Brilliant Apartments is housed in a fairly nondescript, historic brick building on a wide, quiet street. Since it's not a hotel, there's no lobby as such, and the public areas are made up of hallways and corridors. That said, they're all clean and well-kept. The apartments would suit business travelers or tourists who are looking for a homey base from which to explore the city, or those who are staying for longer than a few days and don't want to live out of a hotel for an extended trip.

The apartments are in the Prenzlauer Berg district of Berlin; once known for being bohemian, the area has now seen some gentrification and is trendy and picturesque. The street itself is dotted with restaurants and design shops, and at one end there's a huge flea market. It's central but a little quieter than some parts of the city centre, and has links to the city's art scene. This district has more old buildings than other areas of Berlin, as it was left relatively untouched by World War II. There are tram and underground stops within easy walking distance, putting the rest of the city at your fingertips. Berlin Tegel Airport is a 20-minute drive away.

Clean, quiet, and stylish, the apartments offer a real feeling of home away from home. Each is individually and tastefully decorated, with wood floors, neutral walls, and exposed brickwork. Because it's an older building, the ceilings are high and have beautiful coving, and yet the apartments retain a cozy feel. Different apartments cater to different numbers of people, and cribs can be added for children, so it's easy to find the right fit for your group. It's worth noting that there are four floors and no elevator, so those with mobility issues should ask for a lower-floor room. All apartments have free Wi-Fi, kitchens with fridges and stovetops, and separate sitting and dining areas. Some have a private balcony.

Brilliant Apartments has few amenities outside the apartments. Free Wi-Fi is available to guests throughout the property, and there are free newspapers. There's no front desk, but there are lockers in the entrance hall containing the apartment keys.