"Why go? To experience a real-life Grand Design in the heart of Berlin...

"The words ‘exposed concrete shell reinforced with steel’ don’t sound immediately appealing. But when you’re standing in the middle of one of the serviced apartments of Miniloft Mitte, it’s hard not to feel differently about them. The impressive floor-to-ceiling windows fill the space with light and the under-floor heating gives the minimalist rooms an unexpectedly warm, homely feel.

"Designed and run by award-winning architects, Britta Jurgens and Matthew Griffin, Miniloft is formed of two spectacular buildings. The renovated 19th -century brick structure houses the Classic and Compact lofts, while a modern concrete and glass structure contains the Extroverted and Introverted spaces.

"Each loft has a fully equipped kitchenette with a microwave and a huge dining room table, with a high-pressure shower and hairdryer in the en suite bathroom. There are plenty of little personal touches as well – the most useful being a well-informed guidebook about the neighbourhood, which includes everything from take-out menus and telephones numbers for some of Berlin’s hidden gems.

"Miniloft is definitely a place to stay if your interest lies in the arts and culture. Not only are the premises and interiors architecturally spectacular, but also the location is perfect if you want to explore the popular ‘Scheunenviertel’ area and mix with Berlin’s creative types."