The Hamburg Bunker, originally built between 1942 and 1943 during WWII, served as one of eight flak towers designed to defend against Allied bombings.
Constructed using forced labour, the bunker was virtually indestructible and sheltered up to 25,000 people. After the war, it took on various roles, from housing displaced residents to becoming a music studio and nightclub.
In 2019, the city of Hamburg and private investors decided to transform this historical structure into a luxury hotel, while preserving its past. The bunker, originally left intact due to demolition risks, has hosted numerous businesses over the decades, including a creative hub for photography and advertising agencies, a modern media and cultural centre, and nightclubs like Uebel & Gefährlich.
The renovation began in 2022 and was completed in July 2023, costing £84 million ($110m). The bunker now features a five-story rooftop extension with a garden, hotel, restaurants, and more. The rooftop garden, filled with drought-resistant plants, also acts as a natural air conditioning system and is open to the public.
RIMC Hotels and Resorts partnered with Hard Rock Hotels to bring the REVERB brand to Europe. The transformation involved extensive renovations, adding five new floors to the original structure. The hotel retains the bunker’s thick concrete walls, now adorned with vibrant décor inspired by the Hard Rock brand.
The 4-star hotel offers 134 allergy-free rooms and suites. The design blends modern, playful elements with an edgy industrial feel, featuring music memorabilia and unique objects. From CD shelf wallpaper, vinyl record-shaped tables, and concert posters, creating a unique immersive atmosphere and a quirky personal touch.
The design aesthetic is modern and playful. The overall vibe is on the minimal side but with vibrant pops of colour, lots of neon signs and eclectic contemporary and street art to liven things up with sleek mid-century modern-esque furnishings.
Guests can choose between King, Double Queen and Roadie Bunk Rooms, all offering hip furnishings, fan-inspired artwork, a state-of-the-art entertainment system, work areas and bathrooms with high-end toiletries. Other room amenities include a fridge, Alexa and smart technology. Many of the rooms feature breath taking views of the Hamburg cityscape and harbour.
Ideal for bands (or friends) on tour, the Roadie Bunk Room comes complete with two queen bunk beds and one queen bed, two private bathrooms, a karaoke machine, an oversized smart TV and more. Each room is decked out with a smart voice assistant that can access the REVERB City Guides, mood lighting, playlists, entertainment options, plus a whole lot more besides.
There’s also a three-field hall in the complex that can fit 2,200 people. It’s named after heroic resistance fighter Georg Elser, who tried and failed to assassinate Hitler. The space is used by neighbourhood high-school students as a sports hall during the day and transforms into a concert and cultural venue after dark.
Dining options include La Sala and KAROundPAUL bar and soon to open restaurant with the latter curated by Michelin-starred chef Frank Rosin.
The rooftop garden, open from 9 am to 9 pm during summer, provides a serene urban oasis. The hotel also features a coffee shop, a fashion shop, and a Rock Shop. Guests can explore the hotel’s exhibition honouring the forced labourers who built the bunker, and enjoy the vibrant Karoviertel neighbourhood’s coffee shops, vintage stores, and nightlife.
The REVERB by Hard Rock Hotel offers a unique experience, combining history, culture, and modernity. Guests can enjoy breath taking views of the Hamburg cityscape and harbour from their rooms and immerse themselves in the hotel’s lively atmosphere with vibrant décor and entertainment options.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a music lover, or simply seeking a distinctive place to stay, the REVERB by Hard Rock Hotel promises an unforgettable visit.