Behind an almost inconspicuous gate in a historic building, a world of its own opens up in the middle of the bustling Kantstrasse in Berlin-Charlottenburg. A garden and courtyards that merge into one another stretch out between high walls, exuding a wonderful sense of calm. This place has undergone an incredible transformation and, after years of renovation work, was transformed from a historic prison into a modern hotel.
The term "behind Swedish curtains" has a double meaning here. In the past, the steel used for prison windows mostly came from Sweden, as it was considered particularly hard and escape-proof. Parts of these "curtains" have been preserved in front of the windows after the renovation and are a reminder of the previous life. The new, softly falling fabric curtains, on the other hand, represent the new use of the building. The aim of the renovation was to respect the original architecture and at the same time to integrate a new brightness, openness and warmth. A successful synthesis of old and new that will amaze you. Enlarged windows, lush mirrors, floating glass lamps, floral prints, muted colors, natural materials and plants provide new views, elegance and naturalness.
The modern steel structure in the stairwell supports the new glass roof over the atrium. The old cell doors serve as room doors and the cozy lobby was built into the former meeting room. The old office salon is used for contemporary exhibitions and the "Lovis" restaurant is a culinary revelation not only for hotel guests. Head chef Sophia Rudolph and her team cook traditional dishes that they reinterpret. Seasonal, regional and product-focused. In summer, you can sit on the roof terrace with a view over the roofs of Berlin and enjoy the freedom of this city.
Doppelzimmer | from150 € |
Suite | from314 € |
ArchitectureThe hotel has won both the DA Berlin Architecture Prize 2021 and the DGNB Prize 2022 for Sustainable Construction. The hosts are Almut and Armand Grüntuch-Ernst, an architect couple from Berlin. The hotel is a former women's prison in Charlottenburg, built in 1896 by the architects Adolf Brückner and Eduard Fürstenau. In 1985, the prison was closed and served only as an archive. From 2010, the complex even stood empty for several years. The biggest challenge during the long-term renovation was the preservation of historical monuments and the new lighting architecture to free the building from the narrowness that was once intended. The roof was glazed for this purpose and the windows were extensively enlarged. One cell was preserved in its original form and serves as a mini-museum.
FoodSeasonal food from regional and organic farming with a focus on vegetables. Food waste is processed and composted as much as possible. All drinks are only offered in glass bottles. There is a water filter system in the restaurant and guest lounge. The breakfast buffet is completely packaging-free.
EnvironmentPlastic is largely avoided. Cleaning is done using biological means and a composting machine and a solar system are planned.
Well-BeingYoga, massages, gym, pool and sauna.
2021
2022
Doppelzimmer | from150 € |
Suite | from314 € |
The Wilmina is centrally located in Berlin and can be easily reached using various public transport options. The Amtsgerichtsplatz bus stop is just 150 metres from the hotel, the nearest S-Bahn stop Charlottenburg is around 500 metres away and the nearest underground station Sophie-Charlotte-Platz is around 600 metres away. From the main train station, it takes around 10 minutes to get to Charlottenburg by S-Bahn. As there are no on-site parking spaces, we recommend using public transport. The exact address can be found on the website.
...do not miss a new accommodation
...receive great offers