Citadines is a brand of the Ascott Limited Group, one of the world’s leading international lodging owner operators. Located at Olivaer Platz, the hotel is ideally situated in the heart of Berlin, near the vibrant Kurfürstendamm shopping street and close to public transport links.
Having originally opened in 2001, the hotel required a significant update to offer a fresh, contemporary design that resonates with the brand’s identity and Berlin’s distinct urban culture. The renovation covered all aspects of the hotel, including the 116 apartments, which comprise of 109 studios and 7 one-bedroom units. Two of the studios on the ground floor have been specially designed for accessibility, ensuring the property caters for all guests. Each apartment is fully equipped with kitchenettes, offering guests the flexibility of a self-sufficient stay.
The redesigned interiors mirror the common design philosophy across Citadines hotels worldwide, where local elements are fused with a modern aesthetic to create a sense of place, while maintaining a consistent brand feel. Incorporating local architectural inspiration, the redesigned interiors reflect the elegance and minimalist design style that Berlin is known for, and feature neutral tones with sleek, black accents for contrast. The renovation drew influence from the façade of the nearby Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche, an iconic symbol of the city, with its motifs appearing subtly in the hotel’s artwork and graphics. This integration of historical elements helps ground the modern design within the context of Berlin’s rich heritage.
Public spaces such as the lobby, breakfast lounge and fitness room were also revamped to match the new design ethos. Reviving the existing terrace allows guests to enjoy the outdoors within an urban setting, enhancing the overall experience.
rpa:group was appointed to provide full Project and Cost Management services for the extensive renovation of Citadines Kurfürstendamm. This involved developing a comprehensive master program to guide the implementation, execution, and completion of the project. Key responsibilities included coordinating with clients, interior designers, general contractors, and various specialized consultants to ensure a timely and budget-conscious delivery.
A major challenge was maintaining hotel operations throughout the renovation, which required meticulous planning and phasing of construction work. rpa:group implemented detailed schedules and safety protocols to minimize guest disruption, while ensuring smooth progress. Services included cost control, resource allocation, and risk mitigation, anticipating potential delays and proactively resolving issues. Through precise supervision, effective communication, and technical expertise, rpa:group ensured the project met high-quality standards, delivering a successful transformation on time and within budget.
The overall look of the renovated Citadines Kurfürstendamm is elegant, spacious, and welcoming, with contemporary furnishings and refined touches that reflect the surrounding Berlin environment. This thoughtful redesign balances functionality with artistic flair, creating a stylish and comfortable retreat for both short and long-term guests.
