Room Mate Alicia, Plaza de Santa Ana, Madrid - Explore & Book

"The quirky philosophy of Room Mate is to infuse their hotels with the character of an imaginary personality. Here you meet the sophisticated Alicia, whose love of the ‘better things in life’ is reflected in every corner of this lofty building. It's a former woollens factory, once the only industrial building in central Madrid, now metamorphosed by interior design supremo Pascual Ortega. Stepping into the reception from leafy Plaza de Santa Ana, through sliding glass doors flanked by aluminium panels, you are greeted by a svelte, nude video figure that walks hypnotically towards you. Next you notice metallic torso sculptures, then an extraordinary stainless-steel staircase with flowing Art-Nouveau tendrils that point the way to your room. Ortega was given free rein and an open cheque book to create 34 spaces to sleep that leave the mundane a long way behind. The 2 Duplex Suites, complete with plunge pools and terraces overlooking the hip square (packed with bars and restaurants) just shout 'special celebration for 2'. Highs It's at the epicentre of young, bohemian Madrid, surrounded by the great bars and restaurants of the Las Letras district The city's main attractions (Thyssen museum, Reina Sofia museum, The Prado and Retiro Park) are all a stone's throw away The unique building looks great from within and without. At night the elegant glass-fronted upper storeys are lit in changing colours, adding a unique visual element Staff treat you as they would a friend, and are chosen according to how easily they slot into the Room Mate ‘way of being’ Every corner of the hotel is filled with weird and wonderful art; this is as far from chain-hotel standards as you can get Lows Plaza Santa Ana is undergoing construction work until 2026. The hotel is running as usual, but there may be some noise in the day, and you'll need to venture a little further for food and nightlife Bathrooms are either in-room or without doors, with glass showers; perhaps a hotel for couples rather than friends (though families are welcome, too) This part of Madrid rocks on into the early hours, and there’s usually some noise down in the square. Bring ear plugs if you’re a light sleeper There's no communal outdoor space The breakfast gets mixed feedback, but we have always enjoyed it" - Guy Hunter Watts