Highlife and Islington – by Out of Office Lifestyle

First Impressions

When I first walked up to Highlife and Islington – by Out of Office Lifestyle, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from the name alone. But this apartment-style property on College Cross immediately caught my attention — it’s one of those places that feels more like staying at a stylish friend’s place than a typical hotel. The building itself has that classic London charm you’d hope for in Islington, and you can tell right away that someone put real thought into making this feel special.

The Neighborhood Feel

What I love about this spot is how it sits right in the heart of one of North London’s most interesting areas. You’re literally a few minutes’ walk from Angel tube station, which means you can get anywhere in the city without the hassle. But honestly, you might not want to leave the neighborhood — there are these fantastic little cafes along Upper Street, and the Regent’s Canal is just around the corner if you fancy a proper London walk. It’s the kind of area where locals actually live, not just where tourists pass through.

The Space Itself

The room setup here is what really sets this place apart from your standard hotel experience. Each space comes with a proper kitchenette, which I found incredibly useful — you know how expensive London can get for every meal out. The design feels contemporary but not cold, if that makes sense. There’s this nice balance between having all the modern amenities you’d expect from a four-star place while still feeling like a real living space rather than just a place to sleep.

What Makes It Work

I think what impressed me most was how they’ve managed to create something that feels both professional and personal. The staff clearly know what they’re doing — everything runs smoothly — but there’s none of that overly formal hotel atmosphere that can sometimes feel a bit much. The whole “Out of Office Lifestyle” concept actually makes sense when you’re there; it’s designed for people who want to live a bit, not just pass through. The rating of 9 out of 10 from other guests starts to make sense pretty quickly.

Why Guests Love It

After spending time here, I can see why this place has developed such a following. It’s that rare combination of being in a brilliant location without feeling touristy, offering proper independence with the kitchen setup, while still having that reassuring sense that someone’s looking after the details. You’re getting the best of Islington right outside your door, but you’ve also got your own space to retreat to when London gets a bit overwhelming — which, let’s be honest, it sometimes does. For anyone wanting to experience London more like a temporary resident than a visitor, this place really delivers on that promise.