25hours Hotel Hamburg No.1

Class: Comfort

Style: Cutting edge

Rooms: 128

Some sectors of Germany’s hotel world, especially outside Berlin, seem hopelessly wedded to a rather outdated concept of luxury, of the sort that results when old-world opulence crosses over into self-parody. Fortunately Hamburg is not so afflicted. There’s the Gastwerk, an industrial space refitted for lower-Manhattan-style loft living; and now, from Gastwerk’s creator Kai Hollmann, there’s 25 Hours, a Sixties office block converted into an exceedingly fashionable, slightly Mod, and thoroughly modern boutique hotel.

Inside one finds a touch of the Jetsons-worshipping Fifties-futuristic, with Eames- or Saarinen-esque shell chairs and retro bubble-shaped televisions, as well as a generous helping of high-design post-minimalism. The lobby looks more like a daring retail space, featureless white walls anchored by a reception desk covered in polished aluminum, topped by a bowl of Gummi bears to soften the seriousness.

Guest rooms are individually decorated by a number of up-and-coming designers; in four sizes, M, L, and XL plus an XL family room, they’re cut from the same retro/modern cloth as the public spaces. Those expecting Italian marble baths or hefty antique wardrobes are in the wrong place, while those who appreciate a little white lacquer or some Op-inspired wallpaper are in heaven.

Lots of open space encourages mingling amongst the young and stylish clientele, and it’s clear that this hotel is aimed at a market that’s got more flash than cash; vending machines take the place of traditional room service, and the bar is open all day. The "25hours esszimmer" (restaurant) serves a mix of Mediterranean and regional fare. The lounge is something of a communal living room, complete with internet terminals, a modest library and nightly movies. Not necessarily the place for five-star fanatics to begin a design education, but for those seeking style on a budget, it’s just about perfect.