AccorHotels' luxury brand will double its global presence by unveiling four new SO/ hotels in Berlin, Auckland, St. Petersburg and Vienna.

SO/ announced to its portfolio three new European addresses in Berlin, St. Petersburg and Vienna, and the brand's first hotel in the southern hemisphere in Auckland, New Zealand. All are set to open under the SO/ banner by end of 2018.

These four additions will expand the SO/ portfolio to eight properties. They join a network that already includes two SO/ properties in Thailand (Bangkok & Hua Hin), SO/ Mauritius and SO/ Singapore.

Joao Rocco, Vice President, Luxury Brand Management, Sofitel Brands explains “SO/ has created a stylish and playful experience, enhanced with an unconventional attitude inherited from its French roots. We have plans to introduce the SO/ brand into leading markets around the world and are very proud of all the new projects that will go live over the next few months. These properties will offer a luxurious yet irreverent approach to hospitality, celebrating and embracing their destinations’ vibe, energy and local trends.”

BERLIN

In March 2018, the SO/ brand officially welcomes SO/ Berlin Das Stue. With a neoclassical façade dating from the 1930s, this boutique hotel - former Royal Danish Embassy - is located in Berlin's diplomatic district and within easy walking distance of many of Berlin's most famous sites, including Tiergarten Park and Berlin Zoo.

Many of the 78 rooms at SO/ Berlin Das Stue (including 20 suites) overlook the gardens and guests have the privilege of private access to the zoo. The property also has two restaurants, including Cinco by the famous chef Paco Perez, who was awarded a Michelin star for his avant-garde creations.

In addition, Dutch Fashion-duo Viktor&Rolf has been appointed signature designer to create the new uniforms as well as the emblem of the hotel.

AUCKLAND

Strategically located in the heart of Auckland's business district, the SO/ Auckland occupies the former New Zealand Reserve Bank.

The property is scheduled to open in July 2018 and has 133 rooms and suites. SO/ Auckland customers will benefit from a Signature Club lounge, restaurant, bar, indoor pool, spa and fitness center located in the old bank vault.

VIENNA

Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom is set to become SO/ Vienna by the end of 2018.

With its monochrome color palette and diamond roof pattern, designed to reflect the influence of the city's famed St. Stephen's Cathedral, SO/ Vienna stands out with its colourful works of art.

With 182 rooms and suites, a fitness center, a spa centre and two bars, SO/ Vienna completes its offer with the restaurant Das LOFT, its panoramic view and its kaleidoscopic ceiling.

ST PETERSBURG

SO/ Sofitel St. Petersburg opened its doors to guests in the very heart of the city. It offers 137 guest-rooms and suites – ranging from snug SO Cozy room to balconied SO Lofty suites, and SO VIP apartments – equipped with their own fireplace, two-seat bath with a view across to St. Isaac's Cathedral, and a bar with separate staff entrance.

According to the strategies of Accor Hotels Group, the SO/Sofitel is built as a place where traditional refinement meets fashion trends. Each hotel has its own individual character, and the hotel interiors have been designed by world-famous couturiers including Kenzo Takada, Karl Lagerfeld, and Christian Lacroix.

According to data published by Hospitality ON, as of January 1, 2017, Sofitel (SO & LEGEND) had 120 properties in its portfolio, representing a capacity of more than 30,000 rooms.