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“Germany mitArt, Berlin It once housed the GDR’s National Military Printing Press, producing a ready supply of propaganda. Now it’s Berlin’s first green hotel, offering a showcase for up-and-coming contemporary artists in the lively, cosmopolitan Mitte district. The owner, Christiane Waszkowiak, started out running a modern art gallery that offered accommodation for the new artists she exhibited. Gradually, it grew into a small hotel. In 2005, she expanded the operation by moving to this turn-of-the-20th-century building, decorating the interior in contemporary style with eco-friendly paints and varnishes. The courtyard is filled with herbs, lemon bushes, fig trees and a banana palm. Rooms are stylish and uncluttered, with dark wooden furnishings, white bedding and, of course, contemporary artworks. Electricity comes from renewable sources and cleaning products and guest soaps are organic and biodegradeable. Recycling of everything from plastics to cans is standard practice, and any waste organic matter from the kitchen is collected in separate containers for composting. The cafe on the ground floor serves only organic food - sourced as much as possible from local suppliers. The hotel provides information on things to do and see in the area, and Christiane is particularly knowledgeable on the local art scene. · 0049 (0) 30 283 90430, mitart.de, €110-€180 per double per night B&B.”
Go lightly: 10 eco-friendly places to stay | Travel | The Guardian
