Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, has seen a significant change in its hospitality industry in recent years, particularly in the area of apart-hotels. Offering the comforts of home with the luxury of hotel services, these accommodations have thrived despite strict regulations on short-term rentals.
Let’s explore how apart-hotels in Berlin have flourished, focusing on key players, and also learn how Vienna can leverage Berlin’s experience to navigate its regulatory landscape effectively.
Berlin’s thriving apart-hotels
Capri by Fraser
Capri by Fraser is a prime example of a successful apart-hotel with 143 units in Berlin. Located in the heart of the city, it caters to both business and leisure travellers. Its modern design, coupled with state-of-the-art amenities, provides a seamless blend of comfort and convenience. Key features include fully equipped kitchenettes, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a spacious work desk in each unit, and a 24-hour gym. The hotel’s strategic location near Berlin’s cultural and business hubs makes it a top choice for visitors seeking easy access to the city’s attractions.
Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin
Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin is renowned for its spacious and stylish apartments. Each of the 145 spacious accommodation options is designed to provide a home-like atmosphere with separate living and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, and laundry facilities. Adina’s success can be attributed to its commitment to offering personalized services and maintaining high standards of comfort. The hotel’s facilities, such as an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant, cater to both relaxation and recreation, making it a favourite among long-stay guests.
AMANO Home
AMANO Home offers a unique blend of contemporary design and urban living. Located in the bustling district of Mitte, this apart-hotel with 34 units appeals to younger travellers and digital nomads seeking a stylish yet affordable stay. Each apartment is tastefully decorated, featuring modern amenities and chic furnishings, including fully equipped kitchens, king-size beds, yoga mats, and dumbbells. AMANO Home’s focus on design and location creates a vibrant atmosphere that resonates with the city’s dynamic culture. Additionally, its proximity to public transportation makes it an ideal base for exploring Berlin.
The Circus Apartments
The Circus Apartments stand out for their commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Situated in the trendy neighbourhood of Mitte, this hotel offers eco-friendly accommodations with a focus on local experiences. Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, premium mattresses, dedicated workspaces, free and fast WiFi, smart TVs, in-house washing and drying facilities, yoga mats on request, and daily cards for John Reed Fitness Clubs.
The Circus Apartments also host community events and workshops, fostering a sense of belonging among guests and locals alike. This emphasis on sustainability and community has earned it a loyal clientele and a reputation as a socially responsible choice in Berlin’s hospitality scene.
The Mandala Hotel
The Mandala Hotel combines luxury and elegance with the convenience of apartment living. Known for its sophisticated design and exceptional service, The Mandala Hotel attracts discerning travellers seeking a high-end experience. 158 studios and suites in ten categories, ranging from 40 sqm to 200 sqm, feature spacious living areas, gourmet kitchens, and luxurious bathrooms. The hotel’s facilities, including a Michelin-starred restaurant and award-winning spa, ensure that guests enjoy a truly indulgent stay. The Mandala Hotel’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail sets it apart as a leader in Berlin’s apartment hotel market.
Learning from Berlin: strategies for Vienna
Vienna, like Berlin, is grappling with regulations to limit short-term rentals. These regulations aim to address concerns such as housing shortages and community disruption. However, they also pose challenges for property owners and hospitality businesses. By examining Berlin’s success with apart-hotels, Vienna can adopt strategies to thrive under similar conditions.
Emphasising compliance
One of the key reasons for the success of apart-hotels in Berlin is their ability to comply with regulations while maintaining high-quality standards of living. Vienna can encourage the development of apart-hotels that operate within the legal framework. By prioritising compliance, Vienna can ensure the sustainability of its hospitality industry and foster trust among travellers and residents alike.
Promoting unique experiences
Berlin’s apart-hotels differentiate themselves by offering unique and personalised experiences. Vienna can adopt a similar approach by promoting accommodations that highlight local culture, design, and sustainability. Creating distinct and memorable experiences will attract a diverse range of travellers and set Vienna apart as a destination that values authenticity and innovation.
Leveraging location and accessibility
The success of Berlin’s apart-hotels is also attributed to their strategic locations and accessibility to key attractions and business centres. Vienna can benefit from identifying and developing properties in prime areas that offer convenience and easy access to public transportation. By focusing on location and accessibility, Vienna can enhance the appeal of its serviced apartments and cater to the needs of modern travellers.
Encouraging collaboration and innovation
Collaboration among industry stakeholders and innovation in service delivery can drive the growth of Vienna’s apart-hotels. By fostering partnerships between property owners, developers, and local businesses, Vienna can create a supportive ecosystem that encourages innovation and growth. This collaborative approach can lead to the development of new concepts and offerings that align with the evolving preferences of travellers.
Summarising, the success of Berlin’s apart-hotels offers valuable lessons for Vienna, which is currently facing similar challenges. At Dwell Bell, we strive to increase the profitability of our properties by keeping our finger on the pulse of global trends and meeting the needs of our guests, while taking into account legal restrictions and new regulations. We are open to new collaborations and look forward to exciting new projects.