With an intense program of art and design exhibits as well as a huge spa with steam room, state-of-the-art gyms and delicious healthy cuisine, music complements the services of this temporary refuge for creativity that combines the qualities of a hotel designed for world nomads, who cannot renounce their needs, with the requirements of the most visionary and creative guests. Because staying in a hotel, even just for one night, is an exceptional experience which must speak the language of comfort and well-being. Like any self-respecting new hotel, nhow is equipped with the most innovative technologies: flat screen TVs that disappear behind curtains, shower enclosures with changing colored lights, eco-treated wood flooring, sensor lighting and, of course, wi-fi connections in all the rooms. "Elevate Your Stay" is the hotel's slogan. Located in the heart of the city within walking distance of Berlin's major tourist and cultural attractions (Sony Centre, Television Tower and Red Town Hall), nhow wants to position itself as one of the most glamorous venues for international concerts and events.
The new nhow Berlin is not the first total-look hotel by Karim Rashid. Years ago, the Egyptian-born designer designed the Athens Semiramis – the pride of Yes Hotels, the chain owned by Greek collector Dakis Joannou. Regarding total-look, Rashid said: "My artistic vision is not possible without an overall concept and an understanding of technology, materials, fabrics, scenography – without neglecting the" basic needs "of those who experience space in a sensual and emotional way. Design surrounds us and seeks to involve us on all levels; design re-imagines the world in which we live to discover new languages. I often wonder if the real world is itself a seductive, connective and inspirational experience, and if it is as flexible to our needs as the digital world. What I wanted to do at nohw Berlin was to create a space where the all the digital information of my aesthetic world could coexist."
Creating excellence even with limited budgets is one of the many challenges that animates Karim Rashid's entire career. Nhow Berlin is a singular project whose 304 rooms, available at rates ranging from 170 to 275 euro per night, will be revealed to the public on November 15. There will be parties and music whose decibels will reach the entire city from the waters of the Spree. Maria Cristina Didero
