Having enjoyed a seriously luxurious stay at Old Town Chambers some time ago, I was pleased to accept an invitation to visit Merchiston Residence, Edinburgh, managed by the same Lateral City Apartments team.
Apartment stays in cities seem, still, to be a growing trend within each market sector, from the corporate market, to couples, weekend breaks, long-term lets and family holidays; it seems everyone is enjoying a ‘home from home’ break.
Serviced Apartments are however, not actually a ‘home from home’, as many continue to refer to them. Super luxurious, minimum effort, everything you could wish for at hand, and on the doorstep of some of the city’s most exclusive areas and desired eateries; they are SO much more.
I am delighted that this particular accommodation sector continues to grow in popularity, as serviced apartments are, in short, a superbly comfortable and inviting way to enjoy your own, private space with all the trappings of a luxurious hotel.
Merchiston Residence is no different. A stunning Victorian property which stands out, even in the row of fabulously imposing buildings of leafy Merchiston Avenue, a highly sought after and exclusive address in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Parking is an unexpected bonus in a city location; but with some private space to the side of the property and plentiful on street parking (free at weekends), there is more than enough provision for the eight residences within the Merchiston building.
A smooth, advance, digital check-in process, ensures that each guest arrives with an emailed four digit code to access both the main door and their private apartment. No need for keys, no lengthy form filling at reception, nor any requirement for any interaction; unless required from the 24 hour concierge service; just an inviting welcome ‘home’ to an entrance hallway filled with the aroma of fresh flowers and a bright carpeted stairway leading to all three levels – perfect!
The automated theme is continued within each of the luxurious apartments with zoned lighting and heating all controlled from wall-mounted panels, easing each guest into a homely environment of the high-spec condo type!
My one bedroom apartment was surprisingly bright and demonstrated a great consideration for, and fabulous use of, space; a true reflection of why Lateral City is part of a group, which specializes in transformation projects with an emphasis on regeneration and listed buildings. The Merchiston building warrants flagship property status, not only from the external appearance but the sympathetic attention to period detail within.
The living area and kitchen are invitingly warm with comfortable seating and a breakfast bar, from which, are views over the recognisable city skyline (I was on the top floor). My first port of call however is always the WiFi; again a unique code for each apartment and easy access, fabulous connection and no issues at all – hurrah! I am guessing this is at least one of the reasons Merchiston is so popular with corporates and those visiting the city on business. There is additionally a dedicated space to work, away from the distractions of the Smart TV and tempting selection of movies, in the lounge area.
Clever use of space in all the rooms, ensures that clothes, luggage and other items can be stored away, within beautifully crafted furnishings, out of sight, no matter the length of stay, allowing the internal space to retain its sleek look, for welcoming guests. The fact that the bathroom is not merely an ensuite but an additional room, serves to add to the capacious feel of the property and is a reminder that this is not simply a hotel room but a private suite in an exclusive, residential area.
Access to local restaurants and shops ensures each stay is well catered and the city centre is either a short taxi or bus ride, or a longer, but perfectly manageable walk from Merchiston Avenue. The Kings Theatre, Dominion Cinema, Nonna’s Kitchen and The Canny Man’s bar, again, on the doorstep and perfect haunts for a night out in the Morningside/Bruntsfield area.
One last nod to home living is the ability to wake up and enjoy breakfast in front of the TV, laptop on knee and the ability to get ready for another day at a leisurely pace. Again, this must offer a strong pull for families who can sit and plan their day ahead, from studying the wealth of in-apartment information on Edinburgh, whilst watching movies and enjoying uninterrupted WiFi – multi-tasking at its best!
So, in short, serviced apartment living and in particular at Merchiston Residence, offers all the benefits of being at home, throwing in a splash of luxury, on-call concierge and the joys of a new city on the doorstep, with none of the tedious day to day responsibilities – it’s a no brainer!
http://www.lateralcity.com/merchiston-residence
