As summer descends on the city, Nick Walton takes a look at some of the leading boutique houses of slumber in Sydney.

The Sebel Quay West Suites

If you want to be in the heart of the action, you can’t go past this all-suite icon of The Rocks, which recently underwent a multi-million dollar refurbishment. In addition to extensive renovations of the rooms, The Sebel Quay West Suites’ lobby has been completely transformed, with curated artwork and upscale furniture selected to complement The Rocks’ locale and proximity to the harbour.

The hotel features deluxe one- two- and three bedroom suites (above) with fully equipped kitchens, dining areas, marble bathrooms, full laundry facilities, and stunning harbour or city views, making the hotel ideal for groups and families.

Be sure to leave time to visit the 1920s Parisian The Quartier Bistro & Bar, sip the signature Bon Apple Tea cocktail at the bar, or cool off in the Roman-style sunken indoor swimming pool.

Crystalbrook Albion

Located in one of Sydney’s coolest enclaves, Crystalbrook Albion in Surry Hills is housed within a former convent school dating from 1903, and stays true to its historical DNA while injecting a little colour into the scene with eclectic design and custom artwork.

While the hotel’s 35 guest rooms are cozy and welcoming, you might want to splurge on the Albion Luxury Suite, which comes complete with a king-sized bed, 70s-inspired décor, Molton Brown bathroom amenities, Gothic windows, and a wall-mounted television over the bathtub.

While the hotel doesn’t have its own restaurant, you’re spoiled for choice with surrounding eateries (including local favourite, WyNo X Bodega wine bar) and don’t forget to sneak up to the hidden rooftop garden with a bottle of vino for those balmy Sydney evenings.

The Porter House Hotel

The city’s newest hotel, The Porter House Hotel – MGallery opened this September in the city’s iconic Porter House, a heritage-listed building commissioned in 1876 by Hugh Dixson.

Located in the heart of the CBD on Castlereagh Street, the new hotel boasts just 122 rooms and suites designed by award-winning architect Angelo Candelepas, who has seamlessly linked the historic building – home to a multi-level food and bar destination that includes sophisticated Dixson & Sons brasserie – with a new 36-storey mixed-use tower.

Cool off in the hotel’s heated pool and explore the city like a local guided by the exclusive Digit Valet – a walking, talking iPad concierge, the only one of its kind in Australia.