Very well written, descriptive review.
I did two nights here with Mrs. Captain_Starwood before a wedding.
I thought the service was mixed, the room was very charming but small, the espresso machine and crystal tumblers were a treat, the dead sea toiletries weren't bad, the location was very convenient for the Ku-Damm and for walking, and the restaurant was tasty (better service in restaurant than in hotel).
Waiting for the one elevator and a lack of consistent staff were two downsides.
Lack of an included breakfast for an SPG Platinum wasn't great, but that's Design hotels, not the hotel specifically.
I wouldn't prioritize this on a future visit, unless I wanted to stay close to Ku-damm.