ICONIC AWARDS 2014

The idea that hostels are always loud and multicoloured has proven untrue by the new Generator in Berlin-Mitte. Located on Oranienburger Strasse, the hostel leaves a powerful impression with its bold and designed coolness. Ester Bruzkus Architects were distinct in their design decisions and followed clear design standards: old vs. new, bright vs. dim, rough vs. sleek. The interiors are carefully planned and well thought out. Cement tiles as a local element add a unique Berlin character, the lighting concept from .PSLAB gives each room a special focus. The attention to the detail and material may be found all around: mastic asphalt and simple design furniture in the breakfast room, rough wood panelling and open ceilings, raw copper panels (a surprise discovery during construction work in the basement) contrasted with black walls under a mirrored ceiling in the bar area – these qualities contribute to the contemporary but unpretentious atmosphere of the hostel and answers the cool attitude of today ́s youth more than any brightly coloured cliché.