From the moment I checked in, it was evident that this place was something special. Opened in June 2023, this aparthotel is part of the renowned Locke brand, owned by edyn. Known for its design-led serviced apartments, Locke at East Side Gallery didn’t disappoint.
Nestled in the vibrant Friedrichshain district, the hotel is right next to the iconic East Side Gallery—a preserved section of the Berlin Wall adorned with colourful murals. The location is ideal for history buffs and art lovers alike. The hotel offers 176 stylish studio apartments, each one designed with natural textures, raw concrete walls, and pops of playful colour. My apartment even had a private balcony with a stunning view of the River Spree.
Inside, the hotel has a sleek, industrial-chic aesthetic. The ground floor is a social hub, with a reception area that seamlessly blends into a bar, coffee shop, and co-working space. This open-plan design encouraged interaction and provided a welcoming atmosphere. My apartment was equipped with a fully functional kitchen, complete with an electric stove, oven, large fridge, washing machine, and dishwasher. The living area had a comfortable sofa, a smart TV, and a dining table that doubled as a workstation.
The bedroom was a sanctuary, designed to be both calming and inspiring. The palette of wood, concrete, and textured glass was enlivened by pastel-coloured soft furnishings. The bed was adorned with a custom suede and rattan headboard, and the room included thoughtful touches like vases of dried flowers and arty objects. The bathroom was equally well-appointed, featuring a walk-in shower and bespoke Kinsey Apothecary toiletries.
The range of amenities at Locke at East Side Gallery is impressive. There’s a fitness centre, complimentary high-speed WiFi, and a communal laundry area. For business travellers, there are dedicated meeting and event spaces, including an 80m² event suite with panoramic views of Berlin and the River Spree. This space is equipped with cutting-edge audio-visual technology, making it ideal for corporate gatherings or private celebrations.
Food and drink options at the hotel were equally impressive. The ground floor housed the Anima restaurant and bar, which served a small but expertly curated menu. I enjoyed a variety of dishes and cocktails while taking in the views of the River Spree.
Locke at East Side Gallery truly caters to a wide range of travellers, from business professionals seeking a stylish and functional base in Berlin to leisure travellers looking to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Its unique blend of design, comfort, and location makes it a standout choice for anyone visiting Berlin.