There's nothing like finding the perfect escape in your home city. A space where you can unlock your own secret hideaway, without compromising on the luxuries and comforts you hold close – a home away from home, if you will. But uncovering the perfect staycation is not always as simple as it might seem, and it's the sweetest, most thoughtful details that truly leave an impact in the end. With the madness of Afterpay Australian Fashion Week this month, it felt like the perfect opportunity to continue my search for Sydney's best staycation, and after spending a week at Paddington's Oxford House – (between crazy dashes to the monolith that is Carriageworks) – it's undoubtedly clear why the boutique hotel has quickly become one of the city's most in-demand destinations.
Nestled unassumingly on Sydney's bustling Oxford Street, Oxford House (or OH! as it is affectionately branded), is the suburbs first fully-refurbished lifestyle hotel. Boasting just 56 luxury rooms and suites, the hotel blends functional, considered design with an intrigue for contemporary curiosity. The result is an interior that not only perpetuates the comfort and aesthetic of an inner-city sanctuary, but follows through with carefully curated art pieces throughout the property crafted by some of the country's most talented creatives. Including a piece by RUSSH's very own Kitty Callaghan, might I add.
Truthfully, Oxford House became a sanctuary of sorts for me during the week. The hotel's Art Suite was the ultimate safe space for me to retreat to between shows and meetings, boasting an additional lounge room that I converted into both a temporary office and open closet – versatility, right? If like me, you love nothing more than a hotel robe, the plush Double Rainbouu robes in each room were perfect for slipping into, while the suite of Grown Alchemist bath amenities were a calming way to start and end each day.
Around day three, the complementary lip-shaped chocolates and martini went down a treat, and when the schedule allowed for it, heading down to the hotel's Palm Spring's inspired pool bar for a bite to eat in the autumn sunshine was the perfect source of regeneration. If you happen to be staying over the weekend, a line-up of Sydney’s most exciting DJs take over the pool terrace (which, I will sadly have to enjoy another time), making it a great spot for a secluded sundowner, or for hosting a major event or celebration.
Whether you visit Oxford House for work or play, the hotel's central location makes it impossibly easy to catch up with friends. Make a booking downstairs at the restaurant which overlooks the lively scene of Oxford Street, or take a walk through the neighbourhood to discover the endless cafes, restaurants and pubs on offer.
When the week eventually came to an end, I realised I would quickly do it all again if it meant waking up in one of Oxford House's light-bathed rooms. The place for those in the know, explore your next stay at Oxford House's website now.
