Housed in a charming building dating back to the late-19th century, Hotel One Shot Recoletos 04 is the opposite of conventional. Past the handsome red-brick facade, interiors are artsy, fun, and stylish. Pops of bold colors, whimsical furniture, and unique pieces of contemporary art combine with the original architectural features of the building -- think arched doorways and wooden staircases with wrought-iron handrails -- to create spaces packed with character. The small cafe is probably the most striking of all, with a sleek combination of geometrical patterns, and Art Deco-inspired touches such as golden finishes, mirrored surfaces, and navy velvet benches. The lack of common spaces and on-site amenities may put some travelers off, but those looking for a clean, design-oriented place to sleep may find lots of things to like about this funky, centrally located boutique. Visitors wanting to stay in a more lively area may prefer sister property Hotel One Shot 23, which has a similar creative vibe and is located in hopping Huertas neighborhood.

The hotel is located on a small, quiet street in the upscale Salamanca neighborhood, an area known for its high-end shopping and great dining. There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops within a couple of blocks, and Puerta de Alcala and one of the main entrances to Retiro Park are just a couple of blocks up the street from the hotel. Cibeles and the striking City Hall are both just a three-minute walk away, and Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums are each about 10 minutes on foot from the hotel. Other major attractions, such as Plaza Mayor, Reina Sofia Museum, and Sol can be reached in about 20 minutes. Metro Line 2, which goes straight to the Royal Palace and La Almudena Cathedral, can be taken at both Banco de Espana and Retiro stops, each located a five-minute walk from the hotel. The airport can be reached in about 15 minutes by car. 

The hotel’s 60 rooms are decorated in a bold, contemporary style that combines splashes of color in chairs and bed skirts with minimalist lines, wood floors, and modern art on walls. Most rooms are a tad compact for the price, but open closets, white walls, and the lack of doors separating the bathroom from the sleeping area add some visual space. Standard and Executive Rooms overlook a small courtyard decorated with contemporary paintings, which can make them a bit dark, but all other room categories have big windows facing the street, creating a more spacious, bright feel. Some have small balconies. Each room is equipped with great amenities, including free Wi-Fi, 46-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars, and safes. Robes, slippers, and curling irons are available on request. Mattresses are thick and comfortable, and are topped with light duvets and four quality pillows. Bathrooms are small but clean and modern, with rectangular sinks and spacious rainfall showers. The toilet cabins, though, have frosted glass doors, which some guests may find lacking in privacy.

The hotel’s funky, bold interiors cater to design-conscious travelers, and there are always temporary art exhibitions on-site. Modern, colorful sculptures dot common spaces, and the artwork on walls changes regularly, showcasing works by local and international artists. The hotel’s small cafe serves breakfast every morning, but no other meals are offered on-site. Although it is not a full buffet, guests are offered bottomless hot and cold drinks, and can order as many continental breakfast items as they want. The concierge can help guests arrange museum visits, local tours, theater tickets, and restaurant reservations. Guests traveling by car can park their vehicles at a nearby public parking garage at a discounted rate. Wi-Fi is free throughout.