It's not called Silicon Beach for nothing, Brighton opens it's first 'smart' hotel..
The world is divided – into those who like the personal touch and those who prefer the flick of a screen and speedy results. One Broad Street is for the latter.
With its reputation for stag and hen weekends shed, Brighton’s bohemian side has morphed into start-up central, much like another city we can think of (albeit on a much smaller scale).
So it’s no surprise that a pebble’s throw from Brighton beach, in the heart of cool Kemptown, the city’s first ‘smart’ hotel has just opened – and it’s a digital dream. Online booking? Check. Door-lock technology (using a keycode that’s sent to you in advance)? Check. In-room tablets? Check. Super-fast wifi? Check.
Set in a six-storey Edwardian townhouse, with 12 suites and rooms, One Broad Street’s easy remote-booking service, does away with the formal front desk and allows you to check in when it’s convenient.
Local info on the hottest bars and best places to eat, shop or party is accessed via in-room tablets.
The rooms are designed with a touch of New York industrial loft-style minimalism and earthy simplicity with exposed brick, reclaimed timber and wool throws.
The en-suite rooms come with the usual hotel extras, such as toiletries and hair dryers, and each has a kitchenette, with microwave, fridge, kettle and coffee maker, so there’s no need for the manic rush to make it for breakfast in the morning. It’s an ideal opportunity to sample to the too-many-to-mention local cafes and restaurants in the nearby boho North Laine area.
There’s an emphasis on biophilic design too (plants, to you and me ), which is a charming touch. Apart from the well-being benefits attached to biophilia, the greenery looks great against the natural materials and is a perfect foil to the technology.
Double rooms from £72, onebroadstreet.co.uk
