Market Street Hotel, Edinburgh, UK

I knew that opening of the Market Street Hotel in 2019 was a significant event when it was in the news also in Finland, my home country. It was Scotland's first hotel in the international group of Design Hotels. The hotel was designed by JMARCHITECTS and FG Stijl on a derelict gap site in Edinburgh's old town. They chose a bold contemporary design, very different from surrounding medieval buildings. Also, the white stone of the façade makes it stand out and is a close match to Edinburgh's historic Craigleith sandstone. The designers aimed to create a space that would inspire the guests to connect with their creativity and discover a unique perspective on the city of Edinburgh. I was eager to get started!

Market Street Hotel

Of all the hotels I have visited, this was the first that didn't have reception on the first floor. By positioning the reception area on the 7th floor, they ensured that the first thing the guests see is the panoramic view of the city. I have always been a very visual person and different spaces have a strong impact on me. Just being in this space was an experience for me!

My Vista Room

My flight landed early in the morning, so I was very grateful that the receptionist could do the check-in when I arrived. The staff assisted me kindly in all the situations. For example, when I needed an adapter for the electrical plugs, I got one from reception. I found my room easily and was immediately impressed with the natural light pouring from the floor-to-ceiling window, the pleasant scent, the chosen high-end finishes, and the size (21 sqm).

There is traditionally carpet flooring in the bedrooms in Britain, but I was delighted with the hardwood/stone floor and the contemporary style in Market Street Hotel. The rooms blend Scandinavian design with Scottish symbols. 28 different versions of tartans can be found in the 98 boutique-style rooms. I had a Vista room that looked out to the front of the hotel. Vista rooms are located on the higher floors of the hotel, and I was glad I chose this option when I saw the view! I do believe that seeing the city from your window enables you to connect with it better. I felt right at home from the start in this sophisticated and warm room.  The most unique feature of the room was the ability to slide a wooden door over the window instead of blackout blinds. What a great design element! 

My Vista room featured a small cloakroom with a place to store the luggage, hangers, and a water basin. The en-suite bathroom had a beautiful rainfall shower and the Votary's products felt luxurious. Also, I really liked the metro wall tiles in this space. There were a few black spots on the wall of the shower, but other than that the room was immaculate and clean. The complimentary minibar was a nice surprise and included a good selection of soft and alcoholic beverages and a few different snacks. Also, tap water is drinkable in Scotland and of excellent quality!

Champagne Lounge

The Champagne Lounge on the 7th floor of Market Street Hotel has a delightful selection of different seating arrangements. The floor-to-ceiling windows maximize the panoramic vistas and invite you to enjoy the view over drinks or small plates. The numerous fireplaces complement the sophisticated design. Also, the continental breakfast was served in this space. It included e.g. a great variety of fresh fruits, yogurt, homemade granola, sweet pastries, and champagne – naturally. Clients could order porridge and warm toast from the menu. In addition, they offer a picnic menu in the afternoons.

In Conclusion

Edinburgh is an interesting fusion of modern culture and living history. Since the Market Street Hotel is located in the very center, it was easy to explore the old and new parts of the city on foot. The hotel did leave a lasting impression on me and I will remember this visit for a long time. For me, a visit to a hotel like this is never just about getting a place to rest. It is about the exploration of architecture, design, culture, and history and I am very happy that I was able to do all of that here.