The DNA: When the architects found a derelict, former courthouse and women’s prison built in 1896 in Berlin’s Charlottenburg district, they sensed that “it was a chance to create an oasis where people can deliberately go to calm down.” The old courthouse, now dominated by Amtsalon, the art and culture hub that hosts temporary exhibitions, welcomes Wilmina visitors into the mailroom-turned-reception area. Beyond it lie swathes of lush vegetation, including the central courtyard previously covered in asphalt. Found in what once served as the gated prison lock yard is Lovis, the restaurant featuring Austrian hardwood, a bar tattooed in Japanese ink, and expansive windows. The former prison now houses Wilmina‘s guestrooms, spawned by the merging of two or three cells, that are accessed by the hefty original doors. 

Seen: Hospitality Design

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 44 rooms & suites (11-78m2) (118-840 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2022 • architecture & interior design: Grüntuch Ernst Architects ❌ no parking available • pets allowed on request • 24-hour front desk • wheelchair accessible