Hotel Morris Sydney - Handwritten Collection — Hotel in Sydney

Stylish but somewhat Impractical.

The entrance to this boutique hotel was a bit tricky to find at first – it looked like a bar, but that was actually the reception area. Once inside, I was able to drop my luggage and return later for check-in without any problems, so the process was smooth enough.

I stayed in Room 605 (Piccolo), which was tastefully decorated but very compact. The design leaned heavily on style, but practicality was a secondary consideration. For example, there was a sizeable decorative roll cushion on the bed with no obvious place to put it when sleeping. The wall-mounted frame for hanging clothes was attractive but highlighted the lack of storage and was too close to the bed. The bathroom, while small, was well-designed and visually appealing; although I’m personally not a fan of fixed waterfall shower heads (although it could be tilted). The bathroom could have done with a heated towel rail as there wasn’t really anywhere to dry wet towels. The bed was very comfortable. The carpet could have done with a thorough clean/vacuum - there were strands of long hair on the floor.

There were also soundproofing issues, including what I presumed was the metro thundering underneath occasionally. I could also hear guests above me using the toilet/bathroom, as well as water service pipe noises frequently. While not a major issue for me, it might be a dealbreaker for light sleepers or those seeking complete peace and quiet. The room was located just slightly opposite the lifts - I didn’t experience any noise issues that caused disruption but again, during busy periods early in the morning or late at night it may be an issue for light sleepers.

Personally, I wouldn’t stay here again as I found the space too small and not functional enough for my needs. While there are larger rooms available at this hotel, I didn’t feel I could justify the cost for the upgrade for the duration of my stay. The overall value of the hotel seems to lean more on its boutique branding and design rather than practicality - which of course is absolutely fine - I think it does a great job at that but in my view very sensible hotel practicalities have been overlooked.

On the positive side, the hotel is in a convenient location, and there are plenty of dining and shopping options within walking distance, including offerings within the hotel itself - they should have promoted this more at check-in as I may have considered it, although maybe I wasn’t the clientele they were aiming for or maybe they had no tables available - I’ll never know. If you prioritise aesthetics and location over space and functionality, this could be an excellent option for you (just make sure you choose a bigger room). However, if you need more space, practical features and/or want to be very close to Sydney Harbour/Circular Quay (I didn’t mind walking to the harbour/Circular Quay from the hotel - it’s very doable), it may be worth exploring other options, however, this hotel is by no means unworthy of your...

Located about 20 minutes drive away from the Kingsford Smith Airport in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, the Hotel Morris Sydney Handwritten Collection is an evocative 4-star boutique hotel exuding a refined old-world charm. With its central location in the heart of the city near the business district, major shopping centres, and popular tourist attractions, the Hotel Morris Sydney Handwritten Collection serves as a great base to explore the area.

Ambience at Hotel Morris Sydney Handwritten Collection is part Wes Anderson film set, part Italian American gangster mafia vibe, part old-world luxury. The Italian architecture features gorgeous arched lattice windows, high ceilings, and stark vibrant red, brown, black, and gold colour palettes.

Rooms at Hotel Morris Sydney Handwritten Collection are clean and comfortable. I stayed at the luxurious Grande King room, their equivalent of a suite. There's a lounge area for dining or working, a custom designed bed, IIUVO soigné bathroom amenities, shower steamer, rain shower head, a 42-inch smart television, fast and stable wi-fi, and a Nespresso machine. I wished there was a chain lock for the door. I liked the complimentary wine they supplied.

Service at Hotel Morris Sydney Handwritten Collection is friendly and attentive. Staff accord each guest personalised attention, but there aren't too many on duty, so they serve one at a time. Requests are promptly fulfilled, and checking in and out was smooth. Housekeeping is polite and works efficiently, kudos to them!

The facilities and activities at Hotel Morris Sydney Handwritten Collection, beyond the restaurant and bar, are non-existent, as this is a boutique hotel. This isn't a big problem, as Hotel Morris Sydney Handwritten Collection is within walking distance to many entertainment options, including major tourist attractions. Overall, I would recommend staying at Hotel Morris Sydney...

Unfortunately the reviews for this hotel are pretty accurate, though there are some redeeming features. We had a pretty poor check-in experience - not because we couldn’t find the reception, but due to the reception staff (same as the bar staff) being quite condescending and rude. The drunk patrons at the bar did not help the situation. Our room was small, dark, and smelled faintly of smoke. The floor wasn’t clean. We then had another issue with that room, which I won’t mention, but suffice to say we didn’t want to stay there any longer. Full credit to the hotel staff who moved us immediately, to a larger room that did not smell. So perhaps the bigger rooms are better? That room would have been fine except for the absolutely terrible soundproofing. We could hear conversations next door, and the shower running. I could smell next door’s cologne (which I presume travelled through the vents?). It didn’t feel very private at all. The other odd thing is the air-conditioning, which worked perfectly well in the day, but gave up overnight. We woke each night sweating because it suddenly heated up. We didn’t bother complaining about this, or the noise, because from other reviews it seems to be a consistent issue. While the Nespresso machine in the room was great, the mugs and glasses were all dirty and had lipstick stains. When I left them out - looking used - to be replaced, I found the next day the same cups, with the same lipstick stains. So either they’re not being washed, or there are a lot of lipstick stains on their cups and mugs. On the plus side, the hotel is well located, the bed was very comfortable, and all the staff bar one were friendly and accommodating. Overall, I wouldn’t return, as I don’t think the issues with the rooms can be fixed easily. While the hotel was well priced compared to other 4-star Sydney hotels, I would prefer to spend a bit more for...