), and the guest house is pet-friendly, so your four-legged pals can indulge too.   

Basically, Little Albion is your dream house—a warm, whimsical mansion of luxury and local treasures.

Image credit: Bob Barrett