UPDATE: A unique transformation has taken place in Oxford, where a historic public toilet has been reborn as a luxury boutique hotel named The Netty. This reimagined space, located beneath St. Giles Road, is now welcoming guests seeking an extraordinary overnight experience.
Once a functioning lavatory built in 1895, this underground facility served the elite of Oxford for over a century before closing in 2008. After years of neglect, The Netty has officially opened its doors, offering a one-of-a-kind stay that pays homage to its unusual past. Each of the two lavishly appointed “sweets” costs approximately £170 ($228) per night, featuring modern amenities like heated floors and rain showers.
Manager Ana Pinheiro expressed her excitement about the hotel’s opening, stating, “Our vision was to create a space that appeals to travellers looking for a personalised experience. We want every guest to appreciate the surprising details that make this space so unique.” With no front desk or room service, The Netty offers a 24-hour helpline to assist guests, ensuring a seamless experience.
Stepping into The Netty, visitors find arched brick ceilings and vintage decor that cleverly nod to its history. This captivating space reflects a trend in repurposing unusual buildings, such as a former Victorian restroom in London’s Fitzrovia now operating as a coffee shop called The Attendant, and a Berlin establishment known as Café Achteck, where patrons now enjoy craft beer in a former WC.
The resurgence of such establishments highlights a growing interest in sustainability and innovative design, sparking conversations about the creative reuse of historical structures. The Netty’s transformation from a public toilet to a luxurious hotel provides a fascinating narrative for guests eager to share their experience.
As guests emerge from their unique stay, they are not just treated to comfort and style; they also leave with intriguing stories about their time in a former lavatory. This creative venture showcases how even the most unconventional spaces can be redefined for modern enjoyment.
Expect to see more developments in the world of boutique hotels as creative minds continue to find new life in the unexpected. The Netty stands as a testament to imaginative transformation, blending history and luxury in the heart of Oxford.
