Dreimeta was given the challenging task of transporting the striking, historic interior of the Telegraphenamt building into the 21st century. The goal was to honor the origins and history of the space, while creating an eclectic and surprising interior that would captivate guests and spark conversations.

The goal in the choice of materials and finishes for the project was to complement the features of the existing building. Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by inviting lounge seating, a bespoke wooden reception counter and a sushi bar. A decorative partition wall made of glass and black metal framing, complemented by floor-to-ceiling height curtains, marks the transition point from the lobby to the bar. The space is defined by a brick barrel-vaulted ceiling and herringbone-patterned hardwood flooring. Wrapped around two central columns, the bar’s finishes include a marble countertop, a luxurious leather armrest, geometric wooden wall cladding and – a visual highlight – a wooden shelf with rounded edges floating above the bar counter, suspended from the ceiling with steel cables. The warm finishes are complemented by soft, cozy lounge furniture and retro brass light fixtures.

Beyond the bar, guests are drawn into one of the highlights of the hotel – “Root” restaurant. Located in one of the two former courtyards, it is characterized by an elaborate glass roof that spans the entire space. The design motif of an orangery is emphasized by lush plants scattered throughout the interior. A variety of seating areas spread out over multiple levels differentiate themselves through various types of flooring, upholstery, and furnishings. Despite the enormous size and imposing height of the room, the design successfully creates a cozy network of unique areas within the space. Above the diners, custom-painted globe pendant lights create the illusion of a starry nightscape hovering below the glass canopy.

To get to the hotel rooms, guests can use one of two new elevators – clad in wood and brass extruded metal panels. Throughout the hotel corridors, guests can examine historic pictures and search for their room number, noted on a wall sconce designed to resemble the pneumatic tube containers. In the rooms, brick walls and barrel-vaulted brick ceilings were exposed and extensively restored; industrial beams became a design feature, and the large windows were replaced throughout the entire building. Contrasting these rough, industrial elements is a stunning hardwood floor in a herringbone pattern, which adds a touch of luxury to the design. Intricate and detailed design solutions for the bespoke furniture contribute to the understated style of the space.

The result is a light-hearted, eclectic mix of stylistic elements that pay tribute to the building’s extensive history, while also marking the beginning of a new era as the hotel Telegraphenamt.