Dua Miami, Autograph Collection

SLS Brickell

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? Located in the relatively staid-for-Miami Financial District, SLS Brickell Hotel & Residence stands out thanks to multi-colored stripes that hang down the exterior. The main building looks like a birthday present waiting to be unwrapped; others are less vibrant but still distinctive, with balconies and a whimsical aesthetic. What's the backstory? The SLS brand has popped in several luxury markets now, including Las Vegas, Beverly Hills, and The Bahamas, and all of their properties mix playfulness with serious design cred; here, in the form of Philippe Starck interiors. Tell us all about the rooms. Any tips on what to book? Our Superior King had a large, comfy bed, a small table, and a mini sofa, all housed within Starck's signature sleek, white lines. Cushions and green vases provided some nice pops of color, and oversize artworks and full-length framed mirrors rested casually against the walls. Slate carpets contrasted with the whites, and the bathroom was a symphony of polished chrome and white tiles. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? The Wi-Fi was excellent, and comes as part of the hotel’s $25-per-day facility fee. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? The Altitude Pool Deck does sandwiches, small plates, and cocktails, with treats such as gazpacho and béchamel chicken fritters. The tribal patterns and earth tones of the Saam Lounge create something of a safari-chic look, with large, colorful armchairs and sofas providing a cozy place for world travelers to enjoy a cocktail. Finally, Fi’lia is an Italian restaurant with the familiarity of classic dishes as well as more innovative offerings such as truffle pizza and fried (yes, fried) lasagna. What type of travelers will you find here? The Starck name definitely attracts a design-conscious crowd; high-end fashion labels and chic luggage make a strong appearance in the lobby. The guests skew young, but they're eager to remove themselves from the clamor of the more party-focused parts of town. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in? Although it’s no South Beach, the Financial District is beginning to loosen its collar somewhat, and hotels such as this add to the appeal of staying in the area. The Brickell City Center mall close by is a big draw, and it’s only 20 minutes or so to Wynwood and the Design District. Any other hotel features worth noting? The rooftop pool area is noteworthy, framed by oversized plant pots and looked over by a giant, silver duck sculpture. There’s also the Ciel Spa. Another nice touch is the use of the house Lincoln town car, which will drop you off anywhere within three miles for free, pending availability. Bottom line: Worth it? Fans of design will obviously revel in the Starck-influenced rooms and public spaces, and the artwork and decor suggest that a reassuring amount of thought has gone into the interiors. The hotel definitely exudes a sense of character, and nothing about it is cookie-cutter or banal." - Paul Oswell