With its lack of handsome lobby, uniformed flunkeys or even a sign over the door, Soho House is the antithesis of Berlin’s imposing five-star hotels. Yet it is a five-star animal, albeit of a different breed.

This is the latest enterprise of the media luvvies’ empire, now owned by Richard Caring, which started as a private club in London. Part of its appeal is that guests become members for the duration of their stay, admitted to the  fabulous 7th-floor bar, lounge and restaurant, and the rooftop pool and bar above.

The rooms in this 1928-built department store — once Jewish-owned — are fabulous and in six sizes. Mine, one of the largest at 118 sq m, was the size of an apartment, with a vast sitting area, full-width curved window with panoramic views, and the largest bed I’ve ever slept in. The bathroom, with double sinks and walk-in shower that would accommodate 16, was complemented by a free-standing tub in the bedroom. Toiletries are by Cowshed, which run a spa in the basement, and most rooms have a vintage record player and vinyl records. The lights can be tricky, so demand a demo on arrival.

Breakfast is a delight, with unusual dishes like avocado on toast, properly-made porridge with roast bananas, a full panoply of egg dishes and fresh-pressed juice.

Way east of the centre, Soho House is a bus ride (or a 20-minute walk) from museums and designer emporia, but the lively restaurants of Hackecher Markt, edgy boutiques of Munzstrasse and the Neue Synagogue are all an easy stroll.

RATES: from ¤100
TEL: 00 49 304050 44