Spent a Saturday night at the AC Marriott Birmingham with my partner and came away with mixed feelings. The hotel has a lot going for it on paper - a great location, a genuinely comfortable bed, and a clean, contemporary feel throughout. The air conditioning was a godsend given the current heatwave, and the rooms look sharp with their modern aesthetic.
That said, the design choices that make the place look good are the same ones that made for a poor night's sleep. The wooden floors, while stylish, do absolutely nothing to absorb sound - every footstep from the room above came through loud and clear. We could also hear music playing from a neighbouring room, suggesting the sound insulation between rooms leaves something to be desired. To top it off, the fridge cycled noisily through the night. Altogether, not the restful sleep you're hoping for after a weekend away.
Minor gripes: the shower was passable but unremarkable, and the blackout curtain didn't quite reach the edge, letting in a sliver of light.
If you're after a stylish spot for drinks and a late check-out brunch, it fits the bill. If a good night's sleep is the priority, you might want to look elsewhere - or at least request a high floor and pack earplugs.