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A sister property to Jason Pomeranc’s 60 Thompson, in Soho, 6 Columbus nails the trendy-boutique formula perfectly. You’ll see flashes of fashion-mag savvy everywhere, from the serious-faced front-desk clerk in a skinny Rag & Bone suit to the sexy, Steven Sclaroff–designed guest floors and mood-lit hallways. In fact, the crowd here—fashion-obsessed, largely single, often European—deviates not one bit from the demographic at Pomeranc’s other jet-set hangouts. 88 mod rooms are splashed with blue then embellished by Guy Bourdin’s fashiony art prints. More downtown cool than downright luxurious—especially considering the top-flight price—the hotel still deserves kudos for taking a formerly rat-infested budget lodging from 1920 and whipping it into starlet shape. And speaking of stars: Either of the $3,000-a-night signature lofts (part of an addition built on top of the old building) seem specifically designed to attract bold-faced names. So do the in-house amenities, like the Blue Ribbon Sushi off the lobby. — Stephen Milioti

An inspired design, with lots of color and imagination; the small size means lots of privacy and a VIP feel.

Cons
While it’s uniquely designed, some might argue it’s not as luxurious it could be for the price. Also, the vibe’s a bit chilly.