Arrived for 2 day visit, but extended the stay by 5 more days because I thoroughly enjoyed the cozy yet modern hotel and exceptionally hospitable staff! Upon arrival, I checked in and went to assigned room where I found was not cleaned. Went back downstairs where, Quinn, immediately apologized and made amends by upgrading us and offering meal vouchers. The front desk as well as the Lead Bellman, Linh, were very thoughtful and welcoming. The hotel is nicely situated where everything was within walking distance. Loved the boutique unique college dorm feel and yet contemporary interior design. I plan on going back again!

This is a cute & quirky place right near UC Berkeley. It is super close to everything. Walking distance to "Cream" and tons of other great shops and restaurants. Not to mention the dorms of the student we were visiting and all the grit and chaos and homelessness that is Berkeley. (Including a puppy whose homeless owner had trained it to go potty over the grate next to which they spent their days!!)
Self-Parking was $16 - unless you drive a hybrid, in which case they waive the fee - but the spots were all full so we had to valet, which they EFFORTLESSLY gave us for the same price because there were not spots.
Check in was effortless as well.
We asked for a roll-away and one was quickly brought to our room.
The service is quite good - we had a plumbing issue and someone was at our door in less than 5 minutes!
The negatives? Some of the rooms are REALLY small and the prices vary a LOT by time of year. In the summer when all the students are arriving, the prices seemed quite high for what it was... in the winter when no one was there (kids coming back from winter break) it was only $140 a night, MUCH more worth it!
No air conditioning and you wouldn't think you would need it... but sometimes you DO!
Elevators were SMALL and SLOW.
But it was nice to stay in a small boutique-style hotel with personality and character for a change.

I had a great room, very large with a super comfy bed. Yes there can be noise but this area is a very high-density area so that is to be expected -- it seems like the frat guys set off fire alarms every night. I really liked the ambience of the hotel and of course the location is excellent. Highly recommended!

It's the people at the Durant that push it into the great category. Rooms are comfortable, excellent beds. But the whole staff are welcoming and genial. Several people make a point of greeting us by name.