The DNA: Originally built by the Salvation Army in the late 19th and early 20th century, the iconic Naumi Studio features a grand entrance on Dunlop Street, from which those who step over the threshold are today transported into a sensory wonderland. In keeping with the hotel’s eclectic surroundings (the neighbourhood home to indie record shops, a mixture of cheap eats and high-end restaurants, and established and up-and-coming art galleries), the latest from Naumi Hotels promotes the talents of New Zealand artists and designers. Those local art interventions come in the shape of a large scale floral backdrop in the design hotel’s entrancing lobby area created by Art Dep’t NZ, and completely covered in gold; brilliant bespoke rugs created by artist Karl Maughan; a gigantic Koonsesque lighted floral sculpture by Angus Muir Designs; and an ethereal portrait of Lady Naumi shrouded in neon, which hangs proudly in the chaotically wonderful reception. With interior design by Auckland-based firm Material Creative, a grand bar commands the attention of guests, whilst books and oddities fill the lounge area; a perfect place from which to read, people watch and hatch plans. Rooms honour the heritage of the building and infuse a modern design twist, whilst Lola Rouge, the hotel’s full service restaurant, the pastel coloured parlour set to be a welcoming space to sip a drink at the bar or chow down on Pan Asian-inspired plates; just as Lady Naumi certainly would do should she be still with us today.

Seen: The Spaces, WeHeart

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 116 rooms & suites (18-60m2) (194-646 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2020 • interior design: Material Creative • on-site parking (charged) • no pets allowed • 24-hour front desk