Header: ArneNagel_AMOAeK
The Grand Hotel Straubinger in Bad Gastein, Austria, is a triumphant blend of history and modernity, epitomizing the delicate balance between preservation and innovation. Following meticulously renovating its heritage-protected buildings, the hotel has been transformed into a luxurious retreat that celebrates its storied past while embracing contemporary design. The result is a breathtaking fusion of old-world charm and modern elegance.
The restoration of the Grand Hotel Straubinger was a labor of love, undertaken in collaboration with the Federal Monuments Office and local authorities. The focus was to honor the legacy of the original structure while incorporating modern design elements. Key historical features, such as patina-coated walls, original doors, and fixtures, were preserved, creating a layered aesthetic that resonates with history.
The hotel’s architecture is a poetic dialogue between eras. The grand staircase, a focal point of the original design, leads to beautifully restored spaces that exude nostalgia. In the reception area, guests are greeted with an intimate sense of the past, with room cards presented in velvet-lined drawers, evoking a sense of timeless hospitality. Every detail, from the carefully restored wall paneling to the sage-green hues rediscovered during the restoration, reflects a profound respect for the building’s heritage.
Historical elements blend perfectly with contemporary design
The interior design of the Grand Hotel Straubinger tells a story of continuity and elegance, resulting in a rich tapestry of textures and colors. Historical elements blend seamlessly with contemporary touches, creating sophisticated and inviting spaces.
The 46 guest rooms exemplify this approach. Original artifacts like restored doors and walls coexist with state-of-the-art amenities. Inspired by historical oil paintings, the interplay of light and dark tones lends an expressive chiaroscuro effect to the interiors. Each room is a unique narrative, reflecting the hotel’s overarching theme of “new luxury.”
Straubinger Saal: A Feast for the Senses
The hotel’s dining hall, Straubinger Saal, is a masterclass in blending heritage with modern design. Vibrant contemporary elements, including lush greenery and bold colors, complement restored gold accents and the original ceiling in the side wings. A custom-designed chandelier inspired by the lost original adds a touch of opulence to the space.
The culinary experience matches the setting’s elegance. Guests can savor a modern take on Austrian-French cuisine served in an atmosphere that balances grandeur with warmth. The adjacent wine cellar, featuring a bespoke chef’s table crafted from repurposed timber, underscores the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship.
Wellness with a view
The Straubinger Spa is a sanctuary of relaxation, offering guests a holistic wellness experience. Spanning three floors, it features a rooftop infinity pool that seems to merge with the surrounding Gastein Valley. The soothing sound of a nearby waterfall enhances the tranquil ambiance, inviting guests to immerse themselves in nature.
The spa’s design reflects the hotel’s dedication to continuity. Historical patterns like chessboard tile floors are reinterpreted with modern flair. Pine saunas, free-standing bathtubs, and original basins repurposed as showers add unique touches, while the maritime-inspired color palette evokes a sense of serenity.
Sustainability and heritage
The Grand Hotel Straubinger’s restoration is a testament to sustainable design. The project minimized waste and reduced its environmental footprint by reusing materials and preserving as much of the original structure as possible. Historical elements, such as wrought-iron lamps and oak parquet flooring, were carefully restored, ensuring authenticity and charm.
Beyond its walls, the hotel’s revitalization has breathed new life into Straubingerplatz, transforming it into a vibrant hub for visitors and locals. The new pool landscape, with panoramic views of the valley, exemplifies the hotel’s commitment to enhancing its natural surroundings.
A timeless homage
From its carefully restored architecture to its thoughtfully curated interiors, the Grand Hotel Straubinger is a masterpiece of design and preservation. Nestled in the heart of Bad Gastein, it stands as a timeless homage to the great traditions of hospitality and craftsmanship, offering a sanctuary where the past and present harmoniously coexist. For those seeking an experience that is as enriching as it is luxurious, the Grand Hotel Straubinger is a destination unlike any other.
Technical sheet
Client: Straubingerplatz Immobilien GmbH
Design-build / Interior design: BWM Designers & Architects
BWM team: Erich Bernard, Markus Kaplan, Peter Foschi, Marlene Gesierich, Martina Lehner, Claus Hasslinger, Elisabeth Albenberger, Ismail Berkel, Maximilian Fasslabend, Lena Hainzinger, Tanja Hainzl, Clemens Hörl, Marlies Klauser, Ales Kosak, Sonja Leitgeb, Massimiliano Marian, Elisabeth Morillo-Napetschnig, Fridolin Öhlinger, Tjasa Rus
Interior styling concept: Atelier Peter Weisz, together with BWM Designers & Architects
Art concept: BWM in cooperation with Andrea von Goetz of Schwanenfliess
Source: v2com
