Mining heritage, yes – mining nostalgia for its own sake, no. This simple philosophy sums up the vision of Irene Bakker and Haakon Herbst, who opened hotel friends at Zollverein in summer 2019. Authentic artifacts from the mining era and several rooms—each dedicated to a miner and his unique story—are part of the experience. But there's much more. The friends in Essen refuses to be a theme park version of the coal industry; instead, it aspires to be a living room for the neighbourhood—a place where people naturally gather and community truly thrives.

Where do you go when you're heading back from a late-night event at one or two in the morning? The answer: friends. The lounge and hotel bar, positioned right next to the Folkwang University of the Arts, thrives as a vibrant destination around the clock. Prominent guests have graced these spaces, often capping off the evening with impromptu piano performances. The welcoming foyer and open bar are made for such moments. Warming fireplaces are framed by comfortable seating, while curated artworks—discovered by the owners during their travels—add character throughout. Each piece stands on its own, yet somehow belongs to a cohesive whole. This effortless charm invites passersby and professionals alike to step in for coffee or a cocktail, exchange words with the bartender, and when the sun breaks through, settle into the outdoor lounge with its inviting, colourful cushions. A small mining cart on the counter keeps a subtle nod to the site's industrial heritage alive.

www.hotelfriends.de

Photography Credits:

Karin Freislederer

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 01|20)