Design Hotel Plattenhof

Zürich’s reputation for stylistic conservatism is not entirely undeserved, but as anywhere, there are exceptions. Design Hotel Plattenhof stretches the business-hotel idiom with smart, subtly executed design decisions throughout. Still very Swiss, no doubt, but hardly a stranger to fun; a friendly touch in this context goes quite a long way.

You, on the other hand, won’t have to go far at all: they mean it when they say you’re centrally located, right next to the University and within strolling distance of both the old town and the lake. It’s a hilly and peaceful neighborhood, though like any campus its pace quickens with nightfall. Speaking of which, Plattenhof’s 37 rooms espouse sleek, breathable minimalism to the smallest detail (trust a nation of watchmakers to nail that), flirting with Asian serenity via plenty of negative space and welcoming, low-rise beds with luxe linens. It’s no IKEA showroom, thanks to the hardwood flooring and furniture by Molteni and Milano as well as elegant Artemide lamps. The expected tech is all there — LCD flatscreens, DVD players, docking stations, and complimentary wi-fi — and the national character comes through loud and clear, immaculately clean and efficiently laid out with more than enough storage room.

Public spaces sustain the spotless geometry, all the better for the floods of natural light through sizable windows. A satisfying spread of hot and cold breakfast dishes, including a surprising variety of cheeses, starts each day on the right note. Sento, the on-site Italian restaurant, accompanies traditional plates with an impressive wine list and a rotating display of contemporary art; take them on the garden terrace, weather permitting, for a restful, sun-dappled meal. There’s also an all-day café and bar, perfect for a pick-me-up or fresh cocktail between museum visits; literally and metaphorically rich, Zürich rewards the visually curious, so don’t coop yourself up for too long.