Savvy Sleeping Concept in Warsaw
As we were packing our bags for a long-planned trip to Warsaw we feared having to stay in a run-of-the-mill chain hotel for our first trip in a long time to the Polish capital.
Fortunately, compliments of Air Canada's inflight magazine EnRoute, we stumbled upon a savvy new accommodation concept created by a group of hip, local graphic artists. Artur Rooms has everything we like - great location, reasonable prices, great hospitality. But above and beyond that we admired the thought the creators had put into the space: four distinct rooms, each with their own character; a common space with a long table that allows guests to work and think in peace - or get to know each other. We were also seduced by the small touches - from the funky turntable and record collection and the stash of books to the great wines and beers in the honour bar. And then there is the kitchen - guests are permitted, even encouraged to use it to prepare meals (a sumptuous breakfast is provided).
The shared living space is where we'd spend hours reading, chatting, sipping...
Look around long enough and you will realize that many of the furniture pieces and fixtures are out of the ordinary. This is the result of amazing collaboration among artists, architects, designers and craftsmen. We love it that, as much as possible, Autor provides its guests with locally-made products - right down to the toiletries, beverages and food.
And then there is the manager, Lucy, who made us feel immediately welcome and who won us over with her charm, smarts and knowledge of local eateries, bars and shopping places. Born in Poland, but raised in Canada, she goes above and beyond the call of duty to make guests feel like they are home!
For our first night we settled into Room 1777. With its large bay windows we were treated day and night to great cityscape views; the huge canopy bed is one of the most comfortable we've ever had. The second night, as there were two of us, we settled into Room 1968 - a suite which has a bedroom and washroom and a separate living room with a roll-out double bed - perfect! It can easily accommodate four people.
