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The hotel scores well on the coordinates too, smack in central Jakarta behind Sarinha Mall, walking distance to bars, restaurants and transport. You won’t miss the street-art style facade by local artist Darbotz, nor the helix-like staircase visible through the glass frontage which opens to a spacious modern art-filled lobby. ROCO (Restaurant of Contemporary Art) open 24/7 sits to the side, embellished with the crazy critters of Swiss–based Indonesian artist Eddie Hara’s murals and artworks. A gallery space on the mezzanine level displays regular changing exhibitions, and the rooms themselves come in three sizes, all featuring the work of one of five contemporary Indonesian artists—each gets a floor to go wild.

“Welcome my friends.” Photo: Sally Arnold

The names “Studio 20”, “Studio 25”, and “Studio 40” refer to the size of the space and although they are mostly not huge, they are comfortable and well designed. The simple styling with raw cement walls and floors and minimalist contemporary built-ins maximises the impact of the room-sized artworks. Air-con rooms are clean and smart with comfy beds, and decent lighting. Standard amenities include a flatscreen TV, safe, iPod dock and (not-so environmentally friendly) pod coffee maker, and higher categories add a mini fridge, sofa and Studio 40 does a whole extra living room. Windows are on the small size, but it’s about the art, not the view here. Compact tiled ensuite bathrooms are simple but stylish with a semi-glassed hot-water shower and modern facilities.

Artotel’s rooftop bar is called BART, now we bet you think that’s bar plus art? Well, ok, perhaps, but it’s “Bar At The Rooftop” (we think the art is better than the names), but despite what they call it, it’s a smashing spot for a sundowner, a pre-dinner cocktail or to party on all night with views across the crazy capital. Reports mention that noise from the bar can be heard on the upper floors, so if you’d prefer to sleep than party, request a lower floor. Rock up for your buffet breakfast (included in some deals) at ROCA for some recovery.

Thumbs up for the rooftop bar area. Photo: Sally Arnold

Artotel’s accommodating and friendly staff are but another of the hotel’s assets. We like this arty joint, but think it’s a tad pricey considering there’s no swimming pool (although there are bicycles if you’re willing to brave Jakarta’s traffic!), so shop around for deals and if it’s out of your budget, go and check out the art (and the bar) anyway. If you are keen on a swimming pool, consider Morrissey as an alliterative, or you might prefer the stylish Kosenda Hotel, also sans pool.