This striking Italianate mansion was built as a hotel in 1902 and was meticulously restored and stylishly updated to become a sophisticated and contemporary boutique hotel in 2005. Many of the original features—rosettes, cornices, stained-glass windows, wide verandas, and high ceilings—have been retained, and the guest rooms have been fashioned from the original structure, making each an individual space. Clever combinations of old and new—antiques alongside specially commissioned modern art pieces—give it an unusual but welcoming atmosphere. A massive kauri pine counter dominates the front lounge, where you can read the papers or use the guest computer.