Sunlit poolside outpost
Sunlight floods the central courtyard pool and terrace, channeling a relaxed Palm Springs motel energy along Paddington's creative thoroughfare.
What it’s good at
Notable
Palm Springs mid-century aesthetic featuring pale timber finishes, curated Australian artwork, and light-filled guest spaces.
Notable
A courtyard pool bar and Busby's natural wine salon host weekend DJ sets and vinyl listening sessions.
Listed
Rooms feature bathrobes by Paddington label Double Rainbouu, steps from Oxford Street fashion boutiques and galleries.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and Wallpaper*.
Inspired by the motels of Southern California, this playful hotel signals a revitalization of this stretch of Paddington…
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
The front doors open onto Oxford Street, steps from Paddington's independent designer boutiques, contemporary art galleries, and Victoria Barracks.
The rooms
Light-filled spaces feature pale timber accents and muted earthy tones, finished with original Australian art and custom patterned bathrobes.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The open-air courtyard pool has a tiled monogram on the basin floor and cushioned loungers under fringe umbrellas.
The Pool Terrace & Pool Bar
Striped awnings and potted palms shade the terrace tables, where bartenders mix signature margaritas over plates of tuna crudo.
Conceived as the first lifestyle hotel in the Paddington neighbourhood, Oxford House (or OH! to its friends) takes its design cues from the muted tones of Palm Springs, but with local design elements.
At the table
Busby's serves natural wines and seasonal shared plates in a street-level room soundtracked by vinyl records.
How it began
Formerly the Arts Hotel, the building was overhauled in 2022 to introduce Paddington's first mid-century modern lifestyle retreat.
Good to know
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Oxford House Paddington
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.