The hotel is situated in a lovely gray and white five-story building dating to 1911 that was designed by famed Turkish architect Mimar Kemaleddin. It's on a corner, so it has facades on two different streets. Historic detailing and ornate wrought iron railings with flower boxes distinguish the building, which was renovated from 2011 to 2013. The sidewalks are lined with potted plants and cafe seating. Guests enter through tall black and glass doors into a charming, elegant lobby with marble floors, high ceilings, and rich period detailing. There is an elevator, but many guests choose to access the upper floors by way of the beautiful spiral staircase. In back of the lobby is a cozy area that has been turned into an art gallery. Seating is provided so guests can hang out and enjoy the art. Because of its location in the heart of the film industry, the hotel has been featured in several TV shows and films. The hotel is most popular with couples -- not surprising, given its romantic, bohemian vibe --  but families, small groups, and business travelers also are found here. 

The hotel is located on a narrow street in the Taksim/Galatasaray district close to Istiklal Caddesi, one of the city's main thoroughfares. Other small hotels and residential buildings surround it, and there are multiple restaurants and bars within walking distance in every direction. The location is also in the heart of Turkey's film industry, so production agencies and casting firms are nearby. One of the city's most famous Turkish baths, Galatasaray Hamam, is just around the corner. Taksim Square -- with tram, metro, and funicular stations -- is less than 10 minutes away on foot. The neighboring Cihangir neighborhood is one of the city's trendiest neighborhoods, with all manner of hipster-friendly cafes and hang-out spots. For Turkish art, the Pera Museum is about a 12-minute walk from the hotel, and it's a 20-minute walk to the waterfront Istanbul Museum of Modern Art. Sultanhamet, where most of the city's historic attractions are found, including the Grand Bazaar, is about 20 minutes away by car. Convenient transportation options to reach the area are located in Taksim Square. Ataturk International Airport is about a 45-minute drive from the hotel, depending on traffic. 

Rooms here are undeniably elegant, and done in the same stylish blend of old and new that characterizes the rest of the hotel. Expect to see handsome hardwood floors, high ceilings, ornate wainscoting, marble-topped desks and nightstands, and rich black-out drapery. Despite their Old-World leanings, the decor is restrained, with almost nothing in the way of wall art, and just a few pops of color in the soft furnishings, like green and deep red. Crisp white linens top beds, and pillow menus allow guests to choose their level of comfort. 

All rooms offer modern comforts including flat-screen TVs, minibars, air-conditioning, electric kettles or Nespresso coffeemakers, and laptop-sized safes. Bathrooms are on the small side, but they have rich marble surfaces, heated flooring, rainfall showerheads, and hairdryers. Some Classic rooms come with jetted tubs in the sleeping room. Deluxe Rooms offer more space and separate sitting and sleeping rooms. Some have small furnished balconies. The Corinne Suite is even larger and has dining space with a table and chairs in addition to the sitting area. A flat-screen TV is mounted on the wall over the jetted tub in the bathroom in the suite.

The hotel doesn't have much in the way of features, but it does have an excellent on-site restaurant and bar. The Corinne Brasserie, on the ground floor, is a charming, cozy space with brick and warm wood walls, checkered tablecloths, and a Mediterranean menu. It also has a lovely patio for alfresco dining. Potted plants and heaters add warmth and atmosphere. Alternatively, views of the city from the rooftop terrace are spectacular. Original artwork is displayed throughout the hotel. Wi-Fi is also free throughout.