Berlin’s legendary Hotel Zoo was for decades the favorite accommodation for international movie stars when visiting the German capital. In fact, from 1950-1970, it was the official VIP hotel for the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), where stars such as Grace Kelly, Romy Schneider, Gina Lollobrigida and Sophia Loren used to stay. After a two-year renovation, the beautiful hotel recovers its original splendor and exquisite elegance.
Designer Dayna Lee of the American firm Powerstrip–in collaboration with Belgian artist Martin Margiela–took on the task of remodeling this magnificent 19th-century building. They carried out a meticulous decorative work that combines textures and colors with classic or modern styles in all the hotel´s lounges. Review our selection of luxury hotels and international destinations.
As you enter, a fabulous Diane von Furstenberg design captures the attention of the guests. It is a stunning emerald green carpet decorated with large images of leopards that cover the long, elegant corridor leading to the majestic living room, which is the heart of the hotel. This splendid space shines with its exquisite blend of styles and elegant furnishings. Guests will be immersed in total luxury with Baxter leather armchairs, George Smith red velvet sofas and comfortable Tom Dixton seats resting on a beautiful walnut floor. The 20-foot ceiling and the immense windows are in perfect harmony with the monumental polished wood double doors that dominate the main hall. This great hall also features a 15-foot long fireplace and striking ceiling moldings shaped like lilies that converge in a breathtaking chandelier reminiscent of the inverted structures created by Salvador Dalí.
The new facility has 131 rooms and 14 suites, including the 753-square feet Ku’Damm suite, which boasts a living room with George Smith furniture, fireplace, state of the art bathrooms, as well as an idyllic private balcony with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Kurfürstendamm Avenue.
The hotel provides different spaces to meet— and exceed— the most varied culinary tastes. Grace restaurant shows character, not only for its elegance, but also for its fantastic menu with an exciting fusion of Asian and Italian food with hints of German cuisine. Also beautifully restructured is the classic Grace Bar, a meeting place for intellectuals and movie stars during the early 20th century, who came to enjoy the most exquisite cocktails while rubbing shoulders with Berlin’s elite. Designer Dayna Lee chose deep colors, with wooden tables and green upholstered leather chairs, which evoke a sense of classic sophistication. The hotel also offers royal comfort in the winter courtyard, and in the summer of 2015 the rooftop bar will make its very anticipated debut.
The Zoo Hotel in Berlin, a historic gem of international hospitality stands again as one more reason to visit the beautiful German capital. ■
