From hotel room to the smallest museum in Switzerland
What were once two classic hotel rooms are now places full of stories: Rooms 104 and 105 at harry’s home Bern-Ostermundigen have been developed in close collaboration with the Museum of Communication Bern into the first known museum rooms in a hotel in Bern and its surroundings. On 64 square meters, a curated overall experience unfolds that immerses guests in the development of communication with a special focus on Switzerland.
The concept comes from the multiple award-winning Museum of Communication, which among other accolades, carries the Museum Prize of the Council of Europe and is considered one of the most innovative museums in Europe. The implementation was led by Laura Canelli (Hotel Manager of harry’s home Bern-Ostermundigen) together with Nico Gurtner (Head of Marketing & Communication at the Museum of Communication) and the renowned Bern scenographer Heidy-Jo Wenger, who created the atmospheric and emotional design of the room.
The centerpiece: A 'Brain in a Cage' as a direct link to the museum
At the centre of the museum room stands an iconic object inspired by the permanent exhibition of the Museum of Communication Bern: a colourful 'Brain in a Cage.' This impressive exhibit forms the heart of the room and symbolizes the central question of communication: How we think, feel, and connect with each other. At the same time, it creates an immediate bridge between hotel room and museum.
Time travel through the history of communication
Around 15 selected exhibits and numerous interactive elements turn the room into an experiential space:
- Hat boxes with historical letters, postcards, and stamps showcase communication before the digital era.
- An original uniform from the Swiss Postal, Telephone, and Telegraph services (PTT) represents an influential profession.
- A collection of mobile phones, from early Nokia devices to current smartphones, illustrates technological change.
- Photographs and everyday objects offer surprising insights into communication history.
The experience is complemented by playful knowledge installations, hidden details, and interactive elements. Quotes and questions about communication, relationships, and societal change encourage reflection throughout the space. A diary on the bedside table invites guests to become part of the story themselves.
Cultural appetizer with direct impact
The project leaders see the museum room as far more than an extraordinary hotel offer, rather as a new approach to culture and tourism.
“A hotel room can be much more than just a place to sleep. It can evoke emotions, encourage thought, and create true aha moments. This is exactly what we have achieved together with the Museum of Communication,” explains Laura Canelli, Hotel Manager of harry’s home Bern-Ostermundigen.
The Museum of Communication also sees great potential in the cooperation to reach new target groups: “We are bringing our museum directly to the people. The museum room is an appetizer that whets the appetite for more and excites guests about communication,” says Nico Gurtner, Head of Marketing & Communication.
Impulse for Bern and Swiss tourism
The museum room is exemplary of a new generation of tourism offers in Switzerland: experiences that combine overnight stays and culture and provide guests with real added value. The connection between hotel hospitality and museums creates a unique offer with a clear unique selling proposition, not only in Bern but throughout Switzerland.
For the Bern destination, the project means an innovative expansion of the tourist offer. It specifically targets culture-interested guests, families, and international travelers seeking authentic and meaningful experiences.
Bookable without surcharge - Culture included
The museum room has been bookable since April 2026 and is deliberately offered without surcharge. Guests also receive discounted entry to the Museum of Communication Bern.
The cooperation is set for at least one year. Further development or expansion will be based on guest feedback.
Media contact:
Harry’s home Bern-Ostermundigen
Laura Canelli
Phone: +41 31 560 71 56
Email: laura.canelli@harrys-home.com
Website: https://bern.harrys-home.com/