Built as a private residence for architect Alfred Messel in 1891, the hotel was originally opened in 1911. In the 20s, the Hotel Zoo was the hotspot for Berlin’s Charleston-dancing bohème. From the 50s to the 70s, it was the official Berlinale VIP hotel, hosting all big stars. Today, after complex renovation, guests are not greeted by a red carpet but by a jade-green catwalk with leopard print designed by Diane von Fürstenberg. American designer Dayna Lee created the atmosphere of a New York town house, highlighting the old substance of the building, such as the brick walls, hand-made stucco and the newly created living room in the former courtyard. The rooms and suites are individually designed and combine historic elements with contemporary furnishings and exotic details, reminding of travel souvenirs from far away places.
Interior Design
Baxter, Tom Dixon, George Smith, Designercarpets
Design
Dayna Lee/Power- strip Studio, www.powerstripstudio. com
