"How did it strike you on arrival?Call your mother, the aliens have landed in Robertson Quay. This new hotel by Philippe Starck – king of boutique hotels in the 90s – brings to the table his signature style, now aimed at tech-savvy millennials. The glass-covered building feels as futuristic inside as it appears outside, with red LED screens and gleaming silver high stools and tables. Starck’s love of the baroque in the fun form of patterned tiles and the odd chandelier is also present, and there’s a bit of the old-school here too in the form of books tacked to table lamps in the lobby and restaurant. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Millennials and tech addicts. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.My attic-ceilinged Alcove Cosy Room (62-square-feet) resembled a mini cottage from the future, with cute details like a charming arched mirrored entryway and buttoned-leather headboard. Space was tight between the work desk and the bed and there was little room for much else though – not one for those with a lot of luggage. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Comfy bed but the pillows were a rather odd square size. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?No mini-bar, though there is a fridge if you need it. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The bathroom was a squeeze but had a rain shower and environmentally friendly sensor-activated lighting. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Decent speed and free. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The breakfast restaurant has a robot that will cook your eggs. There’s also a rooftop pool with loungers and a small gym. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?Heartbreaking: Service can be unfriendly and inattentive. Memorable: Having a robot cook your eggs for you. Bottom line: worth it, and why?It's the best-priced option in a hip neighborhood surrounded by good restaurants and fancy condos, and minutes from all the central attractions." - Audrey Phoon
