Cool Hunting

While in Austin recently, I spent a couple of nights at a beautifully designed new hotel called the Kimber Modern, located in the happening SOCO area, just a short hop, skip and sideways roll to the bustling hive of restaurants and cafes along South Congress. The hotel features more than a few twists, including stunningly elegant and contemporary architecture with subtle splashes of color to break up the overall white-walled minimalism. Clever design touches, such as communal hammocks made from car belts and a giant tank churning liters of water for a calming, almost Zen-like effect, add to the atmosphere too. (All photos by Alison Zavos)

Another quirky but practical touch, the Kimber Modern lacks door keys. Instead, guests choose a four-digit password when making their booking and this gives them access to both the main building and the door to their room, a surprisingly efficient system. In the rooms themselves, cheerful colors mesh with the classic austere lines, while fun and vibrant artwork above the beds, illustrate the cultural fermentation of Austin, Texas.

Book rooms through their site, with rack rates starting at $250 per night.

Kimber Modern Bed and Breakfast
110 The Circle
Austin, Texas 78704 map
tel. +1 512 912 1046

See more images after the jump.