Another spot to visit and buy at when in Berlin‘s Mitte district? Lunettes Selection. Whether you’re looking for classy sunnies or rare, vintage Pierre Cardin frames, that’s the right address for you. The store’s interior is simple, but eye-catchy (no pun intended…). The endless number of pharmacy-like shelves with a huge variety of glasses is here, ready to be opened and tried out. Take your time!
Torstraße 172 / Berlin
All photos by Edward Kanarecki.
Whenever I’m sure I know Berlin well, it proves me that I’m completely, completely mistaken – that’s the charm of this city! Even Mitte, a neighborhood that is often referred to as no longer off-beat, but not yet mainstream, has some secrets hidden from me, especially on the Torstraße (that doesn’t just end on Soho House Hotel). One of them is Brutto Gusto, a place that’s blurring the lines between a flower shop and fine arts gallery. You will find here both, a delightfully big, blue hydrangea, and a ceramic artwork with a 13,500 euro price tag. Like one of those Carolein Smit‘s sculptures, that are temporarily exhibited at Brutto Gusto (until 12.01.19). Smit explores disturbing motifs, that simultaneosly repulse and attract. But when you notice the meticulous craftsmanship that is involved in every work of hers, there’s no way you will turn away from it. The place as well sells artisan pots, vases and glassware, all that coming straight from the studio.
Torstraße 175 / Berlin
Photos by Edward Kanarecki and via flatlandgallery.com
Isobel Gowdie‘s Hotel Paris is Mitte’s loveliest destination, supplied with vintage greats from Isabel Marant and true treasures from such off-the-radar labels like Les Mesdemoiselles. The spacious boutique, filled with boho delights, is a dream summer wardrobe made for long walks down the beach or the wandering in the countryside. Note the blanket selection, as well! Next time you’re in Berlin, take your time to go through all of those well curated must-haves.
Mulackstraße 4 / Berlin
All photos by Edward Kanarecki.
Looking for a well-curated vintage store in Berlin‘s Mitte district? I’m sure The Golden Circus will please you in every possible way. The place is a fruit of a long-life passion for fashion and crafts that Sonia, the owner, has. Ancient silk kimonos made according to traditional Japanese techniques; ethnic textiles from Central Asia; handmade accessories (if you’re here, note Caralarga, a Mexican jewellery brand, and those Sicilian bags from 1950s Italy); vintage clothing from Burberry, Moschino and others. “Wearing these pieces, Sonia explains, makes you aware of the incredible amount of work and the fantastic workmanship that was put into them. In this sense, all of them are real treasures.” Can’t agree more with that. Rather than going for another mass-produced coat, why not invest in a piece that has its story?
Rosenthalerstrasse 7 / Berlin
All photos by Edward Kanarecki.
Even though our last day trip to Berlin occurred at the time of the Reformation Day, and we were absolutely unaware of the fact all stores are closed during that national holiday, the German capital proved once again that it’s incredible even on calmer, lazier days. First, by a total co-incidence, we’ve stepped into Open Air Mitte, a yard that functions as an open air cinema: it shows anything from classic films to live music performances. But also, it’s Berlin’s top show-off spot for graffiti artists – the street art here is unbelievable! Just like the local pubs, bars and guerilla stores. Later, we strolled around the Museum Island, which is even more spectacular with its monumental architecture when there’s not even one tourist around.
At least, some restaurants were open that day, and Kreuzberg saved us in the evening with its classic. Zola is best known in Berlin for serving Neapolitan style pizza. With its massive, wood-fired oven, the place (crowded even on holidays) has ranked up high with its undemanding atmosphere and very, very well made pizza in the neighborhood. Well, no wonder why.
All photos by Edward Kanarecki.
Design & Culture by Ed 