Telegraphenamt Hotel

Berlin, Germany

A restored telegraph office in the heart of Germany‘s capital has made splendid use of the grand, lofty proportions of its early 20th-century architecture to create a stunning open space dedicated to comfort

One look and you are struck by the sheer grandeur of Hotel Telegraphenamt. The restored telegraph office in Berlin’s central Mitte district offers an escape from the buzz of its neighbouring attractions – built between 1910 and 1916, it was once the largest communications centre in Europe. Behind a neo-baroque stone front, you are greeted by an open-plan lobby with historic columns, foliage and modern art from German artists, plus the odd quirk – like the large pink octopus.

A seamless blend of old and new in design, the interior reflects the aesthetic of Berlin in the 1920s, all exposed brick and capped ceilings, with historic elements such as the original telegraph shoots (it is even home to one of the largest pneumatic mail systems in Europe, located in the basement) and a traditional brass lift. The 97 rooms and maisonettes showcase art deco design components, such as glass capsule light fittings, placed next to original imagery from the building’s past. Room categories span from ‘cosy’ to ‘roomy’ to the two-floored ‘maisonette’ – but all come with super-king beds and elegant bathrooms finished with grey granite and marble.

Take advantage of the state-ofthe- art gym, sauna and spa, which has just started a new partnership with award-winning dermatologist Dr Emi Arpa. And, when it comes to exploring the city, you don’t even have to leave the building, with views of the Monbijoupark, Berlin Cathedral, the Pergamon Museum, the Rotes Rathaus and the iconic TV Tower from your window. When you do venture out, the Sprüth Magers gallery, Fotografiska museum, Hackesche Höfe courtyards and the River Spree are a mere walk away.

Return from a day of adventure to freshly made sushi at resident restaurant Root Bistro, from bluefin tuna nigiri sushi rolls to the crunchy signature roll of shrimps, cheese and panko – served beautifully tiered on top of ice.

Words by Isabella Machin. Doubles from £220. +49 (0)30 994 0590, telegraphenamt.com