The Hotel de Rome, in a neoclassical 19th-century building on the historic Bebelplatz in the heart of East Berlin was once the headquarters of the esteemed Dresden Bank. Stepping through the stone entranceway, with its grand Atelier Prométhée magenta urns and Olivia Steele’s neon birdcage and large black velvet sofas – guarantees an immediate sense of place. Many of the building’s original details—marble columns, skylights, an intricate iron staircase—have been retained. The rest of the hotel is in neutral browns, creams and whites. The refreshingly designed 145 bedrooms and 37 suites have well-crafted modern furniture, understated artwork, patterned carpets and comfortable beds.

In-room amenities include long work desks and espresso machines. Bathrooms have heated tiled floors, walk-in showers and baths, as well as quality products. For added fun, book the oak-panelled suite in the old bank directors’ offices, or the Renaissance Room – the former meeting room for the bank's top executives, or better still, the colourful Bebel Suite with wraparound terrace, hardwood floors and library of over a thousand books. On the ground floor, La Banca restaurant serves classic Italian and Mediterranean food. In summer, the roof-top terrace offers excellent views of Berlin's historic city centre. Housed in the former jewel vault, the De Rome Spa has golden mosaics and black marble tiles – as well as a welcoming pool.