Thursday October 17th saw the launch (or ‘real launch’, they have been open since March) of the latest Generator Hostel to open in Berlin, this time on Oranienbergerstr in Mitte.  Generator claim to be “Much, much, much more than a hostel” and so we went along to see why.

The happy mood inside the party was in direct contrast with the miserable rain pouring down outside, with a mixed international crowd of guests seemingly in high spirits as they knocked back a large variety of mixed drinks and cocktails from the multiple free bars. There was a strong press and media presence, with one young journalist from Vice Magazine in London explaining that his company had flown him and five other co-workers to Berlin for 24 hours to cover the event.

Outside in the courtyard Berlin’s newest street-food collective, ‘Bite Club’ were on hand to provide help to those who had perhaps missed dinner, with some delicious snacks such as Swedish meatballs and Mexican tacos on offer. Meanwhile, just inside the door the DJs were getting the party started in earnest as the alcohol continued to flow from the busy but friendly bar-tenders.

A trip down one flight of stairs revealed another stylishly designed space acting as both yet another bar, as well as functioning as a permanent urban art gallery with various pieces from local artists hanging on the walls. Many of these artists were present at the party and some were still actively working on their contributions as other guests looked on with interest.

Down one further floor to the basement and yet another bar, in an even bigger space, with even more DJs showcasing  skills. This time the eclectic beats were of secondary importance as an impressive display of scratching and other turntablism was on display, while guests also enjoyed the interactive projection installation alongside the DJ box.

Overall, despite a lot of guests coming simply for an evening of free food, drinks and dancing, the vast majority of those I spoke with were very impressed by their surroundings.  Add in the fact that beds start at just €10.50 in the larger dorms and the presence of in-house art galleries and DJ helmed dance-floors becomes even more impressive. While I didn’t see any of the rooms, the rest of the building was an example of stylish urban design and it would seem then that Generator Hostels, a brand intent on expanding its profile while remaining ‘cool’, may just have scored another ‘Win’ in Berlin.

Generator Hostel Berlin Mitte
Oranienburger Straße 65
10117 Berlin
www.generatorhostels.com