The Inchcolm by Ode Hotels, Brisbane

Pros

• Lovely (and playful) details throughout the property will draw your attention, including handmade floral wallpaper, parquet floors, Art Deco details, statement art, and original elements like the ornate elevator.
• Sip a cucumber rose martini as you listen to live jazz on Saturday nights in the beautifully designed bar, known for its martinis.
• Every room is different, though book a Heritage Suite, like the Thompson Suite, for historic details and a freestanding tub.
• Built around a historic building, the hotel retains its Neo-Georgian charm and historical character.
• Complimentary espresso coffee and little snacks are available in the morning.

Cons

• Although a traditional breakfast isn't offered, complimentary espresso and snacks are put out each morning to start your day.
• The only option for in-house dining is from 5 pm on Monday through Saturday, though there is room service that begins a few hours earlier.

Authenticity

The Inchcolm by Ode Hotels is a heritage-listed landmark that got its start in 1880 as a private residence (with consulting rooms) of an army surgeon who named it for the eponymous Scottish isle. The property then acted as a private hospital (1910s-1920s) before undergoing a Neo-Georgian face-lift in 1930 via a Brisbane architect. It was later converted into a hotel in 1998, keeping many original details (like the metal-meshed elevator once used to accommodate stretchers and the entrance's wood paneling). Wonderfully eclectic interiors play on 1930s themes with Art Deco stylings and avant-garde color schemes and textures.

Location

Located on the upper edge of Brisbane's Central Business District, The Inchcolm is perfectly positioned to explore its attractions. Queen Street Mall, a bustling area of shops and eateries, and Central Station, with the Airtrain to the airport, are just a 5-minute walk away. Within 10 minutes on foot, you can reach the historic Brisbane City Hall or the Brisbane River (walk a little more and arrive at the Botanic Gardens). 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The hotel's 50 elegant rooms are each unique, with the original buildings' former medical rooms offering a touch more character than the ones in the newer annex. Yet all put a modern/avant-garde spin on Art Deco details and classic elements, colors, and textures, incorporating vintage pieces (like the Socialites Suite's vinyl record player). You'll find patterned wall-to-wall carpet, tall ceilings, custom furniture and fixtures, and statement art, some housing black-and-white portraits with colorful text or image overlay. Rooms offer city views, and bathrooms are chic, outfitted with plush robes and slippers, some with soaking tubs. For floor-to-ceiling vistas, upgrade to the split-level City View Loft Suite on the top floor.

Amenities

The Inchcolm stands out with its sophisticated pre-war-themed martini bar, styled as a dimly-lit Parisian haunt, complete with bistro tables, handmade floral wallpaper, and parquet floors. Live jazz plays on Saturday nights, and a curated drinks menu "pays tribute to a bygone era when cocktails were clinically endorsed" attracts local guests. A French-heavy (three-martini) dinner menu is served daily from 5 pm to 9 pm, except on Sundays (bar snacks only). Guests can also take advantage of a late-night in-room snack menu (toasties and charcuterie) and complimentary espresso coffees and snacks in the morning.

Family-Friendliness

While The Inchcolm is (small) dog-friendly and welcomes families, it doesn't specifically cater to parents with little ones in tow. The focus is more on providing a sophisticated and indulgent experience for adults, though you can request a cot.