Hotel De Rome

Rocco Forte’s Hotel de Rome just opened in Oct. 2006, but is held in the original architecture which housed the head office of the Dresdner Bank from the building’s construction in 1889 until 1945—designed by government dubbed ‘master’ architect, Ludwig Heim.

The ornate and classical design of the original building has been given a contemporary twist by designer Tommaso Ziffer, who also designed the Hotel de Russie in Rome.

The hotel has 146 large bedrooms, including 72 classic rooms, 29 deluxe rooms, 32 junior suites, nine executive suites, three deluxe suites and a 105 m2 presidential suite—which boasts a full-length terrace overlooking Bebelplatz, just off Unter den Linden. Most of the bathrooms have separate walk-in showers and mosaic marble detailing above double ended baths.

The restaurant looks onto a large external terrace, which is used for al fresco dining during summer. The cuisine is based on traditional Mediterranean cooking. The bar has a contemporary feel, but also features an original mosaic floor. The grand Opera Court still has its original glazed ceiling.

Hotel De Rome also offers an impressive ballroom, five meeting rooms and most importantly, a Spa featuring a plunge pool, steam, sauna and relaxation area and a fully-equipped gym. Plus an array of therapies, health and beauty treatments are offered in the six treatment rooms.

The original vault of the bank is now a 20 meter swimming pool. Now that’s a prime use of existing space.