Upon entering Nici’s cool white lobby, the first thing that greets me is a modern piece of art that says MY AMI – geddit?
And indeed, although I’ve just arrived here walking from Bournemouth station down a somewhat generic main street and past a somewhat soulless leisure complex, I feel like I’ve entered a different dimension.
Walking up to the art deco terrace, pale green and white outside, to catch my first glimpse of the azure sea beyond, the feeling intensifies. Am I in boring old Blighty or… Miami?
Back inside, the decor changes from oversized tropical print wallpaper to a scattering of modern artwork.
Some of the 73 rooms have whirlpool tubs — mine has a wooden deck with lounge chairs, a massive bed as plump and comfy as a marshmallow, and a small gold-and-glass cocktail cart carrying a carafe. with a jigger or two of free rum.
There’s a small pool on the grounds, with plans to install a larger infinity pool for next summer (which will be followed by a spa).
Two antique bronze palm trees flank the entrance to the restaurant, aptly named South Beach, where you can feast on barbecued cauliflower steak (£12), prime rib (£18) or fish and chips (16 £).
USP
In a city full of traditional guesthouses and bed and breakfasts, The Nici’s elegant style and art-driven design stand out.
All of the artwork — from an image of Che Guevara painted on Cuban cigar molds, to kitschy renderings of Americana, like pink Cadillacs — was directly purchased or commissioned by the hotel’s creative director, Anthony Rudolph.
Pops of color – burnt orange, racing green, dusky pink – feature on furniture in public spaces.
Who’s there?
Locals of all ages flock here. Staff reveal they have also been visited by former guests of the Savoy, the 1980s-dated hotel that has become The Nici and was once owned by Shearings coach company.
Their packages were largely aimed at the Blue Rinse Squad, some of whom returned to see how things had changed and seemingly had a blast.
Adventure
The beach, reached by the winding zigzag path from West Cliff, is just moments away and stretches ten miles to Poole.
Further along the coast is the Russell Cotes Museuma lavish Victorian villa with pretty gardens owned by a wealthy family who loved collecting art, including dreamy Pre-Raphaelite paintings (entry £7.50).
Downtown, Bobby’s department store, established in 1915, has opened a contemporary art gallery on the second floor.
The chic resort town of Sandbanks is just 15 minutes away by car.
Try a Scandi experience by booking a session at the new Salt water sauna on the promenade (from £50 for up to five people).
Rooms at The Nici from £212.
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