Room Mate Oscar
This is the fourth place that the innovative Room Mate group has opened in Madrid, joining the Laura, Alicia and Mario hotels. Situated in the heart of the buzzing Chueca quarter and close to the Gran Vía, it is handy for shopping, nightlife and sightseeing. With stunning contemporary interiors designed by Tomas Alia, the Oscar is already a coveted place to stay. The 75 rooms have free wifi internet access and American-style towels, and some have views over the Plaza Vázquez de Mella. Rooms start at around 80 euros and a good buffet breakfast is included in the price.
Plaza Vázquez de Mella 12. Tel +34 91 701 1173
Chic&Basic Colors
Chic&Basic are pioneers of the current wave of reasonably-priced designer accommodation, with two hotels in Barcelona and this one in the lively Santa Ana district of Madrid. A short walk to the Prado and other major museums, it is surrounded by tapas bars and restaurants. There are just ten rooms, all strikingly decorated in different colours, contrasted with swathes of dramatic black and white. Although basic, rooms have plasma televisions, music systems and stylish bathrooms. Guests can help themselves to breakfast, snacks and newspapers, and there is free internet access too. Rates start at around 70 euros, and go up depending on demand.
Huertas 14. Tel +34 91 429 6935
Casa Chueca
There are only three rooms at this new hostal in the city centre, in the fashionable Chueca neighbourhood, which is the hub of the gay scene in Madrid. There is one single, one double and one triple, at fixed rates ranging from 40 to 70 euros, and all are decorated in funky, contemporary style. Again, there is no superfluous luxury, but all have private bathrooms, internet access, televisions and tea and coffee making facilities, and let’s face it, in a location like this you are hardly going to be spending a lot of time at your hotel.
