Surry Hills meets the Hollywood Hills at Paramount House Hotel, an arresting new Sydney lodge with cinematic presence. Named for the iconic movie studio and the one-time film warehouse it occupies, the inner-city property is equal parts luxe and louche. The exterior of the heritage building has been crowned with a dramatic zigzag-shaped copper exoskeleton, while the interior, dotted with taxidermy, potted plants and original art, has been inventively decorated. Guests enter the lobby by ambling through a cafe as busy as a film set.The elevator is wrapped in a Wes Anderson-like pink wallpaper.

The hotel’s 29 rooms, hatched by Melbourne architects Breathe, continue the film theme. I stayed in a ’Mack Daddy’ suite, pimped out with a metallic armoire, blush-coloured sofa, and artworks from China Heights gallery. My bed was dressed in plush linen sheets from Cultiver, and I had access to a sun-dappled enclosed terrace. A Japanese soaking tub was an unusual but welcome addition to the ensuite. The minibar was equipped with gourmet treats, including salami from LP’s Quality Meats, coffee from Seven Seeds and cocktails from Continental Deli.

Many hotels aspire to be a draw for both locals and tourists, but Paramount really does deliver. The top floor has a health club and outdoor garden cafe, while the art-house Golden Age Cinema & Bar has long graced the basement. Opening this season is a new restaurant from Ester’s Mat Lindsay. Dubbed Poly, the venue is Lindsay’s version of a modern wine bar. Expect finger food such as tea-smoked Pacific oysters and small plates cooked over charcoal, as well as organic and natural wines. It will be a scene.

80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills, Sydney
paramounthousehotel.com