In a bustling city, bursting at the seams, where do you go for space? Upwards of course and you can’t get any higher in this city than atop the iconic Rotunda; a grade II listed, architecturally impactful building which comes with the benefit of fabulous views over the city skyline and beyond.
A literal stone’s throw from New Street station and with the Bullring on the doorstep, Staying Cool in Birmingham really puts you in the heart of the city.
Serviced apartments are proving ever more popular with city visitors across the country with the mix of couples and family bookings increasing alongside the ever popular commercial bookings for the business traveller. Super-efficient, easy, well-located, perfectly-equipped and with all those little extras which you ideally would like, such as black-out blinds, a convenient work / make-up desk, privacy, space and….views; Staying Cool at the Rotunda offers the perfect solution to a stay in Birmingham.
Each type of design-led apartment at the Rotunda has been named after certain iconic cars, manufactured, down the road in Longbridge: Minis, Clubmans, Maxis and Roadsters; a fun aspect and reflective of the styling and ethos of the small, independently owned business.
Retro in style, with original artwork and bespoke British furniture, each apartment offers an unquestionably amazing view over the Birmingham skyline and beyond, prettier at night, when multi-coloured lights, highlight the key landmarks and sprinkle a little magic over the city.
Clean lines and clever simplicity mix to make this one of the easiest city stays I’ve experienced; from booking, to check-in and check-out; speed, efficiency and a friendly, informative and thoroughly professional bookings and welcome team, definitely win points over central hotel contemporaries.
The layout is reasonably open-plan with clever room divides, maximizing space and light which floods in through floor to ceiling windows; fabulous for the day and an intimate space in the night.
Clever use of space in the Clubman, allows for a double-entrance bathroom, both convenient and a feature, adding to the feeling of amplitude and making for a good flow between rooms. I adored the basic lines in the ensuite, complete with a room length shelf – perfect for any amount of toiletries and all accessible from the shower and bath; a refreshing change from the balancing act which usually accompanies hotel stays.
With the ambience of a suite, the small bedroom area felt less confined and more intimate; with the choice of leaving open to the main living area or closing off to create a cozy and very private snug. The flexibility of the entire space is a definite plus and allows for comfortable longer stays comparing favourably to 4 star hotel suites yet not reflective of their prices.
The living space is equipped with all necessities, with the added bonus of breakfast essentials, including fresh oranges for squeezing, eliminating the need to rush out for provisions – although Tesco Express is very convenient and a short five-minute walk! Concierge service also offers advance shopping, if you are planning a romantic dinner or a movie night in for one.
Sky TV and board games ensure no family members get, well….bored, not that there is ever a time when this is likely, being so central to city life.
I found it admirable that Staying Cool is striving for various Green Awards and have taken active steps to ensuring this shall happen. Fun explanations of re-usable shampoo and soap bottles, use of towels for longer stays and light and heat economy, encourage guests to participate, rather than feeling pressured. Add fairtrade, locally sourced products to the list and it seems that the Green Award for Tourism is not far off. I look forward to hearing that the first award in recognition of these efforts, is safely in the cabinet!