Lulu Berlin

Reviewed by Emily McDonnell

A hygge hotel with a unique combination of contemporary design and bright colours: this 1850s Berlin building is anything but bland

Type:

Hotel

Costs:

From €95

Sleeps:

2+ (81 rooms and suites)

Where?

Central Berlin

What?

In Berlin’s former red-light district, you find this simple-yet-chic 1850s building. But don’t let the façade trick you into thinking there’s simplicity within. Self-described as a unique combination of contemporary design, Nordic sleekness, and Balinese spirit for those seeking the perfect urban refuge in a truly hygge environment, Lulu is anything but bland. Rooms feature high ceilings, bright bed throws and bold artwork. Some have standalone tubs and others have swings, each is unique.

Owners Marc and Sandra began the Guldsmeden group in Denmark in the 1990s, frustrated that they struggled to find unique, comfortable and stylish places to stay that also prioritised sustainability. Lulu is their only hotel in Germany; the pair knew they wanted to create a hotel in Berlin, a city they both love. After a long search for an alt-bau (of over three years), they discovered this building and fell head-over-heels. Now, the restaurant is bustling, the courtyard calming and the beds oh-so inviting - what more could you ask for?

Why?

I fell in love because...

The building is impressive, and has decadent interiors that are wonderfully unique
The quiet courtyard is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Berlin

You must...

Visit Gleisdreieck park, and soak up the energy of Berlin
Take a stroll through the neighbourhood; this area is full of interesting history, as it was one of the areas the Berlin wall cut through

You might dislike...

The elevator doesn’t service all floors (and only stops on half floors - it’s the old building design)
Also due to the old building, bathrooms aren’t that spacious

Who?

Introducing Marc and Sandra!

“We created a hotel we would love to stay in, and found a team to help us run it who share the same values of providing guests with an exceptional experience.”

They love…

“Our highlight is the courtyard: it’s a nice little oasis in the city. The location of the hotel is great, too, it’s really central but not touristy.”

Marc and Sandra’s insider tips

Take a stroll along the Landwehr Canal, it’s a great way to experience the city in the same way a lot of Berliners do.
Explore the boutique store along our street (Potsdamer Straße), there are some really talented individuals selling their crafts.
Enjoy a long, lazy, organic breakfast - the selection is incredible. All food is locally sourced but Nordic inspired.
If you want a trip out of the city, head to Grunewald, a lush forest great for a walk, where there’s an old Cold War spy tower (Teufelsberg) which is now an outdoor art gallery.

What people
are saying.

“Would 100% recommend! It's so cosy, the food is great, and it really does feel very modern Danish.”

Christian

“I was lucky enough to stay in such a wonderful place, that was probably the most gorgeous place I ever been to!”

Ixenia

The essentials.

Sleeping arrangements: There are 11 different room categories, ranging from standard rooms to family-style lofts and suites that accommodate up to five people.
Bathroom set up: All rooms and suites have ensure bathrooms (bath and/or shower) and toiletries are provided. Slippers can be borrowed on request.
Food:
For families: Kids are welcome, and toys can be provided on request.
On-site equipment: There are board games, books, magazines, radios and candles that can be provided on request, as well as chargers, extension cords and adaptors for electronics.
Optional extras: Lulu Berlin can rent regular bikes, e-bikes and a family bike to guests.
Help: There’s a reception team who are around to help you with anything you need.
Remember to pack: Nothing - just bring yourself!
Pets: Dogs are allowed (€15 per pup per day).
Sustainability: There’s a huge focus on sustainability, and building materials were all ethically sourced. In the restaurant, food is, as much as possible, local and organic.

Where?

Lulu Berlin is located in central Berlin, near Gleisdreieck Park.

‍You can easily drive, and there’s private parking (book in advance) as well as on-street parking.

The closest station is U Kurfürstenstr., easily accessible from Berlin’s central station.