Witt Istanbul Suites, Istanbul, Turkey

When Witt Istanbul Suites opened its doors in spring 2008, it instantly gained a reputation as the best boutique hotel in Istanbul for discerning artists, architects and hipsters in Turkey’s vibrant capital. Owner Tuncel Toprak studied architecture and design in New York and decided to indulge his passion for luxury hotels and cutting-edge interiors rather than follow his in father’s footsteps in the property developing business.

So when Ogilvy and Mather abandoned their Istanbul HQ in trendy Cihangir district, he and his sister instructed hip young award-winning architects Autoban to transform it into an Istanbul boutique hotel that knocks the spots off its competitors. As well as filling the 15 suites with their signature, modernist-inspired furniture, Autoban created an elegant floral motif especially for Witt Istanbul Suites. Using state-of-the-art laser-cutting techniques, this motif appears everywhere from the marble check-in desk to wardrobes and banisters. It also spans a whole wall of the ground floor where fashionable Roka restaurant and its tiny bar have all the atmosphere of an exclusive members club.

Witt Istanbul Suites’ has an excellent location within walking distance from Istanbul’s business district, Istanbul Modern museum and the buzzing bars and boutiques of both Beyoglu and Cihangir. With all the latest technology and charming staff hand-picked from Istanbul’s best luxury hotels, it’s the perfect pied-a-terre whether you’re visiting Istanbul for work or pleasure. Fans should watch this space for future Witt hotels as Toprak plans to open more in Istanbul, other hotspots in Turkey and further afield.

The facilities

The top-floor fitness studio at Witt Istanbul Suites has spectacular views over Galata, Taksim, the Bosphorus and Sultanahmet. In the summer months, the glass walls fold back so guests can enjoy the Technogym equipment and pilates and yoga classes al fresco. Massages can also be arranged in your room

The rooms

All 15 suites span a generous 60m2. They are popular for long-stay guests as each has a Carrera marble-clad kitchnette with microwave, fridge and Nespresso machine. The super-cool beds with curved headboards and the laptop desks have been especially designed for Witt Istanbul Suites by Autoban. Sheets and towels were also commissioned from Denizli, a famous purveyor of Turkish linen. Cable TV, an excellent DVD collection, ipod docks and a welcome gift of multi-coloured macaroons are indulgent touches. But it’s the bathrooms that make these suites really special. The ergonomic corian sinks with pebble-shaped handles and the cluster of shower-heads that create a cocoon of misty hot water are all from designer Ross Lovegrove’s Istanbul collection from Vitra.