The independent lifestyle hotel brand The Dean, known for its characterful, design-forward hotels, will make its German debut with the opening of The Dean Berlin in February 2026. The 81-room property marks the brand’s first venture outside Ireland, introducing its playful, unconventional sensibility to Charlottenburg, one of Berlin’s most established and creatively charged neighbourhoods.
Designed by Rachael Gowdridge, The Dean Berlin reimagines a late-19th-century building through an expressive, layered approach that pairs historic fabric with contemporary attitude. Original architectural features are offset by bold colour palettes, sculptural lighting, and avant-garde references, resulting in interiors that echo Berlin’s artistic confidence while retaining a sense of refinement.
The hotel’s 81 guestrooms showcase The Dean’s distinctive blend of modern comfort and considered design. Each room is conceived as a journey of contrasts, beginning with a richly hued entrance vestibule in deep red that creates an immersive sense of arrival before opening into the main sleeping space. Soft mauve tones on restored panelling, layered fabrics, and full-height drapery bring warmth and intimacy, while bespoke furnishings introduce unexpected combinations of materials, textures, and patterns. Bathrooms balance preserved tilework with confident contemporary accents, delivering spaces that feel both precise and expressive. Guests will also enjoy exclusive in-room bath products developed in collaboration with cult fragrance house DS & Durga.
Cosy Rooms and Doubles are designed to make the most of their footprint, combining efficient layouts with tactile finishes, while larger room categories offer separate living areas intended for relaxation and longer stays. Balcony Rooms and Suites extend the experience outdoors with private terraces, paired with interiors that prioritise both comfort and functionality. Across all categories, thoughtful details—intelligent storage, atmospheric lighting, and design-led amenities—create urban sanctuaries that feel stylish yet relaxed.
Throughout the hotel, a deliberate dialogue between past and present defines the interiors. Patinated plaster walls, original mosaic flooring, and restored timber elements are set against expressive joinery and crisply articulated thresholds. This interplay of raw and refined materials runs through every space, giving the hotel an aesthetic that feels grounded, self-assured, and subtly provocative.
At the centre of the property is Benedict, an all-day bakery, restaurant, and bar serving an internationally inspired menu with a strong emphasis on house-made breakfast and brunch offerings. Open from early morning through late evening, Benedict is designed as a social anchor for both guests and locals, reflecting The Dean’s belief that memorable hospitality begins with genuine service and a welcoming atmosphere.
