The NOVUM Hotel Group has leased the new hotel building from EUROPA-CENTER and the interior architects JOI-Design are currently putting the final touches to the design features on behalf of the Group.
The opening date for the first niu lifestyle brand hotel is fixed. From 15 November 2017, globetrotters, business people, young and old can check into one of the 145 rooms at the new niu Cobbles in one of Essen’s most central locations at the corner of Kruppstrasse and Friedrichstrasse. The EUROPACENTER Immobiliengruppe has developed office and commercial space on this pocket of land in several construction sections spread over a total of 50,000 m². The NOVUM Hotel Group has leased the new hotel building from Europa-Center and the interior architects JOI-Design are currently putting the final touches to the design features on behalf of the Group. "There's still quite a bit to be done to complete what are some very unusual details: this is not individuality from the shelf, but bespoke in series. At every niu, we tell a unique story which is inspired by the location", explains Samira Said, Chief Project Officer at the NOVUM Hotel Group.
niu Cobbles: Industrial style with surprising effects
"We always make individual and innovative choices when searching for the hotel name. Choosing niu Cobbles was in no way an accident. Cobbles, which are large lumps of coal in mining language, is a symbol for the unique story of Essen. From a former coal mining and steel foundry centre to a pulsating metropolis. This not only allows us to create brand stringency from the very outset, we also cater for a unique hotel experience from the first moment you come into contact with the hotel," explains David Etmenan, Chief Executive Officer and owner of the NOVUM Hotel Group.
An interior influenced by the mine pit highlights the history of the area throughout the hotel: miner's lamps in matching design are suspended from the ceiling and provide extra light, and barstools are modelled on the dungarees that the miners used to wear. Every detail, no matter how small, convinces with press release imperfect charm in industrial design and encourages you to marvel, take selfies and explore. It’s the little things that are inherent to the niu: lamps shaped like canary birds, because these chirpy little feathered friends were used in the mines to warn against carbon dioxide. Raw materials like wire mesh, unhewn wood and slate slabs create a cool ambience. Contrasts have, however, been set to consciously interrupt the industrial style.
Coloured squares, cosy armchairs and unusual wall decorations conquer the space convincingly and turn the guest’s stay into an unforgettable experience. This aspiration towards individuality does not stop with the public areas either. The extraordinary urban finish even continues in the rooms. The original bathroom sends guests on a voyage of discovery to local attractions and landmarks in the area. And anyone who takes a shine to the decorations during their stay may well find what they are looking for in the niu shop.
Niu Cobbles is interactive
Like any niu, the atmosphere at niu Cobbles is relaxed and interactive for that perfect homely feeling. From the front desk to the Living Lobby and bar – everything merges seamlessly into one and is alive and shared. The employees live the niu spirit, are as individual as the niu brand itself, but remain genuine service professionals always. The team, regular events, a relaxed atmosphere and a sophisticated F&B concept also attract locals to the hotel. What's more, the most advanced technology around is also to be had at the niu: lots of sockets, smart flat screens, USB ports, ultra-fast wi-fi, an Instagram wall, background beats throughout the hotel and Bluetooth boxes in all the rooms leave nothing to be desired.
There's loads going on outside the hotel as well. Travellers can find a wide range of cultural and leisure activities in the surrounding area. The Essen City Garden, the Essen Philharmonic concert hall, the Aalto Theatre, the Folkwang Museum and the Gluckaufhaus are all just a stone's throw away.
Niu Cobbles is just the start to a series of individual hotels with an adventurous character and affordable prices. Based on current plans, David Etmenan wants to open more than 30 hotels in the niu brand.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
