Discover Germany, Issue 33, December 2015

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Issue 33 | December 2015

CHRISTOPH

WALTZ C H A R M I N G B U T DA N G E R O U S

PLUS MADE IN SWITZERLAND WELLNESS, HEALTH & BEAUTY EXCLUSIVE REAL ESTATE FASHION, DESIGN & CULTURE

T H E M AG A Z I N E P R O M OT I N G G E R M A N Y, S W I T Z E R L A N D & A U ST R I A

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Your Shortcut to Scandinavia Bergen

NORWAY

Oslo Stockholm Bromma

SWEDEN Aalborg

Gothenburg

Aarhus

UNITED KINGDOM

DENMARK Billund

Manchester

London City

GERMANY Brussels

D端sseldorf

BELGIUM

SWITZERLAND

Munich

Z端rich

S n a cks

Me als

Drinks

ba.com

Pap ers

Lounges

Smiles

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Discover Germany | Contents

Contents DECEMBER 2015

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Photo: BERLINS HOTEL KRONELAMM

Photo: MÜNCHNER HOF

COVER FEATURE 6

102 Adrenaline-boosting winter sports Discover some rather unusual ways to enjoy the icy temperatures.

Christoph Waltz Oscar-winning actor Christoph Waltz talks about playing a Bond villian, how it feels being part of the Bond family and what we can expect from the latest adventures of 007.

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SPECIAL THEMES 36

Wellness, Health & Beauty

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The best for the body and soul for a good start in the new year.

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Made in Switzerland Truly authentic and original Swiss brands to bear in mind.

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Exclusive Real Estate

FEATURES 50

German Mountain Splendour We take a tour through Germany’s mountain regions in winter.

Restaurant of the Month

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Conference of the Month

REGULARS & COLUMNS 10

Fashion Classic winter warmers with an elegant touch will never let you down.

Design Christmas time in and around the house.

Wine & Dine Great places to take a break and enjoy a glass of red and more.

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Culture Great spa experiences in Switzerland and all you need to feel great this winter.

Attraction of the Month

Bad Kissingen’s hotel and conference centre Frankenland combines the individuality and flexibility of a boutique hotel with the space only large-chain hotels can rival.

Beautiful properties to keep an eye on – bricks and mortar at its best.

schneider+schumacher

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The Einstein Museum in Bern is all about one of the world’s greatest minds.

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Swiss hotel Piz, in posh St. Moritz, goes the extra mile and merges superb facilities with a heartfelt service that makes everyone feel at home – at a bargain price.

Zurich’s Alice Choo is a wonderland of pan-Asian cuisine. Luxurious, with intensive aromas and culinary creations that are simply irresistible.

Architecture & Design Creativity and sustainability teamed with innovative designs are all part of this exciting architectural theme.

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Austria’s Legal Experts Meet some of Austria’s most remarkable law firms and their masterminds.

Hotels of the Month Regensburg’s Münchner Hof has it all.The charming family-led hotel is ideally located for exploring the city’s 2,000 years of history.

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Business Legal expert Gregor Kleinknecht takes a look at street art rights. Plus, great business solutions for everyone.

104 Culture calendar Save the date! Discover Germany’s culture calendar is your perfect guide to what not to miss in December.

107 Barbara Geier German festive food explained by our columnist Barbara.

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Dear Reader,

Discover Germany

Sales & Key Account Managers

Issue 33, December 2015

Emma Fabritius Nørregaard

Published 01.12.2015 ISSN 2051-7718

Welcome to the December issue of Discover Germany. Our last cover for this year is graced by a personal favourite of mine: the extraordinary Austrian actor Christoph Waltz, who plays the villain in the latest Bond movie Spectre. The Oscar-winning Hollywood superstar talks about playing a Bond baddie, how it feels being part of the Bond family and what we can expect from the latest adventures of 007.

Laura Hummer Noura Draoui Vanessa Vogel Freya Plakolb

Published by Scan Magazine Ltd.

Cover Photo Helga Esteb/Shutterstock.com

Design & Print Liquid Graphic Ltd.

Advertising info@discovergermany.com

Executive Editor Thomas Winther

Discover Germany is published by:

Creative Director Mads E. Petersen

SCAN GROUP Scan Magazine Ltd. 15B Bell Yard Mews Bermondsey Street London SE1 3TY United Kingdom

Editor Tina Awtani Art Director Svetlana Slizova Feature Writer

Phone +44 (0)870 933 0423 info@discovergermany.com

Nane Steinhoff Copy-Editor

For further information, please visit www.discovergermany.com

Isa Hemphrey

From Bond to Banksy we turn to our legal column, where Gregor Kleinknecht takes a closer look at who is owning street art, following a High Court decision on one of the artist’s murals that has been removed and sold in the US by the owner of the decorated building. Creativity has no bounds as our special themes on design and architecture show and there is much more to be discovered in this issue.

More special themes include Made in Switzerland, Austrian legal experts and exquisite real estate. We have something for everyone; and if you are looking for beauty, health and wellness, you will certainly find some great tips in this magazine too.

Feel free to sit back, relax and browse through the pages bringing you the best of Switzerland, Austria and Germany each month.

Have a wonderful last month of 2015 and may the holiday season bring only happiness and joy to you and your loved ones.

Merry Christmas and a Happy NewYear, or to say in German:

Contributors Cornelia Brelowski

“Fröhliche Weihnachten und einen guten Rutsch ins neue Jahr”!

Nadine Carstens Elisabeth Doehne Ina Frank Barbara Geier Jessica Holzhausen Julika Huether

Tina Awtani

Sonja Irani Gregor Kleinknecht Benedikt Meininger Dorina Reichhold Marilena Stracke

© All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of Scan Magazine Ltd. This magazine contains advertorials/promotional articles

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DISCOVER YOUR STYLE. www.padconcept.com

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Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Christoph Waltz

Christoph Waltz Charming but dangerous Bond is back! Daniel Craig returns for the fourth time as 007 in the brand new James Bond film Spectre. The 24th instalment of the franchise – created by Skyfall director Sam Mendes – sees Bond battling a criminal syndicate led by Franz Oberhauser, played by Christoph Waltz. Meanwhile, Naomie Harris is back as Miss Moneypenny, Ben Whishaw returns to play Q and Ralph Fiennes is once again M. New members of the cast include Bond girls Monica Bellucci, who plays Lucia Sciarra, and Léa Seydoux, who stars as Madeleine Swann.

TEXT: CHARLOTTE WINTERS/HOTFEATURES I PHOTO: DENIS MAKARENKO / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Oscar-winning actor Christoph Waltz talks about playing a Bond baddie, how it feels being part of the Bond family and what we can expect from the latest adventures of 007.

Christoph, you seem very charming, just like your character in the movie…

“Charming but dangerous!”[laughs] So how does it feel to be a part of the Bond family?

“It feels wonderful because it really is a family situation. And it’s because I have an oddly theoretical nostalgia for the old patriarchal studio system, not that this is a patriarchal studio, but it is a very big company with very strong family aspects. Of course, you know, when you play Bond then I can see you will have the normal and healthy difficulties that you would have in a family.

So, interference by your parents [laughs], and trying to free yourself and, you know, go through the whole thing. But I’m just a distant cousin, so it’s fantastic.”

Which is your favourite Bond movie?

“You see Bond is a great, actually if I were to teach a film course or film history or film

awareness course, I would use Bond as my topic. Because it started in ’62 and now, 52 years later, we have the 24th Bond movie.

We had one every two years or so, not regular intervals. And they change according to the time. But so does our perception. So do I have a favourite Bond movie? Every single one that I saw, because that was the movie of the time and that’s what movies of that kind are all about, to watch our world in this moment with our eyes in this moment. And you can actually depict that idea beautifully in watching all the Bond movies.

Because it’s always more or less the same set up, that’s part of the allure. It needs to be the set up. By now the parameters are set.

And for that reason, they also need to be fulfilled.You can’t just break it because you would break the Bond idea. And I always liken it to Commedia dell’arte you know, you have these people, you have the Arlecchino and the Brighella and the Pantalone and they all do what they’re supposed to do. So we see right away what’s going on. And they have their very set characteristics. Now that’s popular culture, whether that’s the 18th century or the 21st, that’s a detail.”

Tell us in what way this Bond film picks up the contemporary?

“Well you see it picks up a very, very pressing and urgent topic – surveillance and the manipulation of data. In the ‘60s that was the Cold War, the atomic bomb that the villain had under his cloak was really a pressing and urgent topic of the time.

Thankfully, we’re not really so scared of atomic bombs anymore but now we’re scared of... I’m convinced they have a camera somewhere here [laughs]. Who knows?”

You said that Bond gives you parameters and there are certain things you have to keep in there, but how do you then stretch those parameters and keep it exciting for audiences?

“Well by keeping the basic threat, the main obstacle current and up to date. And if you follow that through then the means by which that obstacle is overcome will also change.”

How much leeway does it give you as an actor to fit into this parameter?

“You have plenty. Charles Eames, the de-

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Photo: Jaguar PS / Shutterstock.com

Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Christoph Waltz

signer, said, ‘A designer needs restriction’ because you can’t work without restriction.

The restriction actually sets the mode. And even though an actor is really not a designer because the design is already complete, you know, an actor sometimes does alterations to the design, you know, streamline it and say,‘This is not going to be an airplane, it’s a submarine’. But the basic design should remain the same. But then Eames said,‘If you don’t have a restriction the most important part of your job is to impose it on yourself’. And that’s in a way something that I really try to follow. What’s required? I don’t really believe that abolishing and eliminating limits will give you freedom, and I mean that in every respect

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by the way. Freedom comes from realising where the limits are and then acting accordingly.

Do you have a favourite Bond villain?

“Gert Fröbe always comes to mind because of his steam engine-like persona. It’s fun.

And well, the ‘60s irony and the ‘60s had a different importance in our exchange. I find it regrettable that irony is kind of vanishing or getting a bad reputation, irony now, [whispers] especially in America. It’s clear they don’t get it, I mean not Americans, but the critics of irony feel side-lined because they’re not quick enough. Reading between the lines is out of fashion. You need to get hit over the head. It’s your fault,

it’s the media [laughs]. But that’s what I love about this Bond movie, irony is coming back in. Irony is such an important element of Bond and that’s where the more subtle changes are actually interesting, to come back to our film course.”

Would you like to do the next Bond movie?

“I haven’t read the script yet – do you know any details?”[laughs] But you are the one villain who survives in this movie?

“Who knows? Maybe he dies of his wounds the day after – anything is possible.”

Thank you

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Burgruine Aggstein

3642 Aggsbach Dorf | Austria | www.ruineaggstein.at

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

Fashion Finds Done with the Christmas shopping yet? Ready for all the dinner parties and family lunches to come? This month’s fashion picks are a celebration of muted and subtle colour shades for the cool days ahead.

These classic winter warmers with an elegant touch will never let you down.

EDITOR’S PICKS | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

A blazer coat is one of the absolute classics that every wardrobe needs. The clean-cut lines and timeless colours make this model an absolute must-have this season and all year round. £245. www.bettybarclay.com

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

Complete your stylish outfit with this cosy and figure-hugging gilet. £140. www.bettybarclay.com

Snuggle up in this very cosy triangular snake print cashmere wrap. £178. www.codello.de

Consider it a wardrobe essential for the seasons to come: a classic blouse that goes with everything and always looks stylish. £56. www.kd12.de

This jacket in lovely faux lambskin in an elegant shade of taupe looks relaxed and casual because of its asymmetrical shape. The mix of short and long faux lamb fur is a special highlight. £200. www.bettybarclay.com

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Discover Germany | Design | Dedicated to Design

Dedicated to Design...

December is a season of shopping frenzies. Finding the right gift for everyone is a tough challenge and having everything ready in time is an even more demanding task. Therefore, we have hand-picked a few Christmassy design ideas to make everybody happy.

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EDITOR'S PICKS

Who is stealing the cookies here? Cute Side by Side confectionary tray by designer Jette Scheib. £21. www.einrichten-design.de An Advent calendar of a different kind. 24 little doors reveal a surprise every day until Christmas. £10.50. www.mug-shop.com

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This truly classic German Christmas decoration in the form of a tree-shaped illuminated double ‘Schwibbogen’ adds a festive touch to the window sill. £79. www.ratags.de

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This wall clock is handmade with love by Shabbyflair Design and boasts an Alpine charm. £17.50. www.shabbyflair.de A fun family of Santa Clauses made of painted wood.

Inspired by the classic Russian matryoshka dolls and made by Taj Wood & Scherer. £21. Available at www.emilundpaula.de

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MAGICAL SLEEP COMFORT Jensen Supreme Continental gives you an utterly enchanting sleep comfort. Part of the secret is hidden in the soft shoulder zone and the additional support for the lower back, which makes sure that the body gets an even and continuous support.

Now, it is being launched in a pleasant green, a colour said to have a calming effect.

ND RECO DA M PE

NDED ME

DEVEL O

All good reasons to treat yourself to magical sleep comfort

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BY

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Ole Myhre, a qualified physiotherapist, is a pioneer in the field of improving sleep comfort. For twenty years he has been carrying out tests, research and training for Jensen in Svelvik (Norway).

Jensen Flagship Store Deutschland Hansaring 53-59, 50670 Kรถln Tel.: 0221-35509977 E-Mail: jensenkoeln@netcologne.de www.jensen-betten-koeln.de

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Discover Germany | Design | Top Swiss Designer

Top Swiss Designer

Image clothing with a touch of haute couture Sophie Chiquet is a binational (Swiss and French) fashion designer and entrepreneur.

With her company CF Corporate Fashion GmbH, she and her team not only create, but also produce image clothing for all kinds of companies. By working closely together with her customers, Chiquet has been successfully designing unique looks made out of sustainable material since 1998. The existing branding, corporate identity or philosophy of the costumers serve as her major source of inspiration for the making of customised corporate fashion collections.

TEXT: NADINE CARSTENS I PHOTOS: CF CORPORATE FASHION GMBH

A personal style reinforces identity. This not only applies to people in everyday life, but also to companies. Stylish and functional image clothing is necessary to represent the philosophy and values of business organisations such as hotels, catering industries, the service sector, aviation or health care. Fashion designer and entrepreneur Sophie Chiquet from Zurich has been helping customers to underline their unique brand image since 1998. Her company, CF Corporate Fashion GmbH, is spe-

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cialised in advising companies that want to implement their corporate identity through corporate fashion, giving themselves a contemporary, individual look.

“Me and my team work project-oriented, just like an architect or an industrial designer. We cooperate closely with our customers in order to develop innovative, stylish and creative solutions. The clothing concepts and accessories shall not only represent the company’s philosophy, they should also have a comfortable and functional cut,”says Chiquet, who studied at the famous École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.“As a passionate fashion designer and entrepreneur, it is my mission to give a touch of haute couture and excellence to the quite pragmatic and often monotonous world of corporate fashion and image wear.” She first came up with this business idea when she was the head de-

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Discover Germany | Design | Top Swiss Designer

signer of the silk business Fabric Frontline Zurich in the mid-1990s. “Among other things, I took care of customised ties and foulards ordered by numerous banks and insurance companies,”Chiquet remembers.

“Thus, I had the idea to apply my broad knowledge about fashion and trends to workwear garment and image clothing. At first sight, this might not sound as sexy as haute couture, but I soon recognised what an enormous potential this new field offered.” The fashion designer, who gained working experience at Dior and Hermès in Paris, as well as at Escada and Laurèl in Munich, wanted to improve the market for workwear and image wear by adding the principle of ‘Form Follows Function (FFF)’ and fresh modern style to the customised corporate fashion collections of her clients.

Chiquet therefore launched her own business, first called chiQuet corporate fashion design, and turned it into a limited company in 2015, now under the name CF Corporate Fashion GmbH. In almost 20 years, she developed countless image clothing lines for all kinds of industries. One of her customers is a prestigious five-star hotel from Zurich. “We created a cohesive, representational Hotel Fashion collection for the staff of the reception and housekeeping departments: instead of blouses, we chose modern looking body shirts, which let the staff move more freely,”Chiquet explains. Another detail: CF Corporate Fashion GmbH developed special buttons “to match the fabric, as well as the look and feel of the collection,”she describes.

In order to ensure that the customers are pleased with the result of the order, CF Corporate Fashion GmbH works closely with them at all stages, no matter if it is the briefing, selecting suitable colours, materials and designs, the fitting or the delivery. Since Chiquet is both a passionate fashion designer and a successful entrepreneur, she and her team manage the whole process. Another aspect, which is very important to her, is sustainability.

Therefore, the full service also includes repeat orders:“The garments and accessories of the customer’s personalised collection will be delivered for an agreed period of time, this can be three, five, or ten years,” the fashion designer underlines.“This repeat order full service guarantees for the same style and quality; it hence provides an interesting long-term amortisation of initial costs.”

For 2016, she plans a basic collection in a modular design:“I do not want to give away too many details, yet, but I can already tell that it should include a small amount of simple, but chic pieces of clothing.” www.cfcorporatefashion.ch Main image: Hotel Fashion for étage and reception staff of renowned five-star Hotel Baur au Lac in Zürich.

Above: Gastro Fashion modular design for the service staff of Belgrill AG with it’s location as Belcafé and including all location of Sternengrill in the Zürich area.

Below left: Sportive Functional Fashion for the service team of plant specialist Hydroplant AG from Zürich.

Below right: Medical Fashion for the staff at two locations, the dermatologic practice and the adjoining cosmetic institute as well as laser centre Skinworld in Bern.

Bottom left: Event Fashion for the hostesses of the international trade fair for Hotellerie and Gastronomy called Igeho in Basel.

Bottom right: Haute Couture competition at the École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. Challenge : to illustrate songs by Edith Piaf with Haute Couture creations. The orange overall of picture bottom left has been selected by the time by the jury and realized a few years later for the Igeho Hostesses.

Portrait: Sophie Chiquet

Recently, Chiquet and her team also created a Gastro Fashion concept for a Swiss catering group.“We tried to use the customer’s logo as a central theme for the collection by taking the same colours and forms,” she says. CF Corporate Fashion GmbH produced this collection in a modular design, so that the people wearing it can adapt to the different seasons. For a plant-care specialist, Chiquet and her team created Sportive Functional clothes with simple and comfortable cuts, as well as easy care, highly practical corporate fashion fabrics. When selecting a colour scheme, she oriented herself on the bright green of the client’s logo.

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There is nothing good except you do it!

The German writer Erich Kästner coined the phrase: “There is nothing good, except one does it”. Freund GmbH take this to be their call. For over 30 years Freund GmbH have proven to be a valuable partner in the production and distribution of innovative material for mural design such as moss walls, produced in its own manufactory since 2008. Profound expertise, long-term relationships with interior designers and architects, as well as an unabating drive for innovation, ensure that the medium-size family business Freund GmbH steadfastly keeps heading upwards.

TEXT: BENEDIKT MEININGER | PHOTOS: FREUND GMBH

Historians will make out urbanisation to be the decisive imprint of our days. Much like the poets of the Romantic era in England, people today long for traditional materials as a reminder of their natural provenance. A variety of plants, woods, barks and leathers work as counterweights to the fast-paced swirl that makes up our modern lives.The natural materials are radiant with strength, endurance and protection.

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Portrait: Vice-CEO Nina Freund

Innovation in material and products for design purposes are the guideline for Freund GmbH. “Our team is comprised of longserving colleagues as well as young outsidethe-box thinkers,” vice-CEO Nina Freund proudly says about the staff and she continues:“They are a fine blend of dynamics and crisp ideas which inspire the company’s supporting of innovations and the projects resulting from them. Freund GmbH does not stand still – we do not stop!” The output is considerable indeed: a fine variety of materials provide for the contemporary demand and expectations in feel-good atmosphere in interiors.

Freund GmbH work with a range of natural materials – moss, wood, metal, glass, you name it! The aim is to refine surfaces, walls and fronts. Their approach is led by the unobstructed use of forms in and by na-

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Discover Germany | Design | Freund

ture herself. In a sportive game of light and movement, Freund GmbH manage to create unique surfaces and spaces.

The product line is subdivided into the categories of ‘green’, ‘nature’ and ‘elements’. In the green line, only real mosses and plants for green wall elements are used. The mosses in the product lines Evergreen, Greenwood and Greenhill are cleaned and preserved using a special process. As a result, the moss pictures and walls maintain their natural green colour and do not need artificial light, care or fertilisation. Luscious mossy greens playfully sway with terrestrial brown facets as in the ‘nature’ line. Poplar bark makes for four-centimetre thick material en bloc without the need to be glued to support material. The carefully harvested bark pieces are pressed into panels stretching as long as three metres.

Each panel is unique and sturdy for outside as well as inside use.

eight years ago.“It has been proven that an enjoyable, green surrounding increases staff productivity and contentment.” She states and gives insight into another feature of the ‘green’ products:“Their acoustic effects in rooms decrease the stress levels of the working people as distracting noises are reduced in their impact sizes.” Just three examples: behind the bar a plant wall with computer-directed watering system increases air humidity and adds a soothing air to the place. Behind the stair-like arranged dwelling is a cushion moss wall, a smooth source of inspiration. On the upper levels a world map made from moss was installed for decorative and inspirational purposes that also consumes stressful office noises and increases the air quality in return – a classical double-win. A truly fascinating design approach drawing on the wealth of nature! www.freundgmbh.com www.freund-moosmanufaktur.de

In ‘elements’, dancing rivulets minister on the side of partly transparent and metallic materials. In milling progressive and organic shapes a wide spectrum of products are available for spatial refinements. Beech tree bark and cork bark are but two of the materials in use towards this end; which is also where the product line ‘nature’ comes into play. A splendid example of Freund GmbH’s possibilities is the new Europe headquarters for CLINTON fashion. The building was fully equipped with a vast range of mossy structures from the ‘green’ line.

The interior and the roof of the building are greened with conserved or fresh moss walls. The vertical greening technique was first used by Freund GmbH

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Precision in sound - made in Germany

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Audio & Sound

Family business Manger Audio stands for individually handcrafted sound systems which impress with unprecedented precision in sound. When the small German manufactory invented a unique sound transducer around 45 years ago, Manger Audio’s success story began.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: MANGER AUDIO

The idea of founding Manger Audio emerged from the observation that a natural music instrument no longer sounds like an instrument through a loudspeaker.

“Thus, my father Josef W. Manger invented the special Manger sound transducer after many years of research and developing. It has been handcrafted in our manufactory in small quantities since,” smiles Daniela Manger, daughter of Josef W. Manger and CEO of Manger Audio. She adds: “Each component is special and gets made in precise manufacturing steps with tolerances down to thousandths of a millimetre.”

This can definitely be heard. Each of Manger Audio’s sound systems have the meticulous Manger sound transducer at their hearts which impresses with the so-called bending wave principle. Working in the same way as the basilar membrane in our ears, it is the only mechanism that is able to convert acoustic signals temporally and

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tonally correct at the same time. The result is a phenomenal and unrivalled audio experience. “We create sound transducers which make one addicted to music.They are timeless and not only a fad,”notes Daniela Manger. The latter is also reflected in their design. The p1 passive flagship system, for example, impresses with an unpretentious, well-proportioned, timeless design. The pure, crystal-clear sound reproduction follows the same agenda of no frills. A sealed cabinet with a woofer that is able to reproduce even the lowest octaves and carefully handpicked state-of-the-art components are only some of the many technical achievements within the p1.The w1 system, on the other hand, is an attractive on-wall alternative which enables undisturbed sound propagation and impresses with the highest requirements for audiophile reproduction. Both systems can be individualised as Manger Audio is happy to fulfil personal wishes in regards to colour and finishes.

Today, customers from all over the world who seek to listen to music just like in a concert hall or jazz cellar appreciate the honesty of Manger Audio’s products, which are entirely made in Germany.“Our sound systems belong to the world’s best in insider circles. We are happy that we can count musicians like Hubert von Goisern or Nils Petter Molvaer towards our customers,“ Daniela Manger concludes. www.mangeraudio.com

Main image: Manger Audio’s w1 system Portrait: Daniela Manger, CEO of Manger Audio Above: Manger Audio’s p1 system Below: The p1 system in different colours

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Unusual look, exceptional feel, remarkable design At Austrian joinery business Ainhirnholz, design and functionality go hand in hand.

With its natural surfaces and colours, preserved contours, as well as perceptible haptics, the furniture pieces designed and created by Raphael Ainhirn are anything but conventional.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

Starting his professional career in computer science, Raphael Ainhirn soon noticed that he wanted a change. Thus, he enrolled in a carpentry course and, since 2012, has his own workshop in Kumberg.“I simply enjoy working with the material of wood,” he smiles. One significant trademark of his furniture creations is the bicoloured, natural finish which is defined through the high-contrast choice of wood. Another is the exceptional cross-cut wood optics.

Solely using solid timber and trying to integrate as little metal as possible, his furniture also impresses with natural surfaces.“I only use hard oils or hard wax for the finish; never lacquer.That way, the pores don’t get clogged and the wood can breathe.This has positive effects on the room climate.

The contours also get maintained and can be felt in the haptics of the lively raw material of wood,”Raphael adds.

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Ainhirnholz primarily manufactures commissioned work and meticulously implements its customers’ individual wishes through detailed work.“But I constantly try to exceed their expectations,”Raphael says.

While the majority of todays’ furniture pieces are short-lived and manufactured hastily, Ainhirnholz puts special emphasis on details and passionate manual work.

However, while Raphael enjoys realising customer ideas, his true passion lies in designing his own furniture pieces.“I get inspired by my surroundings and, before I know it, I have created something unusual,” Raphael notes. Whether a loudspeaker in a precious solid wood housing, a coffee table set in nut and pear wood, a desk whose lateral silhouette reminds of a skyline, a flower tree which holds numerous plants, or an ingenious wardrobe which can also be used as a staircase, all of Raphael’s creations im-

press with astonishing wood patterns.“This unusual look comes through my unconventional dealings with the front sides of wood,” Raphael says. He adds: “I want to create furniture that lasts across generations.” When one sees Raphael’s creations, this goal is already fundamentally achieved.

His commissioned work for customers, as well as his own imaginative designs, are not the only products which are sure to impress. Raphael Ainhirn recently added smaller accessories, such as bowls or chopping boards, to his portfolio. A perfect gift idea, the products can be bought online. www.ainhirnholz.at Main image: QR cube. Photo: Martin Pabis Above: Desk. Photo: Martin Pabis Coffee table. Photo: Martin Pabis Logo and signature. Photo: Martin Pabis Below: Chopping boards. Photo: Verena Eckert

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Portrait: Claudia Pöpsel

Villa Sorgenfrei Schmuckmanufaktur

Custom jewellery made in Berlin Over the past five years Villa Sorgenfrei have sold 250,000 pieces of jewellery. An extraordinary figure for any independent local enterprise, it is rendered even more impressive when you consider how each individual piece is made by hand in a small atelier in Berlin-Mitte.

lasorgenfreiberlin.de], which allows even more liberty and independence to create distinctive designs, accommodating the constant wealth of new ideas that Claudia feeds into Villa Sorgenfrei.

TEXT & PHOTOS: VILLA SORGENFREI | TRANSLATION: EMMIE COLLINGE

This jewellery brand’s distinctive style is not just popular in Berlin and the rest of Europe, it has chanced upon an ever-growing customer base in Brazil, Korea, Israel, Russia, South Africa, Kuwait and the USA. From Australia to Japan, these ‘made in Berlin’ products are in hot demand.

From its roots in founder, owner and designer Claudia Pöpsel’s living room in 2010, the success story saw her hobby take on new dimensions. Initially Claudia collected vintage jewellery, which she gave a new lease of life by transforming them into new creations. As a release from her hectic former job, she headed to flea markets on weekends. As demand grew, she

turned to online sales as well. Within a few months, her pastime exploded in popularity and she turned her back on her former career, hiring her first temporary members of staff with more to follow. Her apartment, where it had all begun, rapidly turned into a workshop, including client visits.

2012 saw Villa Sorgenfrei move into its first, small atelier, and tackling sales from around the world required Claudia to take on fulltime staff. A year later they upgraded to their current space in Berlin’s Linienstrasse, featuring a showroom, where the huge demand can now be met in person too. 2014 saw the launch of the webshop [www.vil-

The secret to Villa Sorgenfrei’s success story: distinctive jewellery at very fair prices, far removed from mass-produced items; a unique focus on natural materials such as genuine blooms, grasses, petals, leaves; as well as upcycled items of jewellery, created from original pieces from the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s, all meticulously sought and found by Claudia before being reinvented as wholly new designs. This results in the original creations of Villa Sorgenfrei. In 2015, the turnover once more eclipsed the previous year, propelling Villa Sorgenfrei into its sixth year with an everstronger vigour as its success story continues to be written. www.villasorgenfreiberlin.de

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Discover Germany | Design | Inkubus

One cube is all you need

Chunky desktop PCs are usually loud, not very nice to look at and not very practical. Essen-based start-up Inkubus came up with a pretty and powerful alternative: a cube-shaped mini PC that effortlessly integrates itself into any design environment.

are no openings or ports on the visible sides, the monolithic and sculptural Inkubus is usually not identified as a PC at first glance. Moreover, the noise values of an Inkubus only reach 0.15 to 0.6 sone and are therefore similar to your own breathing.

Every single case is 100 per cent handcrafted in Germany, which gives customers the freedom to choose from a range of manufacturing materials, more than 4,500 colours and any additional design features such as pedestals or floating effects. Due to the high-quality workmanship, Inkubus also offers a four-year warranty. www.inkubus.de

TEXT: SONJA IRANI | PHOTOS: INKUBUS

rior design efforts instead of people regarding it as a disposable object that is most likely to be concealed.”

The advantages of the mini PC are at hand: with an edge length of only 207 milimetres, the Inkubus is significantly smaller than the classic tower and thus more practical and space saving. Since there

Margarete Steiff GmbH | Richard-Steiff-Straße 4 | 89537 Giengen/Brenz

Made from wood or Perspex, the Inkubus combines the processing power and the various ports of a classic tower with an individually chosen design.“We wanted to create a design object that is truly unique to every user,” explains Sebastian Voß, cofounder of Inkubus. “It is our mission to make the PC an integral part of your inte-

Giant sized and cuddly

“For children only the best is good enough” www.steiff.com

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Mach dich Fraij!

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Albert Dijkman and Mischa Olma are two young creatives that have stepped away from typical rules and conventions to approach woodwork in a fresh and modern way.

The company’s Dutch side is expressed by the name Fraij, roughly translated from Dutch as “beautiful, pretty and aesthetically pleasing�.

The pair of them have grasped these concepts well.

Albert studied Fine Arts in the Netherlands and Mischa has been self-employed as a photographer, designer DQG ÂżOP SURGXFHU PDNLQJ WKHP ERWK SURIHVVLRQDOV LQ WKHLU ÂżHOGV With Fraij they are now designing high-quality furniture and interior concepts for gastronomy, the workplace, shops or simply for private use.

By the end of 2015, two full collections will be available via their online store.

The mix of Dutch D steigerhout steigerhoutt dedesign, meaning the use of rough tex tex-tured construction ction planks, together metropolitan allu-with the Berlin Berlin in metropo litan allu re makes makes Fraij Fraijj a v very ery unique label.

All products are e handmade from timtimber or recy recycled cled d wood, cre creating ating inteinteresting and rare rare surface structures.

In addition to wood,, iron and conconvarious mate-crete, they use ev arious other mate rials from from road road construction and civil give furniture engineering to giv e the fur niture and urban lamps an ur ban and rugged look. young company’s The y oung compan y’s strengths refreshing come from their t refreshing and creative creativ e product uct design and their modern communication. munication. The two founders have have recently formed a young, mo-team of y oung, g, talented and mo tiv ated artists ts and cr aftsmen. tivated craftsmen.

Fraij creations The latest in Fr aij crea tions are presented to customers and ininterested parties parties es in the new BerBercustomized lin showroom, m, where customiz ed products are being developed developed for private both business s and priv ate use.

www.fraij.com www w.fraij.com

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Hotel of the Month Germany

Relax in Regensburg Regensburg represents everything a foreign visitor would imagine to find in a centuries-old German town. By choosing the Münchner Hof hotel, you can easily explore the city’s famous sites plus experience 2,000 years of history and all the charm and cosiness that comes with a family-led hotel.

TEXT: SONJA IRANI | PHOTOS: MÜNCHNER HOF

In 2014, Regensburg, a medieval city centre that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was among the top sights and travel attractions in Germany. The Münchner Hof hotel is situated right in the centre of the city’s fascinating medieval Old Town, only a stone's throw away from Saint Peter's Cathedral.“Starting from our hotel, you can discover everything that Regensburg has to offer by foot,” says Kathrin Fuchshuber, general manager of the Münchner Hof hotel and its dependence, the Blue Tower, just across the alley. ”Because Regensburg’s medieval city centre has been home to the retail trade for cen-

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turies, you can still see a lot of traditional workmanship here. There are shoemakers, hat makers, brush makers etc. and walking through the small lanes and alleyways, you

will instantly feel as if you have stepped back in time. Equally worthwhile seeing is Regensburg’s famous Stone Bridge across the river Danube, the Regensburger Domspatzen choir that you can hear singing every Sunday morning, the Royal Castle of Thurn und Taxis with our Princess Gloria von Thurn und Taxis and just so much more.”

Location, location, location “To me, our location is absolutely perfect,” gushes Fuchshuber. “We are right in the middle of Old Town.There are no cars, even though you can pull up in front of the hotel with your car in case you would like to load or unload anything. Munich and Nuremberg are both just a one-hour drive away and there are excellent train and bus connections.”The hotel offers several special packages and tailors activity recommendations to every guest individually. In

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Discover Germany | Hotel of the Month | Germany

terms of things to do, the end of November sees the start of four fascinating Christmas markets, including the Romantic Christmas Market at the Thurn und Taxis castle.

During the year, the city’s main theatre will keep visitors entertained – plus there is so much more.“Basically, Regensburg is one big culture and events centre, just without a roof,”says Fuchshuber.

Historical walls with modern charm “The structural substance of our two hotels, the Münchner Hof and the Blue Tower, date back to the 13th century,”says Fuchshuber.

“We refurbish and redecorate on an ongoing basis, but we always make sure that all the old walls, wooden ceilings, floors and glass windows are kept intact.”As a result, the hotels now boast a fascinating mix of the old historical charm and brand new designs from the third millennia.“Out of our 59 rooms, every room tells its own story,” says Fuchshuber. “Some date back to the Gothic times, some to the Renaissance and some to Baroque. During this year’s renovation work, we even found a mummified

cat, which had been walled in alive 700 years ago. Building scarifies like these were meant to protect people from witches, burglaries and fires. It didn’t quite work against the witches. After all, our hotel is managed by women only.”

A family affair The Münchner Hof hotel first opened its doors in 1937 and was initially managed by Hans and Emma Wanninger. In the 1950s, their daughter Karin Helmberger took over and established a four-star hotel that quickly became popular with tourists, business travellers and theatre people alike.

Helmberger’s daughter Kathrin Fuchshuber took over in 2010 – after many years in the communication design industry. “I used to have my own communication design agency in Munich,”she remembers.“But in 1999, I decided to sell my agency in order to move back to Regensburg with my two daughters. I grew up in the Münchner Hof hotel.The lobby was our living room. However, before I made the decision to take over the hotel management, I did some

hands-on work in every area of the hotel in order to see if I like this kind of industry.”So far, she has not regretted her choice. “My employees and guests are the best,” she says and adds what inspires her:“I arrange everything in the hotel according to what I like and feel comfortable with.This, in turn, attracts guests that really match our lifestyle and team spirit.”As it turns out, her strategy has proven to be highly successful. One achievement that Fuchshuber is particularly proud of is the hotel’s 2012 apprenticeship award for training young people in the hotel industry. www.muenchner-hof.de Main image: The city of Regensburg with the Stone Bridge and Saint Peter’s Cathedral. Photo: M. Meyer Above: Culture tip: Music Theatre GOYESCAS / GIANNI SCHICCHI. Photo: J. Quast (left) Christmas tip: Romantic Christmas Market Thurn&Taxis.

Photo: P. Ferstl (middle) Kathrin Fuchshuber’s personal highlight: every Sunday and on holidays, the Domspatzen create the most solemn liturgy in the Cathedral. (right) Portrait: Second and third generation: Karin Helmberger and Kathrin Fuchshuber. Photo: J. Küster Below: Hotel Münchner Hof. Photos: M. Meyer

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Hotel of the Month Switzerland

A warm welcome for everyone Switzerland’s St. Moritz is famous for its endless ski slopes, lavish parties and the flair of jetsetters from all over the world. We all love a bit of luxury, but Hotel Piz St. Moritz goes the extra mile and merges superb facilities with a heartfelt service that makes everyone feel at home. And the best part? It does not come with the high St. Moritz price tag.

that we also offer accommodation for the normal wallet whilst at the same time maintaining a very high standard. Our house is decorated in the Alpine style, the rooms are modern and it is very reasonably priced.”

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: HOTEL PIZ ST. MORITZ

Ski slopes as far as the eye can see. The snow glistens in the sun and the air feels crisp and fresh. That is St. Moritz during winter. Long known as one of the most popular destinations for the rich and famous, St. Moritz has so much more to offer than just lavish parties and expensive hotels.

St. Moritz has many faces indeed, which not only undergo beautiful changes from season to season but also has something for everyone. From skiing, golfing and hiking to high-end boutique fashion and a range

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of diverse events, St. Moritz knows how to attract guests from all over the world.

Supreme accommodation for reasonable prices Hotel Piz is right at the heart of this wonderful village and provides a homely yet sophisticated accommodation and service.

The atmosphere of this rustic hotel with a hint of urban chic exudes style and class.

Owner Patrick Schraemli gives more insight:“What makes our hotel so attractive is

The youthful and professional hotel team puts all their passion into their work and this enthusiastic spirit is contagious. Guests are not just guests, but are treated as old friends who need to be pampered. “We don’t have a specific group of guests. Everyone is welcome here. Aside from our hotel guests we often become hosts for guests who are staying in the surrounding five-star hotels. They like our pleasant informality, the easy atmosphere and the cosy interiors.

The same goes for locals.They feel at home here. Our guests can sense that we welcome everyone,”Schraemli adds.

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Discover Germany | Hotel of the Month | Switzerland

relax whilst enjoying the mountain-top views. With its elegantly designed interiors, the warm atmosphere continues throughout the hotel and there are many spots to stop and take a little break. Staff members truly care about their guests and are also happy to help with questions regarding other spa facilities in the area.

Endless ski slopes, lots of sunshine and legendary parties make St. Moritz one of the most intriguing spots to spend the Christmas holidays. Make sure you pay Hotel Piz a visit. Either to relax as a house guest or simply for a slice of excellent pizza in between snowy mountains. www.piz-stmoritz.ch

Not only the soul needs food Hotel Piz is not only known for its warm attitude and hospitality, but also for its legendary pizzas. “Our hotel has a very big restaurant, which is really popular for lunch and dinner.

We serve Italian and the local Grison cuisine. Our pizzas enjoy a great reputation and we can be proud to be known as Engadin’s best pizzeria,� says Schraemli.

Relaxation starts right here The Alpine chic is also reflected in the wooden interior, which supports the warm, cosy atmosphere. The 25 generously sized rooms are equipped with all the modern amenities and are wonderfully bright.

Aside from the various spa facilities in St. Moritz, Hotel Piz has its own sauna and vapour bath where guests can unwind after their adventures in the snow. The relaxation room invites guests to deeply

From popular local dishes such as Barley Soup Grison Style and classic venison dishes to the outstanding pizzas, every guest will find what their hearts desire. It should come as no surprise that the locals as well as the jetsetter league frequently visit this restaurant and it is advised to book in advance.The cosy interiors skilfully implement wood in various ways and the main room is organically sectioned into different parts.

This gives an inviting flair, yet remains elegant. Its simplicity in combination with architectonic creativity is striking. If you fancy a delicious meal in a truly Alpine surrounding, look no further.

A home from home The genuinely friendly attitude makes this hotel one of a kind in St. Moritz. Well catered for and at the fingertip of various tourist attractions, no matter the season, this is the ideal destination for a weekend trip or a longer holiday.

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The wonderland of pan-Asian cuisine Immerse yourself in an enchanting world of luxury, intensive aromas and sensory perceptions of alluring surprises behind each curtain and of artfully presented culinary creations. Everything is possible in Zurich’s restaurant, bar and club Alice Choo – so come in and find out what is hidden behind the next corner.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: ALICE CHOO SA

When one steps into Alice Choo, one enters an incredible wonderland. Greeted by a dancing octopus and acrobatic artists who hang under the ceiling, it is quickly understood that Alice Choo is not your ordinary restaurant.

Exceptionally beguiling scents soar through the room with its dark, luxurious and slightly sinful interior design. Large, dangling chandeliers, subtle Asian details, mysterious curtains, padded furniture and elegant earth tones create an exclusive ambience. When one sits down on one of the beautifully decorated tables, the traditional is combined with the contemporary and East with the West directly on one’s plate. Exceptionally artful panAsian creations are sure to make everyone’s mouth water. Whether it is the

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crispy aromatic duck salad, mackerel sashimi with coriander leaves which melts in one’s mouth, cucumberavocado-maki with sesame, very delicate salmon and shrimps or tasty lobster marinated with tosazu, Alice Choo impresses with an exceptional cuisine that cannot be found anywhere else in Switzerland.

After dinner, a variety of sweet desserts promise a true taste sensation. While indulging in delicacies, one can listen to the sounds of sizzling meat from the open kitchen or gaze at a juggler on stilts who strolls through the room.

When night falls, guests can head to the bar and sip eccentric cocktails, a rare wine from Alice Choo’s own wine cellar or a glass of champagne. On Friday and Saturday nights, the whole of Alice Choo

Restaurant of the Month Switzerland

transforms into a breathless and intoxicating club. Head to the secretive ‘Rabbit Hole‘ to indulge in an exclusive whisky and cognac collection or the‘Private Hole‘ smokers lounge with its gorgeous ambience, which is sure to not only attract smokers. International acts, exceptional shows and rhythmic beats promise excellent entertainment on two dancefloors.

For those who seek an unforgettable evening with the best Asian fine dining and surprises behind each corner, Alice Choo is definitely the right address. www.alice-choo.ch

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Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Café Royal

Main image: A selection of Café Royal’s best-selling coffee capsules.

Below: Café Royal’s Nescafé®* Dolce Gusto®* Espresso capsules. (left) Doppio espresso capsules. (right) Bottom: Sample tasting in Birsfelden. *These brands are the property of third parties who are not in any way related to Delica AG

Café Royal’s doings. Dr. Raphael Gugerli explains: “We follow a holistic controlling approach. Sustainability starts at the plantation and doesn’t stop with the product shipping or in the supermarket shelves. We also follow our sustainability principles at our headquarters.” Thus, their entire coffee range is certified with the sustainability labels UTZ or Fairtrade.

A Swiss success story Perfect coffee does not only describe the coffee itself. The product’s degree of innovation, unusual packaging, quirky design, sustainability, as well as variety selection are as part of the entire package as the delicious bean itself. The Swiss brand Café Royal, produced by the tradition-steeped Delica AG, successfully follows this philosophy and now captures the entire DACH region.

If one wants to be convinced by the great taste of Café Royal’s Nespresso®*compatible capsules, you can order a free sampler set in Germany and Switzerland. www.cafe-royal.com

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: DELICA AG

Based in Birsfelden, Café Royal’s headquarters are located in the factory of the Delica AG, which is one of the largest roasting companies in Switzerland. For more than 60 years, Delica AG has stood for Swiss coffee roasting expertise and in 2012, its brand Café Royal was born.“We stand in the service of good taste. Our mission is to create the best blends and coffee treats.

We’re not alone on this mission. Our special agent for great taste, Robbie Williams, has spread our message since 2014,”Delica AG’s managing director Dr. Raphael Gugerli smiles. Their vast coffee variety does not only please celebrity palates. Café Royal’s bestsellers are coffee capsules which are compatible with the Nespresso®* and Nescafé®* Dolce Gusto®* systems. Participants in independent consumer tests, as well as coffee and gastronomy experts, praise Café Royal for its perfect crema and

great variety such as almond, dark roast or double espresso capsules. Other products provided are iced coffees, which impress with unusual design and types such as double fat or caramel. Of course, exceptional bean coffee variations are also part of their portfolio.

“We surprise and have the courage to strike out in new directions in a quite conservative industry,” Dr. Raphael Gugerli says. Café Royal’s secret is the perfect interplay between sourcing, blending, roasting, grinding and great design. The company’s own R&D team constantly develops new blends and improves existing products. “Each of our blends has its own roasting curve and the grinding process is individually adjusted,” Dr. Raphael Gugerli says. Furthermore, sustainability and diligence across the entire supply chain are at the core of

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Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Restaurant top air

A Michelin-star rated restaurant is Stuttgart airport’s best feature For 24 years now the restaurant top air is holding a Michelin star for its outstanding dishes. In November 2015, the team around head chef Marco Akuzun defended their success, making their restaurant the only star-honoured restaurant at a European airport – again.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: RESTAURANT TOP AIR

Thirty-four-year-old Marco Akuzun, a rising star among chefs, was awarded his first Michelin star two years ago and defended it last year and this year again.“Of course we did our best, because that is something we always do,”he says.“We do not bear a star in mind, but always our guests. No matter if they are passengers, business people or those who simply enjoy good food.”

And great wines: for 20 years now sommelier and restaurant manager Ralf Pinzenscham helps guests to make the right choice.

The restaurant top air is one of only few German restaurants holding a Michelin star

continuously for so many years. It is not the only proof of the restaurant’s quality: Gault-Millau 2016 rates the restaurant with 15 points and, in summer 2015, US broad-

caster CNN declared it to be one of the best airport restaurants worldwide.

Restaurant top air is not only for passengers or flight enthusiasts, but for everyone taking a delight in great food and outstanding wines. Next to á la carte and fixed menus, the restaurant also caters individual wishes when booking the restaurant for a business event, celebrations or weddings.

The gourmet restaurant first opened its doors in 1984 and is part of the Wöllhaf group, a company operating various restaurants, cafés, conference centres, bars and shops at German international airports. www.restaurant-top-air.de

Feel the fascination, will be the best of your life. www.mayrhofner-bergbahnen.com

Penken. Der Actionberg der

So müssen Berge sein.

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Attraction of the Month Switzerland

In the footsteps of a genius Discover the Einstein Museum in Bern This year, the Einstein Museum in Bern is in a festive mood. Various jubilees and the continuing popularity of the museum are a cause for celebration – and an excellent reason to accompany the genius on his life’s journey.

TEXT & PHOTOS: EINSTEIN MUSEUM IN THE BERNISCHES HISTORISCHES MUSEUM

Bern’s Einstein Museum has a number of reasons to celebrate: It is ten years since the opening, during the EinsteinYear 2005, of the special exhibition marking the centenary of the publication of the Theory of Relativity. Over an area of 1,000 square metres, excellently presented original objects, writings and films provide an insight into the life of the physicist Albert Einstein, as well as illustrating the most important historical events of his time. Both private and professional aspects of Einstein’s life are highlighted, revealing the person behind the genius. Romantic relationships and dramas are covered, as is the fascinating world of the 1920s. Other central themes include the horror of the Holo-

caust and the dropping of the atom bomb on Hiroshima.

500,000 visitors Ten years ago, in view of its enormous success, the decision was taken to present the exhibition permanently. Since then, the museum’s popularity has not waned and so far there have been 500,000 visitors, many of them from abroad. Last year, for example, people from 54 different countries and from all continents visited the exhibition. An audio guide in nine languages (German, French, English, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Hebrew, Japanese and Chinese) makes the Einstein Museum accessible to a broad international public.

Centenary of the publication of the General Theory of Relativity Ten years after publishing his Special Theory of Relativity, Albert Einstein completed his General Theory of Relativity in 1915. The year 2015 marks the centenary of this sensational discovery and thus again puts Albert Einstein in the international spotlight. Why not take this opportunity to visit the Einstein Museum and wonder at the impressive legacy of this brilliant physicist?

The Einstein Museum in the Bernisches Historisches Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm and closed on Mondays. Audio guides are available in nine languages (German, French, English, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Hebrew, Japanese and Chinese). www.einsteinmuseum.ch

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Top Swiss Spas

Bad Zurzach Thermal Spa Rejuvenate your body and soul The Swiss gem Bad Zurzach offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for all guests; single travellers, families, and romantic couples. The state-of-the-art wellness amenities, beautiful facilities and comprehensive treatments put guests in a feel good mood in Switzerland’s largest open-air thermal spa.

roundels, flow pools with refreshing waterfalls and a Kneipp cold water treading pool are as much a part of the sensual pleasure as the professional water aerobics that take place every hour.

TEXT: ELISABETH DOEHNE | PHOTOS: BAD ZURZACH THERMAL SPA

SPA, or Salus Per Aqua, means ‘health through water’. And for 60 years, Bad Zurzach’s thermal water and spa have been a magnet for wellness and health. Whether you want to unwind, rejuvenate, find balance or indulge in a little pampering, the Swiss town is an oasis of wellness and health that is only 30 to 40 minutes away from the metropolitan Zurich.

A welcoming atmosphere and the many wellness treatments characterise the relaxed and enjoyable ambiance. In 1914, hot

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spring water was discovered in Bad Zurzach by chance while drilling for salt.

Today, guests can relax all year round in Switzerland's largest open-air thermal spa.

Traditional Swiss thermal water The healing thermal water bubbles to the surface from the Glauber's salt spring from a depth of about 430 metres. Four open-air pools with a surface area of 2,000 square metres and temperatures between 32 and 36 degrees provide a truly unique bathing experience. Bubble benches, loungers and

Thermal water at 39.9 degrees Celsius gushes to the surface every day from the alkaline Glauber's salt spring. At Sal Aqua Natura, the new wellness complex opened in autumn 2013, guests re-energise in a natural swimming pool, non-nude saunas, crystal steam bath, a three-story sauna rig and an intensive saltwater pool. The four large outdoor pools feature massage nozzles, a flowing bath, waterfall and neck jets.

Relax in style The four wellness hotels (ranging from two-star to four-star experiences) at Bad

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Discover Germany | Culture | Top Swiss Spas

Zurzach feature professional infrastructure, premium personal service and direct underground access to the wellness complex.

This means you can walk directly from your room to the spa area! You will also find a varied range of health and wellbeing facilities: classic wellness massages, medical wellness and beauty treatments. All this against a lovely backdrop of rolling hills with countless enticing options for excursions, gentle walks or challenging sports activities. Let your body and mind relax as you savour supreme culinary delights in a serene ambience.

embark on sightseeing trips, hikes, wine tours, and bicycle tours.The town’s location, close to the German border and nestled in the beautiful Rhine Valley nature, offers many tourism possibilities. www.badzurzach.info

“Bad Zurzach’s spa experience is truly different in that we have a long tradition of being the premier Swiss wellness resort. In the last two years, the entire thermal spa was renovated and updated so that today we have one of the most modern spas,”explains Peter Schläpfer, CEO of Bad Zurzach Tourism.

All year round experience Some resorts are great to visit in the winter while others thrive in the summer –but Bad Zurzach manages to be a true year-round destination.“In the cold winter months, the thermal spa is especially beautiful. Lights illuminate the pools and guests enjoy the special atmosphere of bathing in natural, hot thermal water,”says Schläpfer. He adds that: “In December the town’s Christmas market transforms Bad Zurzach into a Christmas village.”

Distances:

In addition to the spa and thermal pools, the spa has a special Papa Moll children pool, an intensive saltwater bath with an underwater sound system, a hot and cold pool, 14 saunas, footbaths and a wide range of massages and gym offers, nutrition counselling, and cosmetic treatments. Enjoy the positive effects of the Bad Zurzacher Glauber salt spring in the rest room, the spacious sunbathing areas, or the natural pool. Pamper yourself with vitamin-rich drinks at the poolside bar!

Zurich airport (30 km) Basel (65 km)

Enjoy your stay - see the sights!

The Thermal Spa and Bad Zurzach Getting there: The Thermal Spa and Bad Zurzach are accessible by air, train or multiple highways from major Swiss and German cities.

Freiburg (90 km)

In addition to pure relaxation and pleasant idleness at the hotel grounds, all guests can

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Discover Germany | Culture | Top Swiss Spas

A wellness experience of a different kind The Pharaoh Cleopatra swore by a bath in milk. In the heart of Switzerland, between the Klausen Pass and the Walensee, one can enjoy the very same relaxing procedure.

High up on the Berglialp, hot whey baths, comfortable accommodation and local Swiss food make the perfect getaway.

TEXT: INA FRANK | PHOTOS: KARL-HEINZ HUG / URSI MARTI KAMER

After a two-hour ascent, a wonderful recreation from the strenuous hike awaits visitors: a relaxing dip in one of the outdoor larch wood tubs, which offer space for up to eight people. Guests can choose from a large range of essences for their baths: from honey to olive oil or mare's milk with its maintaining effect for the skin, there is something for everyone. A very special and exclusive experience is a bath in whey. The whey is extracted during the production process of the alp's own cheese.“In the past people used whey treatments because of the lipid regulating and anti-inflammatory effect,”Ursi Marti-Kamer, one of the alp’s

owners, reports. A pleasant bath combined with the panoramic view of the mountains creates an unparalleled relaxing experience.

For over 20 years people have been visiting the alp, which has been gradually equipped with overnight accommodation facilities. Now guests may choose from three charming rustic dormitories. Traditional Swiss dishes like Älplermagronen (a stew made of pasta, potatoes, cream, cheese and onions) and a ride on the cable car make the short holiday truly perfect. www.molkenbad.ch

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Special Theme

Wellness, Health & Beauty

Everything for the mind, body and soul Unforgettable wellness days, beautiful sauna facilities, rest and reading rooms, heated beds, swimming ponds, a Japanese Zen garden with a tea house, restaurants, sun terraces with panoramic views over the beautiful landscape and probably the most popular tennis camp. All of this is united in the Tennis Wellness Garden in Waging am See in Bavaria.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: TENNIS WELLNESSGARTEN WAGING AM SEE

Only 25 kilometres from Salzburg, the resort is offering absolutely everything for the mind, body and soul.The spa and wellness area with surrounding gardens is connected to a modern hotel and high-quality tennis facilities. People, who look for sport, wellness and culinary adventures during their holidays, will find their perfect destination here.

Owner Sepp Baumgartner says:“People that come to us, look for relaxation and activity at the same time.”A comprehensive sauna

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landscape with eight saunas invites for a top-class spa day. Individual facials, pleasant massages, special treatments with highquality ingredients, meditation with the help of singing bowls or a bath with aromatic fragrance essences in the floating Soft Pack recliner, act like a fountain of youth.

Additionally, for every booked wellness treatment, a whole day in the Wellness Garden is included for free. Swimming ponds, over 500 different trees, plants and flowers, candles at night and a beautiful water landscape invite for extensive relaxation.

Located directly at the garden, two restaurants pamper visitors with a sundeck, beer garden, daily sumptuous breakfast buffet and regional and international delicacies from a French gourmet cook.

After a relaxing day, the Wellness Garden Hotel, which opened its gates in 2014, offers everything from elegant rooms to suites.“Escape the everyday routine and inhale relaxation” – this is the motto for the stay.

Fifteen modern, lovingly decorated rooms are available in the new modern Tennis Hotel, an oasis with a private character.The hotel, with its generous rooms, is filled with surprising details for comfort and wellbeing. Highlights are the fully integrated, fully glazed showers and bathrooms, the big terraces with heated beds, as well as the garden rooms with terrace and direct access

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to the swimming pond or the romantic rooms with whirlpool and panoramic views over the landscape.

Training with the world champion For the active ones out there, right next to the wellness garden and hotel, you can find probably the most famous tennis camp in Germany. Located in the prealpine landscapes, only 25 kilometres away from Mozart’s birthplace of Salzburg, not only the beautiful location is attracting tennis players from around the world.

Beginners to professional tennis enthusiasts want to experience the rare opportunity one can enjoy at Waging am See: personal training from none other than the German Champion of tennis instructors, the European Senior Champion, the World Champion of Ski and Tennis combination, the International German Champion and the owner of four trainer licences, Sepp Baumgartner.

During week-long half-day or full-day courses, courses for young ones and tennis weekends, young and old tennis enthusiasts from hobby to tournament players,

have the chance to substantially increase their know-how, to gain physical fitness and to improve their tactics and techniques.

condition, technique and tactics. Of course, the courts can be used for fun games in the visitors’free time too.

Sepp Baumgartner’s training camp is known for its high learning factor and its philosophy to create high-quality and intensive training with fun.The team of trainers is equipped with comprehensive tournament experience and at the start of the training, a competent analysis of the tennis skills of every individual guest is conducted to take individual needs into account. Based on this, a special training concept can be developed, which fosters strengths and slowly removes weaknesses.

After an exhausting tennis training session, the wellness garden, which is located directly next to the camp, invites guests for relaxation. The entry is even free for tennis camp participants and discounts are offered on special massages.

Vouchers for wellness days, restaurants, shops or overnight stays can be bought online. www.wellnessgarten.de

Fun is a key component of the camp’s philosophy so that the joy in tennis grows almost all by itself in this relaxed atmosphere.

The friendly ambience and homely feel is especially appreciated by the guests.

Four hall courts with ball collecting machines, eight sandy outdoor courts and a speed measurement machine are available for the effective training. Sepp Baumgartner also relies on video analysis and even offers a special course for improving mental strength.

Apart from the courses, which are offered all year long, small group training or individual lessons can also be given to improve

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Far-reaching regeneration with an Ayurveda treatment in the heart of Germany “In sync, four hands spread warm oil over my entire body, and the slow, languorous movements of the two therapists draw me further into a sense of detachment. Eventually I’m wrapped in pleasantly warm towels, lying in a state of tranquillity. The cells of my body feel alive yet calm at the same time. A therapist pours oil gently over my forehead and I sink into weightlessness. I’m basking in a state of deep relaxation to an extent I’ve never felt before.”

TEXT & PHOTOS: MAHARISHI AYURVEDA PRIVATKLINIK BAD EMS

What sounds purely like a satisfied client after a wellness treatment, is in fact referring to an ancient healing system of natural and holistic medicines, which dates back thousands of years to the Himalayas. Having proven an effective antidote to chronic illnesses, it is considered an insider tip amongst stressed-out contemporaries, regarding it as the key to modern ailments such as burnout, depression and anxiety.

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Literally translated as ‘the science of life’, Ayurveda has been practised to great success at the Maharishi Ayurveda Health Centre in Bad Ems since 1992, and it is now Europe’s leading private Ayurveda clinic.

Over 1,200 light-flooded square metres in the Kaiserflügel [Emperor’s Wing] of Häcker’s Grand Hotel Bad Ems on the banks of the Lahn, 90 members of staff tend to guests from Germany and across the globe, using therapies from the ancient Indian healthcare system.

Testament to the clinic’s outstanding quality are the numerous accolades, such as the current edition of the Relax Guide which once again commends the clinic for its‘exceptional performance’, and the growing and overwhelmingly popular coverage from the media.

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At the core of the Ayurveda Privatklinik Bad Ems is the classic Ayurvedic treatment of Panchakarma, which translates as ‘five cleansing actions’. A system of perfectly coordinated therapeutic treatments, it follows three consecutive steps to gently yet profoundly release metabolism’s waste products and toxins from the body: loosening, mobilising and eliminating. In this way, Panchakarma eliminates the basic cause of many diseases, and incites the natural healing process.

The Maharishi Ayurveda Health Centre in Bad Ems relies exclusively on the work of doctors with decades of experience and exceedingly well-trained therapists.

Naturally, the emphasis of the treatments is adjusted depending on the disease and the individual, as well as the individual’s current phase of life, with each Panchakarma programme individually customised for one’s current physical strength. All of the treatments undertaken strengthen the body’s natural self-healing powers, which works to enable every client to prevent diseases from developing as well as effectively alleviating any current symptoms.

According to Ayurveda, life is governed by three principles: Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Known as ‘doshas’, these guiding principles form the foundation of any individual’s physical, spiritual and psychological state. They control our body and soul’s sense of wellbeing by regulating the delicate balance of Vata, Pitta and Kapha. If the doshas are in harmony, then Ayurveda dictates that we will not only be healthy, but also happy.

During an extensive initial consultation, the Ayurveda doctor will determine an individual’s constitution as well as the state of their dosha balance with regards to the current prevalent pain or illness. Subsequently, all of the therapies, nutritional advice and behavioural recommendations are tailored to systematically rebuild the individual’s current imbalance.

cultural town with architectural masterpieces, sculptures in the Kurpark and concerts and performances in the theatre of the Kurhaus.

Just a few days of this effective and proven therapy seems like a holiday with longlasting recuperative value and a tangible boost to your health – and the extra bonus is the ease of its location in Germany, eliminating the hassle of a long-haul flight.

Treatable diseases include vegetative disorders, stress-related illness, cardiovascular diseases, diseases of the digestive system, metabolic disorders, joint and spine ailments, respiratory diseases, allergies, skin diseases, gynaecological diseases, diseases of the urogenital tract, eye diseases, diseases caused by environmental toxins, nervous disorders, autoimmune diseases and accompanying cancer therapies. www.ayurveda-badems.de

A Panchakarma treatment at Bad Ems is accompanied by an extensive programme of activities such as yoga and breathing exercises, Gandharva-Veda music therapy, presentations and talks by the Ayurvedatrained doctors and health consultants, a series of videos about Maharishi Ayurveda, concerts and much more.The spa hotel features a newly renovated, spacious wellness and spa landscape with a host of saunas and pools alongside its thermal swimming pool that is fed from a healing spring.

The incomparable level of comfort of a Grand Hotel is a further benefit.Virtually all of the exclusive rooms offer stunning views over both the Lahn and the beautiful neoclassical and Art Nouveau villas of the old Bad Ems. Located in the Lahn valley’s nature reserve, the Bad Ems spa is surrounded by the wooded slopes of the Taunus and Westerwald. Bad Ems is also a thriving

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Natural and simply beautiful results If one seeks more self-confidence, a radiant appearance or a well-shaped and aesthetic body, one should head to the plastic and aesthetic surgery practice of Dr. med. Svenja Giessler in Munich. Not your usual practice, Dr. Giessler and her small team of female employees ensure personal attention 24 hours a day, long-term experience and a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: CHRISTIAN VOGEL

“We feel better when we look great. If one dreams about improved looks, we can fulfil this dream. Thereby, our patients’wishes and needs are always at the centre of our attention,”smiles Dr. Giessler. The doctor’s impressive résumé begins at Ulm’s AlbertEinstein University. After successfully completing her medicine studies in 1999, Dr. Giessler worked in numerous large hospitals in Berlin, Ludwigshafen and Vogtareuth. Most recently, she worked as a senior doctor in the department for plastic surgery in Vogtareuth’s treatment centre, where she was also assigned with holding

40 | Issue 33 | December 2015

special consultation hours about the topic of ‘aesthetic surgery’, as well as with the special support of breast patients. “I no-

ticed that this creative field is exactly what I want to do and then I worked towards my examination for becoming specialist doctor for plastic and aesthetic surgery,” Dr. Giessler notes. Since January 2008, that dream has become reality with the opening of her own practice.

State-of-the-art breast treatments Despite offering almost the entire spectrum of non-operative and operative plas-

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tic and aesthetic surgery procedures, Dr. Giessler’s main specialist area is breast surgery. “I believe that well-shaped breasts strengthen a woman’s self-confidence and I see breast enlargement as the perfect solution for sensual and female breasts,” Dr. Giessler notes. Offering breast enlargement by means of silicone implants, as well as by means of body fat, breast reduction measures, breast lifts, the treatment of retracted nipples or breast surgery for men are also part of Dr. Giessler’s portfolio.

Using the progressive, gentle and minimal scarring breast reduction method of Canadian medical specialist Dr. Hall-Findlay, Dr. Giessler’s results are impressive. Compared to other breast reduction techniques, the nipple remains connected to the mammary gland and the strong vessels of the upper part of the breast tissue and is moved upwards easily by rotating the pedicle in its new position. In addition, liposuction is performed to reduce the base of the breast.

The advantages of this method are plentiful. Firstly, it is suitable for all breast sizes and there is long-term and sustainable breast shaping. Furthermore, there remains a permanent circulation of the nipple and thus, full preservation of sensitivity and protection of the pectoral muscle. Finally, the operations take approximately two hours instead of three to four, with only one short and pain-free day in hospital, as well as beautiful solutions with minimum scarring.“I’m very thankful that I found out about this method. At the moment, there are only a few specialist doctors in Germany who are able to carry out this innovative method in a correct and successful way,”Dr. Giessler smiles. No matter which type of breast surgery one might chose, Dr. Giessler is an experienced doctor who has

made this male and female anatomical feature her specialism throughout her education and now in her career. Her all-female team of three employees deeply understand the needs of their female patients.

“We have a female view on to things.Thus, during a breast enlargement surgery, we can assess when breasts are simply too big.

Furthermore, when a patient seeks to undergo labia minora reduction surgery, we are able to offer full discretion and a substantial understanding of the intimate topic,” Dr. Giessler explains. Yet despite whether a client is old or young, man or woman, the Giessler team is sure to offer a fully personal service and trustful, individual medical consultation.“We support our patients from the very first moment until after the procedure,”Dr. Giessler adds.

ment with hyaluronic acid or Botox, lip shaping and enlargement, liposuction, abdominoplasty, corrective surgery of the ear, upper arm lifts, removal of birthmarks or moles, as well as operative and nonoperative scar treatments. Dr. Giessler’s portfolio also includes labia minora reductions and several laser treatments, such as facelifts, hair removals, acne treatment or spider vein eradications using the BroadBand Light (BBL) system by Sciton. Hand rejuvenation measures and treatment of trigger finger or carpal tunnel syndrome are also available. A new offer in Dr. Giessler’s practice is the innovative ‘coolsculpting’, which enables body fat reduction without any surgery in a low-risk and gentle way.

With the help of cryolipolysis, which describes targeted undercooling, fat cells can be reduced in the long term.

Beautifying from head to toe Offering surgical techniques at the highest level, she constantly aims to gain further education to be able to offer only the best for patients. Other services provided include eyelid and upper eyelid lifting, wrinkle treat-

Available 24 hours a day, it is no wonder that the friendly, modern and light practice has accumulated incredibly content patient reviews online.“I simply love to be part of improving someone’s self-perception and I constantly try to do as much as possible to make my patients happy and satisfied with the results,”she notes. www.plastische-chirurgie-giessler.de Main image: Dr. Svenja Giessler’s modern and light practice.

Above: Dr. Svenja Giessler and a patient.

Portrait: Dr. Svenja Giessler Far left: The all-female team: Iris Wagner, Andrea Enders and Dr. Svenja Giessler (from left to right).

Left: Employee Julia Kramer

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Beauty for the body is beauty for the soul Many people feel uncomfortable in their own skin due to malformations or illnesses, such as stretch marks, hyperhidrosis or an abdominal wall which is not firm enough. Berlin-based plastic and aesthetic surgeon Peyman Bamdad seeks to fundamentally support his patients on their quest for more individual beauty.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: PEYMAN BAMDAD I ERIC THEVENET

Helping men and women to gain inner happiness, balance and a self-confident appearance requires an experienced doctor with great empathy – just like Peyman Bamdad. In his practice in Berlin-Dahlem, the doctor offers numerous operative and non-operative methods to help his patients feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Offering treatment quality at the highest medical and scientific level, he is sure to meet his clients’ individual needs and wishes. After his medical studies at the FU Berlin and the Faculdade de Medicina in Brazil’s Fortaleza, Peyman Bamdad worked

42 | Issue 33 | December 2015

at the renowned specialist clinic in Muenster where he was entrusted with aesthetic

surgeries and was assistant doctor for oncological-reconstructive surgery. Following this career chapter, Peyman Bamdad started in Potsdam’s well-known Ernst von Bergmann clinic where he deepened his expertise in aesthetic surgery. Then, in January 2013, his own practice for aesthetic and plastic surgery in Berlin-Dahlem opened. “I love the creativity this specific field demands,”Peyman Bamdad smiles.

Holistic beautification

Portrait: Peyman Bamdad

Specialising on face, breast and fat removal surgeries, Peyman Bamdad puts minimally invasive and scar-sparing techniques at the forefront of his doings. Thus, the aesthetic and plastic surgeon’s results are sure to last and impress with their natural looks. His face operations include aesthetic upper and lower eyelid lifts, forehead, as well as eyebrow, lifts, mentoplasty, lipofilling for face

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and cheek or ear surgery. Of course facelifts are also part of his portfolio. To achieve a lasting rejuvenation of the face and neck, Peyman Bamdad uses the so-called HighSMAS-Facelift method. The doctor explains: “A facelift doesn’t mean lifting of the facial skin in contrast to the widely spread opinion. Solely lifting the facial skin is ineffective and doesn’t last. Thus, our essential surgery step happens in the subcutaneous tissue, the so-called SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurosis System).”

A High-SMAS lift raises the midface, the mouth’s corners, as well as sagging cheeks and is known for its lasting, natural results.

A simultaneous lipofilling with autologous fat leads to a correction of volume loss and a holistic contours improvement.

Whether one seeks breast enlargement or breast reduction surgery, Peyman Bamdad knows exactly what to do. Solely using breast implants with EU quality seals, Peyman Bamdad puts special emphasis on a discrete incision to implement the implants.

Thus, the scar is almost entirely invisible.

“Even though a breast enlargement is a routine procedure, an intensive consultation and comprehensive, individual examination is needed,”Peyman Bamdad adds.

The practice’s breast reduction surgeries impress with special surgery methods and scar-sparring techniques so that a healthy size and aesthetic form is achieved. Breast lifts to remove sagging and excess skin are also part of Bamdad’s portfolio. Gynaecomastia, which describes a benign enlargement of breast tissue in males, is also treated.

practice. Whether wrinkle treatment with Botox, hyaluronen injections, skin rejuvenation through Dermapen or a HydraFacial with microdermabrasion, the doctor can help. Last but not least, reconstructive surgery is another one of Bamdad’s special fields. His reconstructive measures include the reconstruction of eyelids, the removal of skin cancer or scars, nipple corrections, treatment of malformations on the breasts, as well as the removal of benign regeneration of the skin, such as lipomas or atheromas.

discreet, individual and holistic support by the Peyman Bamdad and his two friendly employees. Their high medical expertise, as well as the fact that they are available 24 hours a day for their patients, make them stand out. “After all, we don’t offer mass processing. The foundation of a successful treatment is a trustful doctor-patient relationship. We simply want to achieve the highest satisfaction of our patients and the best possible results,”Peyman Bamdad concludes.

The practice in Berlin-Dahlem impresses with a relaxed ambience which is far from usual practice surroundings. The tasteful design of the rooms reflects Peyman Bamdad’s distinctive sense for aesthetics and it can be seen and felt that beauty in its entire complexity is his passion, calling and profession. Patients appreciate the competent,

www.bamdad.de

Main image: Waiting area of Peyman Bamdad’s practice.

Above: Entrance to Peyman Bamdad’s practice. (left) Peyman Bamdad’s practice. (right) Below: Patient before (left) and after (right) a High-SMAS facelift.

Other surgeries offered are abdominoplasties, upper arm and upper thigh lifts, removal of stretch marks or treatment of hyperhidrosis. Surgical liposuction, as well as non-surgical liposuction, is also carried out in the Berlin practice. Using the innovative Coolsculpting method, Peyman Bamdad is able to quickly remove unwanted body fat without the need for surgery through freezing. Only available five times in Berlin, Coolsculpting is said to be safe and permanent while no anaesthesia or rest time is needed. Those who seek anti-aging measures are also right at Peyman Bamdad’s

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A place of rest and relaxation Amidst the impressive scenery of the Northern Black Forest lies the Hotel Berlins KroneLamm. Culinary delights, an extensive wellness offer and many sports opportunities make sure that both holiday makers and business travellers can enjoy their stay to the fullest.

one could possibly ask for. Whether it is swimming in the pool or massages and peelings, guests are spoilt for choice. In 2016, they can also look forward to a new sauna area.

TEXT: INA FRANK | PHOTOS: BERLINS HOTEL KRONELAMM

The four-star Superior Wellness Hotel Berlins KroneLamm in Zavelstein is a family business in the second generation. Guests can relax in 62 rooms, located either in the parent house Hotel Krone, which is decorated in country style, or in the main house Hotel Lamm. All rooms feature the latest technological amenities and ready-packed swim bags for the wellness area königSPA. The many different offers provided fulfil every guest's wish, be that a focus on wellness, trying varying gourmet menus or hiking with a personal coach.“As many couples come to our hotel, the offer ‘Hautnah bei Dir’ (‘close to you’), which includes a candlelight dinner and relaxing in the floating bathtub, is particularly liked,”Elisabeth Berlin, hotel management, says. In December, it is the feast days' offering that outshines: at Christmas time, one can indulge in a buffet on Christmas Eve, join a walk

44 | Issue 33 | December 2015

through the winter forest or enjoy drinking punch and singing Christmas carols together with the hotel staff. “At the hotel you can feel as part of a big family,” Elisabeth Berlin adds. On New Year’s Eve, one can party into the new year with live music and recharge one’s batteries the next day with a late brunch.

For foodies, the culinary offer at Berlins KroneLamm equals with paradise. The gourmet restaurant Berlins Krone, with its Michelin star and 17 Gault Millau points, assures absolute culinary delectation and an ambiance that invites you to feel comfortable. The hotel attaches great importance to using locally sourced food for the ever-changing menus, as to assure longterm sustainability.

The hotel's königSPA is a haven of recreation with all the relaxation opportunities

The more active visitors can use the fitness room or explore the hiking and mountain bike paths right on the hotel's doorstep.

For business travellers, conference rooms with the latest technology are available, and after some hours of work one can bring the day to a close in the spa. www.berlins-hotel.de

Above: The salt chamber.

Turmstube - one of the rooms in the restaurant Berlins Lamm.

Hotel Lamm’s Traumbett Juniorsuite.

Below: The new panoramic terrace of the restaurant .

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Fast, fun and highly effective Active muscles are the key to a well-functioning body, health, fitness, wellbeing and an attractive outer appearance as well as the basis for all physical and mental performance abilities. With so-called electro muscle stimulation (EMS), Germanybased fitness device supplier miha bodytec helps you develop those muscles, save time and enjoy working out.

TEXT: SONJA IRANI | PHOTOS: MIHA BODYTEC

“The way our EMS devices work is radically new,” says Jürgen Decker, CEO at miha bodytec. “Agonist and antagonist as well as the deeper lying spine-stabilising muscles are stimulated by electric impulses at the same time. This allows for a gentle and effective targeted training of both specified muscles groups and the body as a whole.”

Exercising with EMS also leads to the desired results quickly.“A session of 20 minutes once a week is enough,”says Decker.

“Thus, EMS fits our modern lifestyles perfectly. More and more people don’t like to devote endless chunks of their precious time to long work-out sessions.”

All of miha bodytec’s EMS programmes are based on scientific studies and have been developed with research partners such as the German Sport University Cologne, the University of Erlangen/ Nuremberg and the heart and diabetes centre of North Rhine Westphalia. “The most important aspect of our product development, however, is that we are delivering premium value to the end consumer as well as easy handling,” explains the CEO. This approach quickly led miha bodytec, founded in 2007 in Gersthofen near Augsburg, to become a true“global player”. Today, their products

are available in more than 30 countries and they are still growing.

There are several places where EMS can be tried and tested: with a mobile personal trainer, as a course in your favourite fitness studio or in a specialised EMS-studio that offers EMS training only. As a standard procedure, working out with miha bodytec always comes with a professional introduction and ongoing, personal support. The focus is on the customer and his or her personal goals at all times.“This guarantees the highest possible level of efficiency, results that can be seen and measured instantly – and happy customers,” smiles Decker. www.ems-training.de www.miha-bodytec.com

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Bringing the best of nature to Berlin - The new world of Weleda Since 1921 – a time when the term ‘organic’ was barely heard of - Weleda stands for purely natural and organic cosmetics. A brand new atelier style shop now brings the Swiss treasures of nature to Germany’s capital.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: WELEDA

All Weleda products are based on the principles of holistic anthroposophic findings, and wherever possible natural ingredients are sourced bio-dynamically, ensuring organic and sustainable horticultural standards. Strict quality control and the principle of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) are cornerstones of the Weleda production process.

scious users such as vegans and vegetarians.“Identifying the true nature of a plant and utilising it to achieve a holistic impact on body, mind and vital energy shows: the secret of the Weleda product compositions is to be found in nature,”René Tanneberger, managing director at Berlin’s new shop atelier, explains. And he continues: “Our products are cherished by people who live in harmony with nature, who deeply care about their body and mind as well as the environment. Trends show that consumers are turning ever more critical and more conscious when it comes to making decisions of what to buy, what to wear and what skin care products to use.”

Plants like arnica, calendula or sea buckthorn are the bare essentials, being transformed into effective products suitable for even the most sensitive and health con-

Taking a closer look at the skin care range, different skin requirements are matched with certain core plants. The Wild Rose range tackles fine lines at 30 plus, while

Located in Berlin Mitte’s Brunnenstrasse 5, the entire collections for body, face and baby are beautifully exhibited on 170 square metres. It is an inspiring place of discovery good vibes and bundled scientific knowledge, ready to be explored by nature lovers.

46 | Issue 33 | December 2015

the Pomegranate range helps the 40 plus skin to regenerate. Mature skin is best cared for with Evening Primrose essence. Weleda has truly convinced generations of customers around the globe.“Many of our customers already grew up with Weleda and when it comes to taking care of their own offspring, they trust Weleda and use our baby products,” Tanneberger says.

Weleda products are available in selected stores, online and of course in the new flagship store in the heart of Berlin. www.weleda.com

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Two surgeons help to boost the self-esteem of their patients The group clinic Pelzer Czermak in Heidelberg is specialised on plastic, aesthetic and hand surgery.

TEXT: NADINE CARSTENS

In 2014, about 75,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in Germany. In about 20 to 30 per cent, patients have to face the complete removal of the breast. On the plus side, surgeons are able to reconstruct breasts nowadays. Dr. Michael Pelzer M.D. and Dr. Christoph Czermak M.D. already look back at 30 years of experience in this field. They are specialised on reconstructive breast surgery using skin tissue or implants.

“Re-establishing the female body image can contribute to improving both the posture and the self-esteem of the patient,”says Dr. Pelzer. However, the surgeons’group practice Pelzer Czermak in Heidelberg is not only focused on reconstructive plastic surgery, but also on aesthetic surgery and hand surgery.

“With about 100 reconstructions per year, we mainly treat women who had breast

cancer,” Dr. Czermak states. Furthermore, many of the patients visit the medical practice for a breast enlargement or breast reduction. The medics additionally offer arm and thigh lifts, eyelid surgeries, as well as abdominoplasty operations.

On the other hand, a lot of their patients are athletes or musicians who have a hand disorder that could end their career if it is not being treated. In cooperation with colleagues from the St. Elisabeth Hospital in Heidelberg, Dr. Pelzer and Dr. Czermak take care of several professional sports teams and top athletes from the region.

Before starting their own group practice in 2010, the two internationally known surgeons had worked together for ten years in

Main image: Dr. Christoph Czermak M.D. 2015 © Pelzer Cermak Above: Dr. Michael Pelzer M.D. 2015 © Pelzer Cermak (left) Surgical loupes, 2015 © Pelzer Cermak (middle) Portrait: Michael Pelzer (left) and Christoph Czermak, 2015 © Pelzer Cermak. Photo: Konrad Gös

one of Europe’s leading clinics for plastic surgery. But then, Dr. Pelzer remembers, “we were looking for a new challenge: We wanted to use our knowledge and experience to provide highly specialised, individual patient care.” According to him, this was only possible in a smaller clinic.

Dr. Pelzer and Dr. Czermak closely cooperate with the Breast Centre in Speyer and the Thoraxklinik in Heidelberg, which enable them to perform complex reconstructive operations. “In addition, we will work with a well-respected breast centre in Neustadt next year,”Dr. Czermak says. He and his colleague also plan to move to a new practice right next to their partner hospital St. Elisabeth in Heidelberg, which will be even more tailored to the patients’ requirements. On the 27th of February, the surgeons invite to a Breast Day in St. Elisabeth, where they will offer various interdisciplinary presentations. www.pelzer-czermak.de

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Wellness, Health & Beauty

New ingenuity in the world of beauty and healthcare Spending a great deal of money on anti-ageing products without getting any results? Those days are over now. With the innovative products of APRICOT, one can easily get rid of bothersome wrinkles.

TEXT & PHOTOS: APRICOT GMBH | TRANSLATION: INA FRANK

Verena Jäger, founder and managing director of APRICOT GmbH, addressed herself to an ambitious task: creating new, exceptional anti-ageing products that actually have an effect. With the ‘Silicone care’ Anti-wrinkle Silicone-Pad and the ‘Apricot Skin’Anti-wrinkle Facial Patches, she has proven that there are effective ways to reduce wrinkles. The skin and its underlying muscles are tightened and relaxed manually, without the use of chemicals.

On the décolleté, the silicone pad is applied overnight and tightens the skin to prevent it from crumbling. Side sleepers should particularly take a fancy to this product. Giving the products a try is well worth it: the development of new wrinkles

is stopped and one wakes up in the morning with a rejuvenated look.

Overall, it might sound too good to be true – but the young entrepreneur Verena Jäger can already count on tens of thousands of satisfied customers. Nevertheless, she does not rest on her laurels: “We are planning to create even more products, so that there will be an effective and affordable treatment option for every problem zone soon,”Jäger announces.

The products can be purchased online and in selected perfumeries. www.apricot-shop.com/en Portrait: Verena Jäger

High-quality nutrition with a delightful taste New food supplements, which claim to be better than the previous ones, seem to pop up every day, which makes it hard for nutrition-conscious people to keep an overview.

But the natural, vegan products by Beste Proteine are certainly a good choice.

TEXT: INA FRANK | PHOTOS: BESTE PROTEINE

With the Plantforce Rice Protein by Beste Proteine, customers can be sure to have a product with supreme food quality at hand.

Whilst many other vendors of rice proteins simply sell a by-product of the starch production, the whole rice grain is processed for the Plantforce Rice Protein.

A major benefit of rice proteins is their versatility: they can be mixed with water,

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vegan alternatives of milk or juice and can form the basis of tasty smoothies or breakfast porridge, for which one can find recipes on the Beste Proteine’s website.Vegans use rice proteins to satisfy their protein needs, athletes to enhance muscle building and people who want to lose a few kilos value them as a meal replacement. Denisa Naranjo, founder and managing director

of Beste Proteine, puts it in a nutshell:“My mission is to offer high-quality vegan products to help people stay fit and healthy.”

However, more exciting products are still to come.“At the moment, we are working on our own protein muesli, which marks the start of an entire muesli range we will develop alongside nutritionist Katharina Hadam,”Naranjo reveals. Fitness enthusiasts can also look forward to vegan magnesium and vitamin D3 products. www.beste-proteine.de The Plantforce Rice Protein. Available in three flavours.

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IHRE ADRESSE FÜR PLASTISCHE & ÄSTHETISCHE CHIRURGIE IN BERLIN www.bamdad.de

PEYMAN BAMDAD PL ASTISCHE & ÄSTHETISCHE CHIRU RGIE Fünf Morgen / Clayallee No175 / 14195 Berlin-Dahlem / T. 030 845 096 00 / Öffnungszeiten: Montag-Donnerstag 8.00-13.00 / 14.00-18.00 Freitag 8.00-13.00

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German mountain splendour Breathtaking views, romantic landscapes covered in snow, fairytale castles, as well as enchanting villages and challenging cross-country skiing runs: this and more is what to expect in Germany’s mountain regions.

ness hotels cater for the visitors seeking relaxation. Sweating in the sauna, dipping into a hot tub or enjoying a massage are just perfect to recharge the batteries.

TEXT: NADINE CARSTENS | PHOTOS: © GERMAN NATIONAL TOURIST BOARD

The Bavarian Alps The Alps in Bavaria, featuring Germany’s highest mountain the Zugspitze, are ascended by half a million people each year.

At an altitude of almost 3,000 metres, 400 mountain peaks poke through the clouds.

Whereas the operators of other skiing regions have to provide artificial snow, there is plenty of dense snow on the Zugspitze for half the year. Ideal conditions for skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing. The slopes are suited for families and beginners as well as professional athletes and are complemented with the highest safety standards.

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In comparison to the alpine areas in Switzerland and Austria, the scenery of the Bavarian Alps appear lower and less rugged. Therefore, the region qualifies for mountain hiking and cross-country skiing: it offers a wide range of beautiful trails, where snow-blanketed meadows and conifer forests can be explored. Tourists, as well as locals, come by when they wish to regain energy or enjoy a good and hearty meal consisting of bread, cold cuts and cheese.The so-called ‘Brotzeit’is part of the Bavarian menu just like pretzels, Weißwurst or dumplings. In cosy alpine cabins, visitors usually stop for a bite to eat and to warm themselves up, while an abundance of well-

Another great feature of the Bavarian Alps are the picturesque villages and towns, such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which is one of the premiere alpine resorts. Historic buildings in the typical Bavarian style with heavy, wooden-beam constructions and façades painted with regional or pastoral scenes are almost too spectacular to be true.

Another must-see are the fairytale castles commissioned by King Ludwig II.The most famous one is without a doubt the Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau, which served as inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

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Discover Germany | Feature | German Mountain Splendour

Alaska or Canada. Such races are also being organised in the winter sport resort Winterberg. Furthermore, animal lovers have the chance to spend time with huskies and go hiking with them. Linked by an abdominal belt, hikers and dogs can enjoy nature together.

The Harz Another great region to spend a wonderful winter time is the Harz in Northern Germany. Even Johann Wolfgang von Goethe felt inspired by the area’s romantic landscape and visited it several times.The famous poet climbed the highest peak of the Harz mountain range, the Brocken, where he carried out geological research. Visitors who want to follow his trail can hike along the Goethe Way, named after him. Moreover, they will discover some traces of the former mining industry. Winter sports also have a long tradition in the Harz. Nordic skiing is quite popular here due to the altitude and length of the routes; ski jumping and biathlon are also popular sport activities here.

The Sauerland Beautiful winter landscapes can be found in Germany’s low mountain ranges as well, whether one prefers the Sauerland, the Harz, or the Thuringian Forest. The Sauerland, located in the Western part of Germany, is known for offering the best snow conditions north of the Alps. For those who like cross-country skiing, the Wintersport Arena Sauerland presents around 400 kilometres of cross-country skiing runs, 150 lifts with a total 300 hectares of slopes and, in case that it does not snow naturally, 450 snow cannons which cover an area the size of 150 football fields. In addition, international athletes gather here for annual bobsleigh races and ski jumping. The International Ski Federation World Cup (FIS-Ski), which takes place on the so called ‘Mühlenkopfschanze’, attracts up to 30,000 spectators. People, who would like to attend sled dog races, do not have to travel to

skiers and snowboarders from all over the country. In Altenberg, tourists will even find one of the most modern runs for luging and bobsleighing in the world.

Main image: Garmisch-Partenkirchen/Upper Bavaria: Lake Eibsee, Zugspitz mountains. Photo: Moritz Kertzscher Left, from top: Garmisch-Partenkirchen/Upper Bavaria: chapel at the Zugspitzplateau. Photo: Hans Peter Merten Bavarian Alps: Snowboarder in mid-air. Photo: Daniel Geiger Below: Hahnenklee/Harz (near Goslar): cable car on the Bocksberg. ©Goslar Marketing GmbH Thuringian Forest: Cross-country skiers on the Rennsteig trail.

Photo: Barbara Neumann Giant nutcracker in Seiffen/Ore [Erzgebirge] mountains, where woodcarving is a form of art. Photo: Jochen Keute

The Thuringian Forest Winter sports enthusiasts also love to travel to the Thuringian Forest, especially to the town Oberhof, where world cups, as well as national and international competitions, take place. In addition, various national teams come here regularly to train in disciplines such as bobsleigh, luge, skeleton and biathlon. But the Thuringian Forest offers many other activities too. A carriage ride through the wintery landscape for instance promises to create a romantic experience.

The Ore Mountains More than 200 kilometres away from the Thuringian Forest are the Ore Mountains, which separate Germany from the Czech Republic. In the Christmas season, tourists like to visit traditional Christmas markets and miner’s parades as the Ore Mountains have a long tradition of mining; it has significantly shaped the landscapes of the region. Nowadays, rare mountain meadows and wetlands can be found in nature reserves. Countless plants and animals even use mining leftovers as their habitat. The Ore Mountains are also a famous centre for winter sports. Precipitous downhills attract

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Special Theme

Made in Switzerland

Ring of fire

Feuerring design has made barbecuing an art form Feuerring stands for innovative design with sustainable qualities. And it has made barbecuing nothing less than a form of art.

TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: DENNIS SAVINI

“In Immensee we took a ship and travelled north to Zug. A block of sandstone lay broken to our left.”Goethe's diary entry, dating back to 1797, is the first sentence capturing the reader's eye on the Feuerring website.

From this very block of sandstone, close to where artist Andreas Reichlin grew up, the first ‘Feuerring’ was designed.

Design follows function, but design also follows rules of beauty. Sculptor Andreas Reichlin has invented a one of a kind steel bowl which combines high-scale aesthetics with the functional aspect of an innovative barbecue grill, allowing a whole new culinary experience for all senses.

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The digestive system is fragile and, when it comes to healthy cooking, today we find ourselves more aware than ever of what we consume and how it was prepared.

Feuerring picks up on that contemporary culinary sensitivity in combination with a

highly artistic approach to design. His work has a both archaic and minimalist appeal, reminding us of ancient cultures both in look and function. Reichlin says that nature has always been his creative source and force, ever since growing up with the imposing panorama of the Rigi massif and the atmospherical charm of the Zugernsee.

Fire and steel are the elements incorporated in Feuerring design and if your bar-

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acceptable for people whose stomach lining reacts to conventional barbecuing methods. Reichlin wanted to find a way of combining the nature-bound atmosphere of a barbecue with a gentle approach to cooking which allows much more variation than the conventional technique. The indirect Feuerring grill avoids putting the food right above the fire, which also allows the fire itself to unfold its very own aesthetics.

The open flames in the bowl's centre truly remind of an open fire pit – with the benefit of creating a slow cooking grill at the same time. The food is placed on the broad rim, a technique that, as simple as it may appear, allows a much more sensitive process with control of the various cooking stages, keeping both flavour and vitamins.

The temperature scale reaches from 300 degrees Celsius on the inner part of the rim, allowing a quick browning, to 150 degrees Celsius on the outer edge for gentle roasting.

becue takes place on, say, a stone terrace by the waterside, the holistic circle of natural elements is complete. Speaking of circles: aesthetically reminding of a circular fireplace, the barbecuing steel bowl allows gentle grilling, from steak to fish to a vegan and veggie dish. Even a five-course dinner is not a problem. For Reichlin, the perfect shape is the product of material and design: “The journey to a perfect shape, allied with a passion for the strength of steel with its intrinsic weightlessness and all pervading serenity, never ceases to fascinate me.”

The highly aesthetical aspect transforms a barbecuing terrace or garden into a welcoming space where friends and family can gather, sit "around the fire" and enjoy company, conversation and good food for long summer evenings. And if you feel like it, you can enjoy the Feuerring outside for a little winter bonfire – why not? Its artistic sculptural look centres and harmonises any garden all year round.

Feuerring bowls are basically indestructible and can be passed on for generations. Sustainable, practical and beautiful, they mirror nowadays the philosophy of mindfulness and attention to detail.

The social aspect as one of the main attractions of barbecuing is even enhanced by the fact that hosts and guests can start and end the evening together. In using a Feuerring grill, the long wait for the ideal fire bed is a thing of the past. Eating together with friends enriches the culinary experience and with a Feuerring grill, even those averse to the idea of barbecuing can be easily convinced to join. Watching the fire together, enjoying company and excellent food no doubt always makes for a special evening.

Feuerring bowls are unique and the innovative design was finally perfected by Reichlin in 2009 after a trial and research phase of four years. Ever since it has often been copied, but never to the point of perfection the original brand guarantees. By the way, the sculptural quality of the design can not only be seen, but also be heard.

Touched with a piece of wood, the Feuerring‘s inside becomes a singing bowl. The warm sound means that you have purchased the original. www.feuerring.ch

Passion for what he does has led Andreas Reichlin to create objects which serve both function and aesthetics on a high standard. Originated by a personal health issue, namely Reichlin's own fragile digestive system, the functional task was to invent a device which makes grilled food

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Only time, healthy ingredients and careful hands form great bread Many people today rediscover the worth of handmade products – especially when it comes to food. The Haueter bakery and confectionary specialises in making artisan bread, allowing the dough to rest longer and thereby develop its own unique aroma. In their bakery and café in Adelboden, about an hour’s drive south of Bern, they offer cake, pastries and bread made the traditional way.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: HAUETER BAKERY

It is three o’clock in the morning: while others are still in deep slumber, at the Haueter bakery and confectionary the oven is already hot, loaves of bread are resting in rows waiting to be baked. And when the first early risers make their way into the village of Adelboden, the scent of freshly baked bread, cake and bread rolls wafts through the road.

Letting the dough rest for days gives the bread a better taste and unique character Flour, water, salt and only a tiny little bit of yeast is all that is needed to make a terri-

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bly good dough, forming the base for the ‘lang geführtes Brot’, a bread speciality.

The term ‘lang geführt’ speaks of the long amount of time needed for the dough to rest and rise – which in this case can take up to 72 hours.“You can compare bread to red wine, cheese or whiskey,” says Susan Haueter, who runs the business together with her husband Marc. Both have taken over the business from Marc Haueter’s parents in 2013. Like wine or cheese, bread needs time to ripen and develop a unique aroma. “The longer it takes and the gentler the ripening process is, the

more exquisite and distinct the aromas can develop in a bread.”Even the crumbs are finer after baking.

But how is this special bread made? “We did not invent the method we are using, it has been done the same way by bakers and housewives in former times already,” says Susan Haueter. On the first day a yeast sponge is made from flour, water and yeast that instantly starts rising in the warm bakehouse; unlike sourdough this dough is made fresh for every batch. On the second day the rest of the flour is added together with salt, before the bread is left to rest again. On the third day finally the baker forms the loaves and bakes them in the oven. This way the Haueter bakery produces a great variety of bread – from Italian style Ciabatta to French Baguette, from Fitzer spelt bread to Chälistei nut bread.“Our breads simply taste more in-

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Switzerland

tense and mature – even the light ones,” says Susan Haueter.

A bakery in the second generation For 27 years Gerhard undYvonne Haueter had run the business before their son Marc and his wife Susan took over leading the bakery into the future. Both have gained extensive experience in the food service industry. Marc Haueter had worked alongside his father for seven years, learning from the bottom up how to make bread, before taking on the business.

The bakery not only uses local produce, but also supplies surrounding hotels with fresh-quality products. Next to the bakehouse the owners run a café where customers can taste the wide range of specialities: chocolate or cappuccino patisseries, lemon cake, mini puff pastries, cupcakes, sandwiches and, of course, the above mentioned breads. In the morning guests can enjoy a fresh breakfast with the very best products the bakery and confectionary have to offer. If ordered the bakery also delivers bread to all of Switzerland.

Traditional methods counter industrial food production The traditional method Haueter bakery uses for making their breads needs time and has become quite a rarity in modern food production. Today’s life has become

Main image: Sunday breakfast buffet at Haueter Adelboden.

Above: Marc and Susan Haueter.

Left: Daily breakfast at Haueter Adelboden.

Below left: Specialities: Chocolate (top) and Christmas Stollen (bottom).

Below right: Fitzer spelt bread.

faster and faster and this pace took over as overall measures even in traditional trades like baking. “Many producers today even add enzymes to the dough so it rises faster,” explains Haueter.“This is a trend we want to counteract.” Slow food is the keyword, describing not only the joy of savouring good, local food, but also the time it takes to produce it. Local producers like the Haueters counter the trend in the global food industry where food is produced fast, only to be consumed the same way. Making bread the traditional way without using additives might be a time-consuming

process, but has unbeatable results: the longer a dough for example is allowed to rest, the longer the bread can be kept and stays fresh. In this case up to five days.

Consuming quality bread like the one made by Haueter also has a health aspect: “Studies show that a longer fermenting time helps the human body to better digest the bread,” says Susan Haueter. That is something customers confirm: the bread does not sit so heavily on the stomach. www.haueter-adelboden.ch

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Iconic textiles made in Switzerland The rigotex ag – swiss house of textiles takes Alpine chic to new heights with stunning collections of decorative and functional high-quality textiles made for home and professional use.

Main image: Table set ‘Edelweiss’.

Top right: Linen cloths and decorative cushions.

Right: Tableware with silhouette paper cut design ‘Eidgenuss’.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: RIGOTEX AG – SWISS HOUSE OF TEXTILES

Inventors of the iconic Swiss Kulttüechli as well as the amazing KULTSCHTOFF product range, the three Hauser siblings Marcel, Hans and Susanna – have been creating high-quality textiles since 1996.

What started as a manufacturing business of equipment for the local food service industry, today is a flourishing business well renowned beyond the Alpine borders. Still true to its roots, the rigotex ag – swiss house of textiles produces kitchen and service textiles as well as tableware, but added terrycloth, bedlinen, cleaning cloths and other functional as well a decorative items and souvenirs to its portfolio. From kitchen to bathroom to bedroom, the Swiss family business has what it takes when it comes to blending beauty and function.

“The strong links between textile craftsmanship with traditional skills like silhou-

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ette paper cutting and high-quality raw materials we use result in home and interior textiles with iconic potential. As an ambassador for Swiss tradition we send textile greetings all around the world,” managing director Hans Hauser explains.

Smart products include the KnopflochTuch kitchen towel, which has a clever buttonhole instead of a sew-on loop to hang it on a hook.

New designs include classic Alpine motives such as Edelweiss flowers and original silhouette paper cutting designs by local artist Jolanda Brändle, inspired by and made in Switzerland of course. All rigotex ag – swiss house of textiles creations are truly authentic and original. In summer 2015, the exclusive CHICSCHNACK collection was launched. Consisting of table runners, sets, glasses, cushions, plaids and

more, an array of cool and stylish designs include a bold Swiss flag made entirely of precious Swarovski crystals. CHICSCHNACK is all about“fashionable and cheeky living and home textiles,”Hauser explains.

Another house specialty is the customisation of products. The Hauser siblings and their skilled team are capable of turning nearly every vision into reality, allowing customers to obtain unique and personalised products according to their very individual requirements. From logos to messages, the options are limitless.

Private or professional, rigotex ag – swiss house of textiles is a household name to bear in mind when it comes to authentic Swiss textiles. www.rigotex.ch

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Switzerland

Contemporary jewellery, timeless design Innovation is second nature to Swiss designer Fabian Blaser. His creations are elegant yet modern, and Blaser does not shy away from using unusual materials or techniques. His secret? Question your designs until they are perfect.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: FABIAN BLASER

Fabian Blaser has always been drawn to working creatively. Having flirted with the idea of becoming a graphic designer or interior architect, Blaser quickly discovered that studying to be a goldsmith would better suit his interests and talents as it combines spatial and graphic creation.

piece of jewellery is only finished when it is close to perfection. And on the neverending quest to finding perfection, Blaser designs stunning rings and necklaces and is proud that through his jewellery a small piece of himself is being carried into the world.

Blaser is absolutely dedicated to his art but remains humble and laughs:“Sometimes I ask myself how I actually ended up as a jewellery designer.”He adds:“I like the psychological aspect of my work. Understanding a customer, giving advice and trying to gage what they would like or what could be the right creation for them. At first I was not quite aware how much the social interaction with customers mattered to me. I also enjoy the journey of creating a piece of jewellery from the beginning to the end.”

“I particularly enjoy designing rings.That is because I personally like hands the most, my own and other people’s. Hands are often being looked at, so why not decorate them?”says Blaser with a warm smile.

Blaser’s unique and beautiful pieces vary in style and material. He gets inspired by talking to his colleagues and is not afraid of criticism, be it from others or himself. A

ating an exclusive collection of rings for men. Blaser’s goal is to conquer the world of men’s fashion with a technical ring and it is very likely his newest mission will be another success. www.fabianblaser.ch

Aside from working in his atelier in Biel, Blaser is also a lecturer at the Bern School of Design where he teaches up and coming goldsmiths the craft of jewellery making.

Using all kinds of materials from precious stones and metals to industrial produce and recycling materials, Blaser knows how to keep it fresh.

His current project is in partnership with an automobile designer.Together they are cre-

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Combining tradition and high-tech innovation The Swiss DIWISA distillery in Willisau is a family business which has been able to withstand the test of time with irrepressibly innovative strength and highly motivated employees since 1918. Optimally combining traditional craftsmanship and innovation, the DIWISA distillery has become the market leader in producing and distributing alcoholic beverages in Switzerland.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: DIWISA

The distillery was founded by Hans Affentranger in 1918 in order to produce spirits, liquors and syrup. Because the natural surroundings of Willisau were predestined to grow various fruits, it seems no wonder that the family business soon gained competence in the field of fruit spirit distillation.Today, DIWISA is one of Europe’s most modern distilleries which surprises customers with numerous pioneering products.

Their premium vodka brand XELLENT, for example, leaves nothing to chance. Great vodka combines good ingredients and high-quality water and this is exactly what XELLENT puts a special focus on. Solely processing pure Swiss rye from local cultivation areas, the distillation process starts in a small, traditional copper alembic before the vodka comes into a specifically manufactured column with 45 plates. Here, it gets cleaned, all remaining unwanted components are re-

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moved and thus, the taste is further refined, harmonised and softened.After a resting period of several months, the vodka gets diluted to drinking strengths with water from Central Switzerland’s Titlis glacier. A concluding, multi-stage filtration process gives XELLENT SwissVodka pure perfection.

The result is a high-quality product full of character with a slightly sweet taste. Contemporary design and holistic ‘Swissness’ makes XELLENT the perfect product for

connoisseurs of fine distillates.“The positive feedbacks on our XELLENT Swiss Vodka motivated us to produce an excellent gin which is based on this vodka. Various botanical extracts, partly from the DIWISA company’s own garden or surrounding forests, make it special,” notes Madeleine Huegli, export manager at DIWISA. The XELLENT Swiss Edelweiss Gin has already celebrated substantial successes and has been awarded a gold medal from the‘World Spirits Award’. TROJKA, Switzerland’s largest colourful liqueur vodka brand, is also part of DIWISA’s product range. Furthermore, the family business successfully distributes brands, such as Jägermeister, Sierra Tequila, Glenfarclas Single Malt or Château du Breuil.

It comes as no surprise that their highquality, pure and tasty innovations have made DIWISA the leading company on Switzerland’s spirit market. www.diwisa.ch

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Switzerland

Not vermin in the garden, but a delicacy For millennia, escargots have been collected for culinary purposes. Their special characteristics, like having thousands of teeth, make them a fascinating species.

In fact, the snail farm Elgg has fully committed itself to the little crawlers.

TEXT: INA FRANK | PHOTOS: SCHNECKENFARM ELGG

Between 30,000 and 40,000 snails bustle on the free-range breeding facility of the family farm, which was the first of its kind in Switzerland. Since 2004, the owning family Bähler has conquered the taste buds of gourmets with exceptional foods. “My father came up with the idea of having a snail farm,” farm owner Armin Bähler recalls. “No sooner said than done! He opened the farm.” Next to pickled snails in a glass, that are the most popular product, one can find Schneckenelexier, a mixture of the escargots’ extract and plum herbal brandy, or recently even snail caviar. However, the product range is under continuous development; for instance, facial and hand creams with snails’extract now form part of the large offer.

The products are available online, at the farm’s shop Schnägge-Lädeli and in selected restaurants and gourmet shops throughout Switzerland.Those who are curious to have a look behind the scenes can join one of the guided tours on the farm.

“The tours, followed by a snail meal, are very popular amongst clubs who are looking for an interesting alternative to celebrate their events,”Bähler adds.

Recently, the farm achieved another important goal: they now have the permission for EU-wide export. www.schneckenfarm.ch Portrait: Armin Bähler

Made in Switzerland since 1828 The Glarner Tüechli is almost as much a part of Swiss culture as fondue or the ubiquitous character Heidi. For over 175 years, the tradition-steeped company F. Blumer & Cie. AG has produced high-quality textile products but their bestseller has always been the Glarner Tüechli handkerchief.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: F. BLUMER & CIE. AG

Situated in the Canton of Glarus, F. Blumer & Cie. AG employed around 650 people during the canton’s heyday of textile printing and exported their products worldwide.

After their production plant closed down in 1979, the famous Glarner Tüechli, alongside with other products, started to be printed in the region’s last Swiss Textile Printing Plant.

The cotton material used for the Glarner Tüechli utilises the same manufacturing process from the beginning and also gets woven in the Canton of Glarus. “We put special emphasis on ‘Made in Switzerland’ and on Glarus’ long tradition of textile printing. We combine quality with reliability,” smiles Edwin Hauser, who took over

the founding family’s company in 1993 together with his daughter Susanne.

Blumer’s most famous design is a distinctive paisley pattern, available in 34 colour options.The multifunctional Glarner Tüechli can be used as a bandana, handkerchief, headdress, dog collar or gift wrap.

It combines tradition with modernity and intermediates happiness and sportiness.“It has a high degree of recognition. Clients know that this is a typical Swiss product which only gets offered by us,” Edwin Hauser adds. Standing for the most contemporary textile trends, Blumer also offers hats, scarves, fabrics or their famous Glarner Paisley Pattern on umbrellas, dishes or bedsheets. Additionally, Blumer has a sizeable ‘make-to-order’business that caters to customer’s individual requirements. www.blumer-f.ch Below: Glarner Tüechli in red with the famous paisley pattern.

Glarner Tüechli in red. (middle) Glarner Tüechli in blue. (right)

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Made in Switzerland

Personalised labels to last Every parent knows this situation: you collect your child from school or kindergarten, but their lunch boxes are lost or they are wearing pullovers you have never seen before. Stickerella developed the perfect solution to avoid this mess.

TEXT: INA FRANK | PHOTOS: STICKERELLA

Waterproof, dishwasher-safe, microwavable and personalised nametags, which also endure a turn in the washing machine or the dryer, were pioneered by Stickerella in 2009.

An enthusiastic team of ‘mum-preneurs’ add everyday experience to the production process, so other mums and dads can make their lives much easier with the help of these thoughtful products, which have all been tested by real customers.

ucts,” Pauline Geniets-de Leng, managing director, reveals. “They are very handy; therefore they can be used on many more items than just clothes.” Furthermore, Stickerella offers seasonal sets, such as for Christmas, or sets for special occasions that are nicely wrapped and include a greeting card to be personally filled out.

Corporate customers can also use Stickerella’s products and can even have a collection personalised with their own logos.

Today, Stickerella offers a huge selection of different sets of labels.“The stickers for clothes are one of our most popular prod-

Premium quality for a luxurious skin Swiss manufacturer Weseta are experts when it comes to top-quality textiles. Focussing on high-class craftsmanship, their exclusive and desirable terry products are high in demand amongst discerning customers.

TEXT: INA FRANK | PHOTOS: WESETA

Weseta's production has been in place for more than 150 years – a time during which many changes in the textile industry have occurred. Unlike others, Weseta always stuck to its principle of ‘Swiss Made’.“We are convinced that more and more cusConrad Peyer, CEO tomers will think about the origin of products in the future. They are also interested in the conditions under which those are produced.

As we are close to

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customers, we can offer this transparency,” Conrad Peyer, CEO of the company, says.

Weseta's product range includes everything needed for comfort in the bathroom and beyond. The terry towels, especially Dreamflor,

“Particularly at workplaces with different teams or where equipment is exposed to the weather, our stickers can be useful, for example if our customers are gardeners, restaurants or pharmacies,” Geniets-de Leng adds.

Every year Stickerella develops three to four new designs. In 2016, customers can look forward to an extension of the kitchen range and slightly more grown-up stickers for teenagers. www.stickerella.ch

are characterised by their fluffiness. The appealing designs and harmonic colours make sure that everyone finds one's favourite. Since the early 1990s, Weseta’s product range includes luxurious terry towels, bathroom carpets and bathrobes, which are all produced for the brand of Christian Fischbacher.

Christian Fischbacher is a Swiss manufacturer of very luxurious interior fabrics and bed linen.

The two companies have worked closely together for over 15 years and the Christian Fischbacher products are exported all over the world to make any home more beautiful.

Corporate costumers appreciate the Swissmade textiles too. Companies’ logos can be embroidered, printed or woven into the towels, which make them ideal promotional gifts.

Weseta's client list is impressive, featuring big brands such as Audi and Estée Lauder. www.weseta.ch

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ENJOY YOUR TIME IN ZURICH BAR & RESTAURANT

WWW.NEWSZH.CH HEINEKEN NEWSBAR & RESTAURANT AU GRATIN BAHNHOFPLATZ 2 • 8001 ZÜRICH +41 44 221 38 00 SIMPLY GRATINÖS!

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Conference of the Month Germany

Hotel Frankenland The conference hotel with the ‘boom’ Hotel and conference centre in one, Hotel Frankenland in Bad Kissingen combines the individuality and flexibility of a boutique hotel with the space only large-chain hotels can rival. Here, guests’ wishes come true, whether they involve a chain reaction with 200 people or a predator prowling the grounds.

TEXT: JULIKA HÜTHER | PHOTOS: HOTEL FRANKENLAND

Conveniently situated in the heart of Germany, Hotel Frankenland’s guests are as diverse as the services it offers. Couples, groups of ladies on wellness breaks, conference guests, business travellers, commuters, weekenders, health-conscious spa aficionados and culturally inspired guests flock here to enjoy the best experience a hotel can offer.

Conferences are especially popular at Hotel Frankenland, as it provides an infrastructure for large meetings and sym-

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posia while still being able to focus on individuality. “Despite offering 500 rooms and three conference centres with 25 rooms for 1,800 guests, our house retains its personality,”says Andrea Hergenröther, chief executive of Hotel Frankenland.“Our employee’s individuality is being encouraged and breathed, and we rely on charm and character rather than on stereotypical hotel catchwords. The ‘BÄM’ [‘boom’] and spirit of our employees are what sets our four-star superior event hotel apart from bland conference hotel blocks

where guests are boxed into boring bedrooms.”

Not restricted by any hotel chain’s rules and regulations, Hotel Frankenland oozes individuality and flexibility and improvements can be discussed, decided and put into action internally.“Our central location and attractive pricing set us apart from our competitors too,”says Hergenröther.

From wellness to free fall Apart from the generous conference centres, Hotel Frankenland offers various catering options – a banquet hall for 500 people, two à la carte restaurants, the Frankenland Stuben and the Rôtisserie as well as two buffet restaurants and a vaulted cellar for dining. The most popular attraction is the AquaWell pool area including sauna areas

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Discover Germany | Conference of the Month | Germany

GoKart and Free Fall are just some of the activities offered on a regular basis. Those who want to experience the world outside Bad Kissingen and Hotel Frankenland from a different perspective may enjoy a flight in a motorised paraglider.

Conferences with a“boom” “Our longstanding conference clients include Siemens, Continental, Technogym, Audi BKK and more.The planning for these clients is usually done blindfolded, as we and our clients can work together as a winning team,” explains Hergenröther. The conference complex comprises 2,500 square metres and offers three conference centres, three cafeterias, two exclusive banqueting halls and an outdoor event space. Whether seminars, conferences, symposia, congresses or exhibitions, Hotel Frankenland offers a suitable solution for both small and large groups. Wi-Fi, movie screens, beamers, audio and video solutions, microphones, speakers and high-voltage connections are just some of the extras that may be included. The all-inclusive conference offer is a great solution which comprises, amongst other perks, a free sports and wellness package for all conference attendees.

“When we cater for new clients, wishes and specifications often change on site, but due to our decades of experience in

the conference sector, spontaneity does not pose a hurdle for us,” Hergenröther says. Average conferences are therefore a rarity at Hotel Frankenland, with their special events partner pro-log offering unusual outdoor experiences from rock climbing and stays in winter bivouacs to archery and crossing ravines as well as dedicated teambuilding activities and management seminars.“We like to reminisce about the time a tiger was let loose on our premises, a chain reaction with 200 people was initiated on our event green or the time we produced 100-kilowatt electricity at the Forum Frankenland for a presentation of saucepans curated by cooking accessories company AMC,”says Hergenröther.

Not surprisingly, the year 2016 holds many secrets in store for guests of Hotel Frankenland. Having recently transformed the banqueting hall ‘Forum Frankenland’, which now includes state-of-the-art LED lighting, the new year will see the re-styling of the second banqueting hall in a completely new look.“There is one little secret that I can share with you,” Hergenröther says.

“We plan to expand our premises in 2016 from the current 16,000 square metres to 20,000 square metres. Keep your eyes peeled!” www.hotel-frankenland.de

on more than 3,000 square metres. The equally impressive spa provides a space for relaxation and treatments that spoil the body and soul. The facilities also include a pool for sports fans and a gym area. Two bars and a dance club provide ample opportunities for a different kind of recreation.

The KISSPARK caters for outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike. Paintball,

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Transforming energy and utility processes Energy and utility leaders in Germany and Europe rely on SIV Utility Services GmbH to help them work better – and work differently. The company’s business processes help energy providers deliver superior customer service, improve business efficiency, and leverage consumer data and insights. How do they achieve this? By creating reliable and efficient relationships with people, customers and communities.

TEXT: ELISABETH DOEHNE | PHOTOS: SIV UTILITY SERVICES GMBH

SIV Utility Services GmbH is in the business of making energy suppliers and utility companies work more efficiently, costeffectively and transparently. Well aware that the utilities industry (electricity, gas,

64 | Issue 33 | December 2015

water and waste water) is a dynamic sector, the firm helps clients meet community needs as well as their financial objectives.

‘Process efficiency is cost efficiency,’ is the firm’s credo.

The German third-party business provider is a well-established and proven BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) and BPS (Business Process Services) partner. The company is committed to applying their enthusiasm and market expertise to working with people, projects, and organisations.

Their outsourcing services range from energy management, IT solutions, accounting and billing services, to customer care.

Energy services for people The company embraces the notion that both people and resources are the heart of

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Discover Germany | Business | SIV Utility Services GmbH

A team of expert professionals Headquartered in Roggentin, a town near Rostock on Germany’s Baltic Sea Coast, the company’s location alone predispositions its affinity for renewable energy. It comes as no surprise that water and energy providers make up a big portion of their industry partners. SIV Utility Services GmbH was founded in 2008 and is part of the German software and IT company SIV AG (CEO Jörg Sinnig). For 25 years, SIV AG has been partnering with both private and public utility enterprises – in Germany and abroad - and established itself in the international energy and water distribution market.

Main image: Rostock Harbour, Hanse, Sail 2015.

Above: Hanse, Sail 2015.

Right, from top:

support the expansion of renewable energies. It is an investment in our shared future. In the next few years, the energy market will be one of the most sustainable and profitable industries in Germany,”Semkat says.

Improving processes, dialogue and efficiency At a time when utility companies around the world are looking for ways to respond

Jan-Hendrik Semkat, CEO of SIV Utility Services GmbH, explains that the challenges facing the German water and energy sector – and in particular the integration of traditional and renewable energy sources – are transformative but at the same time, bear many opportunities. To him, the Energiewende is more than an abstraction.

SIV Utility Services GmbH, Customer Evening Event.

SIV Utility Services GmbH, 2015 fair booth.

E-world 2015, SIV.AG fair booth.

”Our employees experience the Energiewende, and the political and practical changes in how we produce and consume new energy everyday at their desks. Many of our colleagues have children and firmly

their services. And this philosophy shows, both in their commitment to their region – as well as in the diversity and professional know-how of their employees, which range from energy consultants, IT and data managers, communication specialists, to accountants and service representatives. The team, made up of 65 people, is passionate about liaising with clients and their utility consumers. ”We are truly a team of specialists from the Baltic Sea. Our employees have many years of professional experience in the energy industry. They come from areas such as energy data management, accounting, billing, sales and market communication and process the supplier changes,”states CEO Jan-Hendrik Semkat.

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to industry and market changes, while addressing the evolving needs of their customers, the German energy business provider can help these clients by offering competitive, efficient and reliable business solutions.

The company’s process services include: custom-tailored and individualised energy consulting for regional – as well as Germany and European-wide clients that includes accounting services, contract management, bill services, customer services, as well as the provision of Application Services (the implementation of IT systems, data management as well as market communications), Business Services (consulting with regards to energy providers and utility companies) and Business Process Outsourcing (the smooth integration and development of clients’ day-to-day operations, and customer care).

A growing service market The German and European energy sector and, more specifically, its services market, is a growing terrain. And this growth is reflected in numbers. Last year alone, the firm’s employees managed more than 330,000 supplier messages, 166,000 metred

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reports on energy consumption (MSCONS messages), as well as more than 25,000 energy providers switches for five utility supplier clients. In all of these cases, SIV Utility Services GmbH delivered costeffective outsourcing and office functions for a number of high-level clients.

Third-party business provider SIV Utility Services GmbH is well aware that power companies contend with many moving targets: customers, regulators, energy prices and so on. They also know that an effective outsourcing plan can help. The company works with a diverse range of clients – both public and private entities – across several industry sectors. Two recent examples of successful partnerships are the cooperation with the Stadtwerke Pfaf-

Page 66

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Discover Germany | Business | SIV Utility Services GmbH

fenhofen a.d. Ilm and the process services for Energiehaus Dresden e.G. Strategic approach to business success With their long-standing process expertise, efficiency and service quality, SIV Utility Services GmbH enable their partners to focus on details. Speaking metaphorically, the German services provider helps clients with perfecting their business choreography: "We take care of the messy part and duty so that our customers can have the freestyle. For municipal water utilities and energy suppliers, for example, we handle their daily operations and customer communication so that they gain peace of mind to carry out their projects and grow sustainably,” explains Jan-Hendrik Semkat.

Combining a plethora of technical skills, expertise, industry knowledge and a holistic work philosophy, SIV Utility Services GmbH takes pride in accompanying their clients from the preliminary planning phase to the realisation and implementation of utility services in a changing energy market. www.siv.de/services Right, from top: SIV Utility Services GmbH Management Claudia Schröder (Head of Business Development) and Jan-Hendrik Semkat (CEO).

Management team.

Employees.

Customer Service Team.

Interview with Jan-Hendrik Semkat, CEO of SIV Utility Services GmbH What business philosophy does SIV Utility Services GmbH embrace?

“Although our market is very technical and complex, our services are ultimately always about people and helping to make their lives easier; we care about our employees, our clients and their customers, and our partners. This motivates me and my colleagues to be responsible in providing the highest quality and process solutions that support our customers and communities.”

How does your work affect energy consumers and providers?

“Most people can freely choose their energy supplier and are then billed for the metred energy they use. But how does the electricity or gas get to their house?

What makes up their bill? Customers are usually not aware of all the business processes and accounting that goes on in the background. Our company manages these ‘background’ processes in several ways. We specialise in providing services that make it easier and more transparent for energy providers and consumers to communicate with each other.”

What are the greatest challenges for the energy and utility industries in the next five years?

“The future of the energy industry is digital. The increasing integration of decentralised production plants and households brings the use of sustainable green energy to a new level. Intelligent measuring systems in conjunction with Smart Home solutions involve a repertoire of possibilities – all of which are not yet foreseeable.

Moreover, we have been part of the Energiewende for many years and want to continue working with renewable energies such as wind, solar and water.”

Portrait: Jan-Hendrik Semkat, CEO SIV Utility Services GmbH

Below: Group picture SIV Utility Services GmbH.

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Discover Germany | Business | bol Systemhaus

Modernising form management in companies Let your clients work for you In modern companies most processes are digitalised or available via cloud. Yet employees still agonise themselves with forms which have to be completed on paper, submitted and then have to be manually typed up again. The solution for this: a form management system.

figures can be realised without any loss of performance. Thus, the form management can also handle very complex processes most reliably. If this has aroused your interest, simply contact the bol Systemhaus GmbH.

TEXT: BOL SYSTEMHAUS GMBH | PHOTO: PAULUS RUSYANTO | DREAMSTIME.COM | TRANSLATION: NANE STEINHOFF

www.bol-systemhaus.de With the help of web-based form management, companies can digitalise their formbased processes and thus save a great deal of time for both employees and clients. The forms’data are transmitted digitally and can be adapted to any desired system. This proven, reliable and safe technology from Munich’s bol Systemhaus GmbH provides these opportunities, which can be adjusted to each individual process within a company.

This already sounds amazing, but the special highlight of the solution offered by bol Systemhaus GmbH is its scalability. Even thousands of forms with millions of call-off

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Discover Germany | Business | Solicitor Column

Who owns street art?

TEXT & PHOTO: GREGOR KLEINKNECHT

The rise to fame of street artist Banksy has thrown up a few interesting legal and moral questions over time, recently when the High Court had to decide the question of who owned a Banksy mural (Art Buff). The work had turned up overnight on the back of an amusement arcade in Folkestone during the Folkestone Triennial art festival in September 2014, but then was cut out from the wall by the tenant of the building and offered for sale in the United States (there is a company specialising in the removal of Banksy and other street artists’ works, aptly named ‘Bankrobber’).

One man’s street art is of course another’s graffiti vandalism and, Banksy or not, English laws, such as the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 and the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005, criminalise unauthorised graffiti and street art – it just so happens that Banksy murals are highly valued and worth a lot of money. In other words, the market decides what is vandalism and what is art? However, the criminalisation of street art is one of the reasons why street artists by and large prefer to operate incognito.This in turn gives rise to interesting questions about copyright protection in the original work.

Street art is often a political and social statement specific to the place and time which provide its context, freely accessible, and can quickly become popular and a local fo-

cus point. The argument is therefore often made that it should actually belong to the community in whose midst it was placed.

This may be the reason why, when another Banksy work (Slave Labour) disappeared from the side of a building in North London in 2013, and also resurfaced on an auction website in the United States, local residents and the council started a public campaign for its return.

From a legal point of view, the obvious answer to the ownership questions might be to say that the work belongs to the owner of the wall on which it was sprayed. However, the position was less clear in the Art Buff case, where the property was leased to a tenant who was obliged under the terms of the lease to remove the graffiti. In cases where the property is let to a tenant, the question of who owns the mural once removed will therefore depend in the first instance on the terms of the lease.

In Art Buff, the charity organisers of the art festival had taken an assignment of the claim for return of the mural from the landlord. While there was no answer in the lease or legal precedent who owned the mural once removed from the building, the court found that the landlord, as owner of the building, had the better claim to ownership of the mural. Art Buff will now be returned to Folkestone where it will once more go on public display.

Gregor Kleinknecht LLM MCIArb is a German Rechtsanwalt and English solicitor, and a partner at Hunters Solicitors, a leading law firm in Central London.

Hunters Solicitors, 9 New Square, Lincoln’s Inn, London WC2A 3QN E-mail: gjk@hunters-solicitors.co.uk www.hunters-solicitors.co.uk

Issue 33 | December 2015 | 69

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Austria’s Legal Experts

A specialist and experienced lawyer is crucial when facing criminal charges When getting in conflict with the law, having a good lawyer at hand is essential – especially when facing criminal charges. The Vienna-based lawyers Lukas Kollmann and Philipp Wolm are specialised in this field, advising and representing national and international clients in court, consulting them in advance or carrying out internal company investigations.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN

Special

The law office of Dr Lukas Kollmann and Mag Philipp Wolm inVienna has a boutique approach. “We are solely specialised in criminal law and criminal trial law and lend our professional and personal support to clients,” explains lawyer Philipp Wolm. While many other law firms work in quite different areas of law, Kollmann Theme and Wolm focus on one field and its neighbouring areas only, allowing them and their clients to profit not only from experience but also extensive expertise. Instead of covering many legal topics but only scratching the surface in all of them, Lukas Kollmann and Philipp Wolm’s emphasis on criminal law allows them to carve out even the finest details and think through cases more thoroughly, maybe identifying legal loopholes and always working on the best solution for their clients.“Through our long experience and expert knowledge we can guarantee our clients a high level of competence even in delicate situations,” says lawyer Lukas Kollmann, who founded the law office together with Philipp Wolm.

Austria’s Legal Experts

International recognition as experts on commercial criminal law After studying law in Vienna, Lukas Kollmann obtained a doctoral degree at the same university and worked for law firms in Vienna. From 2009 to 2014 he worked for the renowned law firm Soyer & Partner – first as an independent lawyer, later as partner – before founding Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwälte in 2014. His main competences are criminal law and criminal trial law, commercial criminal law, corporate criminal law, internal company investigations, corruption law and penitentiary law.

Lukas Kollmann was voted among the top ten Austrian criminal law specialists in the FORMAT ranking 2015, the law office itself

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Austria’s Legal Experts

was among the top ten law offices working in the field of commercial criminal law.

Lukas Kollmann is recognised as a leading authority on corruption-related law and internal investigations and writes for Who’s Who Legal. So while only existing for a short time, the Kollmann Wolm law office is already internationally recognised and counted among the leading authorities on criminal law.

Philipp Wolm impresses with a similar portfolio featuring experience in criminal law and criminal trial law, compliance, internal company investigations, penitentiary law and commercial criminal law. Above that he works on cases concerning drug abuse and crimes surrounding illegal substances. Philipp Wolm has also studied law inVienna and has worked for the same law office as Lukas Kollmann. In 2014 he not only became partner at Kollmann, Wolm Rechtsanwälte but also successfully passed an examination as certified compliance officer.

plains Wolm, providing arguments why clients should and could rely on their work.

While a strong emphasis is on individual clients – with a strategy to bring criminal proceedings to an end as soon as possible – Kollmann and Wolm also work for companies when needed. Here it is essential to keep the impact as small as possible to avoid damage to a company’s reputation.

This is also the case when conducting internal investigations on behalf of a client.

On the other hand both lawyers also legally support employees affected by this kind of investigation. No matter what reason someone might have to employ Lukas Kollmann and Philipp Wolm, they promise not only to do their best, but also to calculate their fees fairly and transparently. www.kw-anwaelte.com

Portraits: Dr. Lukas Kollmann (left) and Philipp Wolm (right)

Doing the best for clients – even when proven guilty “We represent clients in all areas of criminal law – so to speak from a drug dealer to an imposter suspected of fraud amounting to millions of Euros,”says Philipp Wolm.“But in total our main focus lies on commercial criminal law proceedings. Always sticking to the codex ‘everyone is entitled to a lawyer’, there are only very few cases we would refuse – sexual offences for example.”

In addition to court proceedings, the second focus lies on criminal compliance – counselling clients before they do something illegal in business. For many working in an international market this is quite important, since often quite different – and unknown to the client – regulations might apply. Lukas Kollmann and Philipp Wolm can rely on a team of two trainee lawyers and a legal assistant supporting them in both work areas: consulting and representation at court.

“Our success is based on our integrity, our know how in commercial criminal law and the partisanship towards our clients,” ex-

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Portraits: Stefanie Lugger (left) and Kersten Bankler (right), founding partners.

Business vision and legal precision Lugger | Bankler Attorneys at Law is a modern, independent Austrian business law firm which significantly stands out from large corporate law firms. While their main emphasis is put on fundamentally understanding their clients’ businesses, Lugger | Bankler impress with close and personal client relationships, as well as with a solution-oriented way of working rather than a problem-oriented one.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: PETRA SPIOLA

Representing and advising clients in almost all fields of corporate and business law, Lugger | Bankler Attorneys at Law’s special expertise lies in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, corporate law, litigation and arbitration, as well as in payment services law. An additional key activity of Lugger | Bankler is energy law.“We advise national and international commercial entities and private clients. What makes us stand out is our strongly personal approach,” says Stefanie Lugger, founding partner. Alongside founding partner Kersten Bankler, the duo decided to establish their own law firm

72 | Issue 33 | December 2015

after working as lawyers in large corporate law firms.“We both were convinced that we were able to offer better and more efficient services to our clients than large firms which have to deal with organisational challenges,” Kersten Bankler notes. Thus, the fundamental idea was to establish a law office with strongly personal and tailormade advice, short decision-making routes, quick response time and an efficient, solution-oriented way of working.

The individual expertise of Stefanie Lugger (litigation and arbitration, payment serv-

ices and energy law) and Kersten Bankler (mergers and acquisitions, corporate and commercial law) perfectly complement each other and therefore solidify the foundation of the law firm.Their success proves that they have made the right decisions, with numerous happy national and international clients confirming that the founding partners have evaluated the needs of clients correctly.“The added value for our clients is obvious: we find solutions for their matters in an uncomplicated, quick and efficient way,” Stefanie Lugger smiles.

Kersten Bankler adds: “Our well-attuned team of highly qualified lawyers shows great commitment for our clients. We love what we do.” This can be felt throughout their entire range of juridical work which impresses with a high degree of competency and reliability. www.lugger-bankler.at

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SEB voted best Private Bank in German-speaking Europe Over 100 private banks were tested by Fuchsbriefe publishing house with IQF and risk analysis specialists Quanvest. Their conclusion in 2014 noted, “SEB Private Banking Luxembourg stands out in almost every category: in addition to brilliant advice, the competition cannot keep up in terms of either investment proposals or transparency.”

Our international network of private banking offices will look after all aspects of your family finances, from daily transactions to long term investments. Its services cover everything from tailored financial management, through to helping you to optimise the legal and tax structures within which your assets are held.

As one of the world’s strongest banks* and with more than 150 years of experience in private banking, we have just what it takes to ensure your future prosperity.

To find out what SEB can do for your personal wealth, contact us in London or Luxembourg: London Private Banking Team +44 (0) 20 7246 4225 privatebanking@seb.co.uk

Ulrich Graner +352 (0) 2623 2310 kontakt@sebgroup.lu

BEST PRIV

Gregor Neumann +352 (0) 2623 2881 kontakt@sebgroup.lu

A TE B ANK

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*SEB is ranked 9th in the world according to Bloomberg report June 2014

Sweden • Norway • Denmark • Finland • Luxembourg • Switzerland • United Kingdom • Singapore • Estonia • Latvia • Lithuania

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Specialist for excellent presentations

Keynote Coach Der Regisseur unter den Top-Trainern!

Frank Asmus ist Regisseur, „Best-of-Trainer“ 2014 und Top Executive Coach für strategische Präsentationen. Seine Kunden sind Konzernvorstände, Geschäftsführer und Unternehmer. Frank Asmus lehrt als Kommunikationsexperte u.a. an der Technischen Universität Berlin.

frankasmus.com +49.30.44 04 27 76 · office@frankasmus.com

Referenzen: Apple Inc., Airbus S.A.S., Allianz SE, Audi AG, Axa Konzern AG, BASF SE, Bayer AG, BMW Group, Robert Bosch GmbH, Continental AG, Deutsche Telekom AG, Henkel AG, HSBC Trinkaus & Burkhardt AG, Kühne + Nagel AG, Liganova GmbH, L'Oréal Deutschland GmbH, Merck KGaA, Novartis AG, Pfizer Deutschland GmbH, Roche Diagnostics, SAP AG, Shopware AG, Siemens AG, Software AG, Swarovski KG, Volkswagen AG, u.v.a.

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Austria’s Legal Experts

Eric Breiteneder, a law expert on an international level The international financial litigation law firm Breiteneder Rechtsanwälte. Attorneys at Law focuses on investor protection and on reaching long-lasting solutions in mass damages.

TEXT: NADINE CARSTENS I PHOTOS: ERIC BREITENEDER

The Volkswagen (VW) scandal has lately been dominating the news worldwide. Especially institutional investors have suffered enormous damage in the past weeks due to manipulated emission tests in cars. In order to support the aggrieved parties, attorney at law Eric Breiteneder and his team currently collect data of victims and give advice to VW customers and investors. As one of the leading Austrian and internationally recognised law firms, Breiteneder Rechtsanwälte.

Attorneys at Law specialise in investor and consumer protection, securities litigation, as well as capital markets and dispute resolutions. Therefore, the company domiciled in Vienna provides a high level of expertise in the field of collective redress.

selective laws from other countries.”Hence, Breiteneder Rechtsanwälte. Attorneys at Law provides solutions that give investors efficient ways to claim for their damages. In order to maintain their duties as attorneys at law, Breiteneder explains that“it is necessary to be very organised, otherwise we could not deal with the thousands of victims involved”.

Portrait: Eric Breiteneder, attorney at law since 2004 © Eric Breiteneder; Photo: Foto Wilke, Wien (www.wilke.at)

In the case of the VW scandal, the law firm now advises two non-profit foundations to pursue claims against VW. “Consolidated action is important to gain a strong negotiation position for reaching an agreement with VW,” Breiteneder affirms. According to him, timely settlements with car owners and investors will allow the car manufacturer to finish with the past, but also to indemnify the aggrieved parties.

Eric Breiteneder: www.breiteneder.pro Non-profit foundations: www.stichtingvolkswageninvestorsclaim.com www.stichtingvolkswagencarclaim.com

Acting on an international level is one of the major assets of the law firm, which was founded in 2009. For its work on complex multinational cases with some of the biggest law offices in the USA and Europe in the field of mass damages, Breiteneder’s team has received international acknowledgement. The Austrian law firm was, for example, rated among the top 50 law firms worldwide dealing with dispute resolution by the Acquisition International magazine. It is also a founding member of the International Financial Litigation Network based in New York and Madrid.

“Many other law firms also claim they would work internationally, but in fact they just mean to be a national part of an international law firm network,” says Breiteneder, who has been working as an attorney at law since 2004.“Since Austrian and most European jurisdictions do not offer proper solutions for mass damages, we effectively use alliances between national and

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Special Theme

Architecture & Design

Henning Larsen Architects

People, space and daylight Architecture is experienced at eye level and the relationship between space and people is at the heart of the design process at Henning Larsen Architects. It forms part of their Scandinavian approach.

TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: NIC LEHOUX + HUFTON CROW

Essential to a building’s‘personality’is the creative plus, the inspiration, which is left to the artistry of the architects. In the case of Henning Larsen Architects, this aspect produces truly astonishing results, for example an accessible roof meadow for the Moesgaard Museum in Denmark, or the light-reflecting glass brick façade of the acclaimed ‘Harpa’concert hall and conference centre in Reykjavík.

the Icelandic office Batteríið Architects and the Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson, who developed the façade made of 12-sided quasi-bricks together with Henning Larsen Architects. Seen from the foyer, the halls resemble a mountain-like massif of basalt rocks, forming a strong contrast to the open façade.

At the core, the main concert hall unfolds its interior as a glowing red centre.

Winner of the 2013 Mies van der Rohe award, the‘Harpa’was designed in collaboration with

The two key elements of the building are light and transparency. The changing day-

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light is captured and reflected by the façade, thereby creating a constant play of light, shadow and colour in the foyer. Situated in an exposed spot right by the ocean, the imposing building provides views both of the sea and the mountains.

Founder Henning Larsen was born in 1925 near Ringkøbing, Denmark. He studied both in London and Copenhagen, worked with the functionalist Arne Jacobsen and collaborated with colleagues until he finally opened his own office in 1959. Ever since, Henning Larsen Architecture has grown into an internationally recognised institution. As architect and professor, he spread his philosophy of humane architecture all over the world, with offices in Northern

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wide span of typologies: “From children's day care centres to crematoriums”. Central to their work are cultural and educational projects, buildings for large organisations and the development of urban communities. They engage in big scale projects, both for the public and private sector, from museums and universities to offices for large companies such as the German Siemens group.

Through winning the competition for the new Siemens headquarters right in the heart of Munich, the German Henning Larsen branch was born. The Siemens headquarters will open in 2016.The project took four years of realisation and focuses on energy efficiency and a sustainable design, for example through a sloping façade, providing the offices with generous amounts of daylight. A significant extra is the public access to the complex: green courtyards create semi-public domains where employees and visitors alike can wander about at their leisure, take a look around and rest from the urban hustle and bustle outside.

Main image & above: Harpa Concert Hall in Iceland Right: Siemens Headquarters in Munich

Europe, Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong. By now, Henning Larsen Architects consist of 300 employees around the globe, with the main office still located in Copenhagen.

Architect and partner Werner Frosch, head of the Munich branch, says it is a common expression at the office that Henning Larsen Architects work with design for a

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Accessibility and walkable structures are a signature aspect of Henning Larsen Architects’ work, to be experienced also at the Moesgaard Museum near the Danish city of Aarhus. Seen from afar, the museum practically morphs into the landscape – looking at once natural and ultramodern.

People can rest from the exhibitions or simply have a picnic on the grass-covered

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roofs of the terraced building. From inside, the big glass walls of the foyer make the outside visually accessible, allowing a panoramic view of the Aarhus bay. Following the Larsen principle of the inspirational aspect, the museum forms a link between the archaeological exhibitions and the world outside. Through visiting both the inside and the outside, the past and the

present, the visitor thus becomes a “traveller in time and space”.

In Germany, the Siemens Headquarters are by far not the first German Henning Larsen project and definitely not the last. Germany has profited from Henning Larsen Architecture for more than half a century and the ever increasing amount of current projects mean a great deal of work for the 30 people at the Munich office. Apart from the Siemens Headquarters, another high-profile project has been in the making: also opening in 2016, the Citizen and Media Centre Stuttgart is designed as an expansion for the parliament building of BadenWürttemberg.

Shaped in the form of an amphitheatre, the centre features a circular open-air space in the centre, inspired by the Greek marketplace, the ‘Agora’. The structure of the actual building is set below ground level. Cylindrical windows provide ample daylight and, despite the subterranean nature of the building, the layout suggests a light-filled, breathing space with

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huge glass panels providing a view of the ’Agora’. The construction for this challenging project began in 2013 and is designed to welcome the estimated 40,000 annual visitors. It can be used either in connection with the modernist parliament building or as a separate space for press conferences, events and exhibitions.

Visitors enter the space through lifts or the grand semi-circular stairways which feed the impression of entering a Greek theatre.

The centre’s position set in the ground avoids aesthetic interference with the listed landmark building of the parliament and, just like the Moesgaard Museum, completely adjusts to the green surroundings.

Drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings is a recurring theme with Henning Larsen Architects.Yet sustainable aspects such as reduced life-cycle costs and energy efficiency are high on their agenda.

An impressive example of the effective use

of daylight and temperature is the Kolding Campus project for the SDU University of Southern Denmark. The Kolding Campus façade features an expressionist looking array of moving triangular shades which give the design an origami-like appeal. The solar shades react to a sensory system, thereby making the utmost use of daylight and warmth in winter as well as providing sufficient shading in the summer. In addition to the both functional and aesthetic façade, the building also features energy efficient solutions with, for example, the indoor climate being regulated by a cooler pump system that uses groundwater for both heating and cooling.

What sums up the multiple approaches of the many architects who work for the institution Henning Larsen Architects? How do they connect? Werner Frosch states that the communication with Copenhagen is frequent, from competition through planning to construction phase. Regular meetings provide backup, support and ex-

change of ideas – that way the offices stay interconnected.

But what is the main idea behind Henning Larsen Architects? What formed one man's mind in post-war times when it came to defining an international and democratic approach to architecture?

It is the balancing act to connect inspiration and responsibility for the environment – or as Werner Frosch puts it, the human dimension. The human being set in the world, is the angle from which Henning Larsen Architects operate and the clients, be it private investors or institutions, indulge in“embarking on the journey“, with curiosity and an open mind. www.henninglarsen.com

Opposite: Moesgaard Museum in Denmark. (top) Visitor's Centre in Stuttgart. (bottom) Below: Kolding Campus in Denmark.

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Back to the roots Frankfurt-based architecture firm STEFAN FORSTER ARCHITEKTEN successfully unites the building achievements of the golden ‘20s with the needs of today’s city residents. In our interview, lead architect Stefan Forster explains how.

TEXT: SONJA IRANI | PHOTOS: STEFAN FORSTER ARCHITEKTEN

“One of today’s most important trends when it comes to residential living is the renaissance of the city, also known as reurbanisation,”illustrates Forster.“Cities are growing globally. People move from the country back to the city and make the conscious decision to live in an urban environment. Urban living solutions therefore become increasingly important focal points.” The questions that come up are how to create affordable living spaces for all city residents including student halls and subsidised social housing, how to make ef-

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ficient use of limited space in prospering cities and how to ‘build green’. After all, modern cities are increasingly affected by climate change, global environmental damage and the limitation of natural resources.

Trust in tradition With 26 years of experience, the expert team at STEFAN FORSTER ARCHITEKTEN know how to tackle the challenges of today’s city residents by looking back at the achievements of yesterday’s architects. First of all, the team specialises in residential

housing construction within large cities.

“We work on all kinds of residential lodging: from the student residence hall to luxury apartments, from subsidised housing to a boarding house,”says Forster. For inspiration, Stefan Forster and his team of 45

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employees then consult the achievements of the past.“Frankfurt can look back on a great tradition when it comes to the development of residential houses,”remembers Forster. “The ‘new Frankfurt’ housing developments that architects such as Ernst May and Mart Stam have created in the 1920s within a remarkable short amount of time, have become world famous. Up until today, they are recognised for their highquality standards.”So, when the experts at STEFAN FORSTER ARCHITEKTEN now develop their drafts, they base these on the dwelling models of Schumacher, Taut and May, then adjust them to people’s contemporary needs. These also include sustainable, or ‘green’building, for example by applying the passive-house standard.

tions for modern, high-dense cities such as Frankfurt am Main. One example is the high-rise building Lyoner Straße, which has been transformed from former office premises into residential living spaces.

Established and recognised Stefan Forster’s unique approach to developing residential living space has quickly generated interest beyond the borders of Germany and awards were soon to follow.

Examples include the Sir Robert Matthew Prize for the Improvement of the Quality of the Human Settlements, awarded by the UIA International Union of Architects, the European Urban and Regional Planning Award, first prize in the category ‘Local Plans - Re-Development’for the re-development of the city of Leinefelde or the

World Habitat Award by the UK’s Building and Social Housing Foundation. The international success motivates Stefan Forster and his team, who currently realise projects Germany-wide, to expand even further. As a first step, an English version of their website is planned to be launched soon. In addition, Stefan Forster and his team can be met at the Expo Real 2016 which will take place from 4 to 6 October 2016 in Munich. www.sfa.de Main image: Frankfurt Westgarten. Photo: Jean Luc Valentin Portrait: SFA Partners Jelena Duchrow, Stefan Forster and Florian Kraft (from left) Below, clockwise from top left: Frankfurt Lyoner Straße. Photo: Lisa Farkas Frankfurt Voltastraße. Photo: Jean Luc Valentin Frankfurt Mühlberg. Photo: Lisa Farkas Community Centre (Gemeindezentrum). Photo: Lisa Farkas Sandweg. Photo: Lisa Farkas

Case study: Frankfurt “Our style is clear, powerful and elegant,”reveals Forster. “Reoccurring themes are the analysis of a place, its history and its building context, the integration of a building project into the existing urban context and green spaces and the recognition by existing residents.”Furthermore, the team pays particular attention to the design of architectonical details. Examples include entrances that are not mere transfer points, but which allow people to properly meet and greet, high-quality façade details and high-quality private exteriors such as loggias, balconies, rooftop terraces, private gardens.“Because of these priorities, clinker brick is our preferred material, which by itself stands for durability,” explains Forster.“We do not believe in ‘superficial en vogue architecture’, which aims at generating short-lived attention for its own marketing purposes. Instead, we base our designs on the great European building traditions dating from the beginnings of the last century. We like to say that we pick up that ‘lost connection’once more.

Our goal is to generate trust in our projects.” Although the main focus of STEFAN FORSTER ARCHITEKTEN is keeping with the 1920s tradition of residential developments in big cities, the architects do make exceptions – such as with their home base Frankfurt am Main.“A special characteristic of Frankfurt’s architecture is its Skyscraper skyline,”explains Forster.Therefore, STEFAN FORSTER ARCHITEKTEN also offers solu-

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Walking the line: how raumwandler architects bridge the divide between the past and the present Acquiring a castle in the former GDR region of Germany is not an unusual move for investors nowadays.

The next step, however, is not that easy.

TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: BERND HIEPE / GUILLAUME HOBI

How to approach a historical or even listed building is a delicate task that experts are asked for. One architect who has specialised on the matter of restoring historical structures and opening them up for new purposes is Uwe Licht, founder of the architects' office ‘raumwandler’ in Berlin. ‘raumwandler’ translates both as ‘space transformers’and‘space walkers’.You could say they are walking on a path between the old and the new, carefully changing the existing structure with regards to both the past and the present. The team of seven consists of architects, engineers and an art historian who specialise in restoring and

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converting historic and listed buildings.

While tackling a myriad of projects in the Berlin area, raumwandler are increasingly getting involved with nationwide projects as well, their latest being the conversion of the former Heppenheim clinics in the Odenwald area, a complex dating back to 1866. Set within alluring green surroundings, the Heppenheim clinics include a horseshoe-shaped array of three large main buildings as well as dormitories and former isolation houses. The complex is to be conversed into 180 housing units. Here, the challenging task includes dealing with restricting elements such as roof trusses constructed of height-reducing wooden struts

– not an easy space to convert into inhabitable snug attic flats.

From the perspective of valuing buildings as historical assets, the raumwandler team focus on an intensive analysis of the existing structure, meanwhile exercising an always fresh and critical view on contemporary architecture itself. Sustainable construction and conversion are one of the main goals of their work as well as the preservation of the historical structure. Architect Uwe Licht has studied both architecture and scenography and is also a trained carpenter. Having specialised in building-protection and making use of long years of practical experience al-

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lows Uwe Licht to do his own planning even within the difficult field of fire prevention concepts. He opened his own office in Berlin in 2005.

Every building that the raumwandler team tackles has its own individual history. This history is being incorporated in the concept and gives each project its own unique character. New elements are always added in context with the building‘s history and the characteristics of the surroundings.

Projects by raumwandler architects include the restructuring and restoration of the former GDR government guest house, set in the park of Schönhausen castle in Berlin Pankow and the former castle of Schloss Güterfelde which, together with several outhouses and a listed ‘rammed earth’ building from the ‘50s, was converted into 36 apartments. While keeping the outer Neo-Renaissance style of the Güterfelde castle, the inside now features modern technical assets such as a lift, aesthetically embedded into the spiral staircase.The adjacent buildings present a clean-cut design, suggesting light and space, therefore accentuating the more decorative appearance of the castle itself.

cept of creating a unique living environment with a definitive link to the representational nature of the former US headquarters. Converted into 120 housing units and business suites, the area is set in West Berlin's green Dahlem borough. The original design dates back to the ‘30s and the complex was taken over as headquarters by the US army in 1945. The buildings’ lean, sculptural aesthetics have been preserved and have also inspired a new building which completes the redesign. Inhabiting a town house on such historical grounds seems like a picturesque everyday experience indeed.

As Uwe Licht states: when it comes to the restoration and conversion of listed buildings, the special appeal lies within the synergy of the old and the new. To find out about the individual historical context, the variations in construction – that is what makes each individual project unique, new and exciting. www.raumwandler.de

Opposite: Gueterfelde Castle ©Terraplan Below: Metropolitan Gardens, Clayallee ©Archlab

Clients approaching raumwandler architects are investors who have acquired a historical or listed building, a purchase which automatically comes with a number of requirements and safety issues that need special attention. Firstly, a historical building structure requires a detailed technical analysis, executed by a skilled team of experts. In addition, the architectural divide between the old and the new needs to be mastered with an open and innovative mind so as to preserve and protect the original building and, at the same time, add the comfort nowadays living requires.

In the case of the Metropolitan Gardens, this has been achieved by adding little details to the original structure such as extra balconies, terraces and private gardens to create privacy. At the same time the conversion allows special trump cards to remain, like up to five-metre high living room walls (and windows).This melts into a con-

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Reduction to the essentials Berlin’s award-winning architectural office Weis & Volkmann stands for intensive communication with clients, intelligent, customised and sustainable building solutions, long-standing experience, as well as a highly qualified and reliable team of employees. Experts in renovating and extending historic structures, Weis & Volkmann’s new buildings impress with innovative simplicity.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: FRANK-HEINRICH MUELLER I WEIS & VOLKMANN I THOMAS RIESE, NUERNBERG

Weis & Volkmann develops and implements a diverse spectrum of building tasks.

Their main emphasis is put on complex reconstruction projects, renovations of landmarked buildings, as well as on realising high-quality and cost-efficient new buildings. Through a network of experienced partners, all required planning services for projects can also be provided. “We offer everything from land analysis and architecture planning in all service phases to realising complex, modular and multi-level projects,” Gabriele Weis, one of the company’s two founders, explains. Co-founder

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Gunnar Volkmann adds:“We offer a holistic planning approach.”

Established in Leipzig in 1995, Weis & Volkmann’s headquarters moved to Berlin in 2014. In both cities, a team of more than 20 highly qualified employees conjointly develops solutions alongside their partners and clients. During this process, transparency and tailor-made solutions play key roles so that the best possible projects can be realised. Clients especially praise the communication quality and reliability of Weis & Volkmann’s team. Putting special

emphasis on teamwork, integrating employees in the entire process and constantly discussing intermediate results, Weis & Volkmann seeks to integrate executing companies in the process at an early stage.

The ability to listen to client needs and wishes makes them the perfect partner for each project.

The source of great architecture “We constantly question everything,” says Gabriele Weis. Gunnar Volkmann smiles: “This is how great architecture is created.

Our designs get developed out of a location and its surroundings.”Thus, their portfolio is full of pragmatic, robust and resilient solutions. Solely using local building materials and constantly considering user needs, their projects primarily stand out due to their simplicity. While contrast is brought about through a contrapuntal use of material and colour, it can be noticed that the use of materials is kept to a minimum and

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that the floor plans always impress with appropriateness.“We don’t have one particular style but we always consider reduction, focusing and accentuation,” says Gabriele Weis.

It seems no wonder that Weis &Volkmann’s portfolio impresses with an exceptional variety and broad range of projects. Furthermore, the office established the KunstRäume Leipzig e.V., which brings impressive multimedia room installations to life. A true expert for city repair tasks, the architects are known for their implantations of complex ensembles into historically grown urban developments and UNESCO World Heritage sites. An example of this is the retailing project ‘Neue Mitte Fürth’, which revitalised an inner-city quarter of Fürth while considering landmarked building structures.The new buildings offer space for restaurants, offices, small shops, doctor’s practices, a fitness studio, as well as a library. The façades orientate themselves towards materiality, proportions and structures of the classicistic surroundings. Some of the street’s existing front buildings were integrated into the new buildings while a glassed top floor gives the façade a distinctive dominance. Large windows in the lower storeys give the retail spaces the needed presence in the road space.

architects were able to intelligently convert the historic premises into a primary school and nursery, while combining old with new architecture. While the church remains the distinctive urban symbol it has been for a long time, the new buildings circularly surround the church and thus are subordinated to the old building in their entire architectural role.

Other remarkable projects include the building of the international youth music 'campus forum thomanum’ in Leipzig where Weis &Volkmann were able to build a new building which visually links historic and contemporary structures. Not only focusing on renovation projects, Weis & Volkmann also builds exceptional new buildings. An example is the residential house‘K3’in Stuttgart which impresses with a distinctively contemporary design. An-

other new multi-family residential building was created in Leipzig’s Hohe Strasse, which beautifully fills the gap between the street’s houses. Project ‘Sweetwater’ in Leipzig is one of the city’s first town house projects. Here, Weis &Volkmann were able to convert existing industrial monuments into 23 spacious residential buildings with a reference to water and with a connection to the region’s historic context. www.weisvolkmann.de Main image: The ‘Stelzenhaus’ in Leipzig-Plagwitz.

Photo: Frank-Heinrich Müller Below: The Martins Church Centre in Bernburg.

Photo: Weis & Volkmann Far below: The retailing project ‘Neue Mitte Fürth’.

Photo: Thomas Riese, Nürnberg Bottom: campus forum thomanum Photo: Weis & Volkmann (left) Multi-family residential building in Leipzig’s Hohe Strasse.

Photo: Weis & Volkmann (middle) Project ‘K3’. Photo: Weis & Volkmann (right)

Weis &Volkmann were also commissioned to work on the reconstruction, extension and rebirth of the ‘Stelzenhaus’ – a wellknown industrial monument in LeipzigPlagwitz. The architectural office was able to preserve the building’s original impression while cautiously restoring the existing structures. On the outside, the building was preserved, the clinker façade and all concrete parts were cleaned and repaired and the historic roof construction was renovated. The modern and light interior design visibly integrated the old steel constructions. Beneath the ground floor zone and in between the building’s stilts, Weis & Volkmann have inserted a‘glassy box’which gives the impression of a floating building.

Another significant and award-winning project of Weis & Volkmann’s portfolio is the reconstruction and extension of the St. Martins Church Centre in Bernburg. The

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Each project is a mission Munich-based architecture firm Studio SOKO's expertise is working on complex projects at the interface of architecture and interior design.

TEXT: DORINA REICHHOLD | PHOTOS: STUDIO SOKO

Team play is part of their name. The word SOKO stems from the abbreviation of the German word Sonderkommission, meaning special commission. It stresses the fact that every project is a new mission for Munich architecture firm Studio SOKO, and asks for a suitable, specially commissioned team to take care of it. The firm's expertise comprises of residential construction, interior construction, hotel and catering facilities as well as office planning.

Studio SOKO is headed by the two partners Sabine Eichbauer and Jochen Kraske.

After graduating at Technische Universität München, both gained in-depth knowl-

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edge while working on various architectural projects in Germany, abroad and as freelance architects, before founding Studio SOKO in 2010. Their success is established by the firm's ever creative approach to new undertakings.

Kraske puts emphasis on the fact that each new building project requires the team to take on a new perspective and look for new solutions. Standard formats, as well as elements and ideas which have been formerly used in other projects, will not be taken into account as the goal is to find perfect individually customised solutions for each new task. The emphasis is always on the

project's requirements.“We see ourselves as translators for the wishes and needs of our clients,“ states Kraske.

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Their working technique is characterised by not decorating an individual building or room, but properly structuring it. This means every element used is connected to the functionality of the respective building and also in accordance to the spirit and history of its location. Every planning element, especially the layout, is carefully thought through so that the usability of the space can be ideally planned from the very beginning. One successful result for this way of proceeding is the project Jahnstraße in Glockenbachviertel, one of Munich`s most popular neighbourhoods.

Studio SOKO created a new building made up of three parts which house a total of 32 living units. The most eyecatching detail is the aluminium façade which depicts a historical city map of the area. This clever detail can be found in various places of the building. One of the tricky parts of the project Jahnstraße, which the Studio SOKO team had to find a solution to, was to build an underground car park whilst preserving an old chestnut tree. The end result was a huge success. A welcoming property which fits neatly into its neighbourhood.

Sudio SOKO has expert knowledge in interior construction and interior design as well as in-depth knowledge and experience in designing yachts. That is why many of their projects are an interface between architecture and interior design, enabling Studio SOKO to proficiently advise their clients on questions of furnishing and different concepts of colouring or lighting solutions. This means that Studio SOKO does not only plan the building but, on the client's request, will also work out each detail of the kitchen`s components in collaboration with the carpenter. The end result will be much more harmonised than a project too many different parties are working on. Studio SOKO's aim is to finish a project in a way which shows that the client's requirements and the local circumstances are met perfectly in an individual solution.

our team can mostly unfold our synergy.

This is when we can discuss and compare our ideas and are the most dynamic,“ explains Kraske. Other steps of the building process are then overseen by individual members of the team, giving everyone certain responsibility of different parts of the project. The team's upcoming schedule is very tight, but still there is a lot more they would like to realise in the future. One of the ambitions is to plan and build a winery.

Sabine Eichbauer, has close family ties to the catering trade and due to that there is a high affinity to wine and viticulture. The architects have already shown some of their creative ideas for the food industry by rebuilding Munich restaurant Terrine as well as the two-star Michelin restaurant Tantris.

For the latter, Studio SOKO elaborately redesigned the lavatories with the ladies room being redecorated according to its original‘70s style in flamboyant bright pink.

In addition, the team also rebuilt the

Tantris' Sommelier's Lounge with a table specially designed for wine tasting. Now the architects are looking forward to working on more projects in this field in the future.

At the moment, Studio SOKO is working on two large housing projects with six and 19 living units respectively. In addition, they are planning a very elaborate interior construction of a listed flat and are working on two redevelopments in Munich and Ingolstadt. More missions to tackle and accomplish for the special commission for 2016. www.studiosoko.de

Main image: Brainagency Media. Photo: Wilson Ortiz Opposite below: Restaurant Tantris (ladies’ washroom).

Photo: Wilson Ortiz Above: Müller & Ziegler. Photo: Wilson Ortiz Below: Jahnstrasse

The architects' favourite part of their job is clearly teamwork.“We enjoy the conceptualising and drafting process a lot because

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wörner traxler richter architects

Mindful planning Looking back on almost 50 years of experience, wörner traxler richter architects are nowadays not only trendsetters by testing the virtual BIM planning method as one of the few in Germany, they have also developed their own modular design system.

TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: FRANK BLÜMLER (PORTRAIT)

They see the benefits of both methods, mainly in gaining time for what matters most to them: architecture itself.Taking part in competitions for wörner traxler richter means to be out there and promote their vision, for example their idea of cross-generational housing to enhance the community spirit. Or for creating a new dimension in museum buildings as a symbiosis between the past and the present, and an open offer to the public.

For designing hospitals, taking their time is the first priority for wörner traxler richter architects. The main goal is to find acceptable

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answers for combining functional aspects with urban development and an architectural vision, a design which satisfies not only the needs of the client but also those of the individual.

The role of a building within site and society, and how this role is being portrayed by design, is a priority. This is where the wörner traxler richter modular design system kicks in.The modular system has been developed and constantly updated over a span of 40 years. Of a highly innovative nature, it acts as an economic tool which allows an instant overview and creates a vision of the whole at an early point. By now, it is successfully applied by wörner traxler

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richter architects for hospitals as well as institutes, museums, living and hotel spaces, for small houses and big structures alike. The typological elements allow an optimised operational function and generate a boost to the environment. They help by creating inner aesthetics, qualified urban development, sustainability and the highest possible efficiency.

The Krankenhaus Schotten project, for example, combines high standards in technical equipment and infrastructure with a design commenting on its natural environment.The new building mirrors the surrounding forest with an open façade which features slender, transparent aluminium shades in varying hues of green. With access to daylight for every room, both the inner and outer design accentuates and values the environment and thereby also comments on the healing qualities of nature.

Especially the construction of hospitals means dealing not only with multiple demands, but also with a large variety of people. wörner traxler richter aim at the best possible combination of economical and human factors. Forming a relationship with the client and co-workers is so important to them that they have written a whole book on the subject. It was published by Swiss publisher Niggli, carrying the title einfach architektur.

For example, the successful planning process for the future museum of Bavarian History incorporates the wörner traxler richter philosophy of mutual respect, tolerance, benevolence and commitment to the project. To be opened in 2018, the 100th anniversary of the free state of Bavaria, the museum is designed to be a “futuristic house for contemporary history“.The blueprint shows an integration of parts of the inner city of Regensburg: The Hunnenplatz and the Eschergasse. As Stefan Traxler emphasises: the museum will be designed to serve both function and city. He sees the spot as a wound within the city in need to be healed. The planning deals with such environmental aspects a new building set within a historic town centre often has to deal with: wobbly ground, the direct vicin-

ity of listed buildings and the tides of the nearby Danube river. Last but not least, the planning process actively integrates ideas and suggestions by citizens.

Big projects are tackled by wörner traxler richter with the digital BIM planning system.

A forerunner within Germany, the system is already largely applied in other parts of Europe, like the UK, and allows an optimised planning process to combine the various functional and aesthetic requirements with regards to cost and time frames. BIM means using an intelligent 3D model to allow visualisation and simulation of the project and provides collaborative tools for the various parties involved. Business goals and time frames as well as aesthetics and efficiency can all be harmonised by using this planning method, thereby significantly speeding up the planning process. wörner traxler richter will share their experience after making use of BIM for several large-scale projects in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

When asked about the quintessence of wörner traxler richter architecture, they state that they are driven by constant motion and development. With almost 50 years of experience, their spectrum is wide and large and they are well trained in spotting profound sociological and economical currents and react on them in developing trends, which serve both the clients and building culture itself. Frequent and interdisciplinary exchange are as important to them as serving society. www.wtr-architekten.de

Main image: Museum of Bavarian History, Regensburg.

Portrait: Partners Petra Wörner, Stefan Traxler and Martin Richter. (from left) Top: Schotten general hospital. (left) Felix Platter Spital in Basel, realised through digital BIMplanning system. (right) Above: German General Hospital project in Abu Dhabi.

Below: Universitätsklinikum Dresden - Medical radiation centre OncoRay. (left) Fraunhofer IZFP in Saarbrücken. (right)

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schneider+schumacher Always unique and focussing on a location’s culture When Till Schneider and Michael Schumacher were named A&W Architects of the Year 2015, it was no wonder as they count towards the best-known architectural offices in Germany. In the preceding years, schneider+schumacher have been awarded more than 80 national and international awards for their buildings and concepts.

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF

“Our architecture is not subject to a stylistic dogma, because architecture can’t be simplified. We impartially face new architectural tasks and get inspired by the individual culture of a place. This is our design strategy,” Michael Schumacher, owner and managing director of schneider+schumacher, says with a smile.

In 1988, Till Schneider and Michael Schumacher founded their architectural office in Frankfurt am Main. In the following years, additional, closely related companies resulted from this and are now accumulated under the roof of schneider+ schumacher. Besides offering purely architectural planning services, the companies provide construction and project management, urbanistic analyses, as well as product design (i.e. lamps and tables). Innova-

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tions in the planning process, such as parametric designing, also contribute to an accurate implementation of the projects. Potsdamer Platz’s legendary red Info-Box on Europe’s biggest construction site in Berlin, shortly after the reunification of Germany, made schneider+schumacher famous beyond the borders of Frankfurt. Meanwhile, more than 100 buildings, urban projects and numerous product developments make up the portfolio of schneider+schumacher.

The planning spectrum ranges from residential constructions to industrial constructions, from autobahn churches to high-rise buildings and from museums to particle accelerators. In the meantime, the office has grown to include around 130 employees and now also operates abroad in additional offices in Vienna and China’s Tianjin.

A fundamental principle for schneider+ schumacher’s architecture is the ambition to combine the doable with the poetic. They seek to find the real problem of the task, before creating something out of it, which bestows everyday life with distinct magic and which can self-evidently be absorbed by its environment. This design strategy can be summarised as ‘poetic pragmatism’. One of the most recent examples of schneider+ schumacher’s impressive portfolio is the Autobahn Church Siegerland in Wilnsdorf.

The question, which arose for the architects, was, how it would succeed to create a small chapel, which offers a calm space in the rough environment of an autobahn service area. The solution for this problem: an outside shape, which is derived from the

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design

signpost that points out autobahn churches in Germany. This clear, edgy external shape stands in strong contrasts to the soft and cosy interior, which assimilates the visitor as soon as one steps in and which lets one forget the outside world. Through its visual directness, the sacral building can hold its ground in the contrasting surroundings of the autobahn service area with its trucks and its petrol station and offers an intimate room for contemplation on its inside.

The extension of the Städel Museum also resulted from integrating the urbanistic and historic context to a large extent.The idea of placing the new museum hall beneath the garden and supplying the building with daylight through a memorable pattern of ceiling openings, gave the built environment room to breathe. At the same time, a unique and distinctive museum design was created through the special‘eyes for the art’.

air corridors, a form was needed which is as unproblematic as possible in regards to aerodynamics. Even though the tower is not the highest in the city, it’s still Frankfurt’s landmark symbol.

GmbH & Co. KG. Whether in Germany, Austria or China – schneider+schumacher meet the complex demands, which characterise building tasks today, with playful delight.

Current projects of schneider+schumacher are the particle accelerator in Darmstadt, the extension of the Mannheim Business School in the Castle of Mannheim, as well as the Qianhai Justice Centre in China’s Shenzhen. Further exciting projects are planned for the future. An example is a design for a housing development project for Mainzer Zollhafen which is called‘DOXX’.

Developed by schneider+schumacher and bb22 Architects (investors PRIMUS developments GmbH/Bee Capital), the design was already chosen as the winner for the competition ‘Hafenkai’ by the Zollhafen

www.schneider-schumacher.de

Main image: The Städel Museum, Frankfurt. Photo: Norbert Miguletz Top: The Städel Museum on the inside with HR symphony orchestra. Photo: Ben Knabe (left) The Westhafen Tower, Frankfurt.

Photo: Kirsten Bucher (middle) The exterior of the Autobahn Church. Photo: Helen Schiffer (above) The interior of the Autobahn Church. Photo: Jörg Hempel Below: The housing development project ‘DOXX’ in Mainzer Zollhafen. Photo: schneider+schumacher, bb22 (left) The Info-Box, Berlin. Photo: Jörg Hempel (bottom left) Ölhafen Bridge, Raunheim. Photo: Jörg Hempel (right) Portrait: Founders Till Schneider (left) and Michael Schumacher (right). Photo: Kirsten Bucher

The Westhafen Tower, whose façade often gets compared to the structure of an apple wine glass, which is widespread in Frankfurt, gave the city a new symbol. However, the tower has a round shape for other reasons. On the one hand, all town entrances from the Middle Ages had round towers.

The Westhafen Tower, which can be found at the beginning of the Westhafen harbour, also marks an entrance to Frankfurt, in fact the one at the Friedensbrücke. On the other hand, the round shape was chosen due to aerodynamics. Because of the tower’s location in close proximity to river Main, which is one of Frankfurt’s most important fresh

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To build, to think, to sense, and to live The Munich-based architect Thomas Pscherer closely observes the surroundings in which his buildings and structures will eventually exist. The high aspirations of the buildings are also reflected in the use of the natural, recycled or energyefficient materials.

TEXT: ELISABETH DOEHNE | PHOTOS: THOMAS PSCHERER

Thomas Pscherer opened his architecture firm in 1996 with a mission of making excellent, custom-built, minimal and energyspecific houses and spaces. From the first project phase of planning and consulting, the architect always looks at spaces holistically. His objective of exploring the relationship between order, structure and natural beauty is reflected in his building philosophy.

“I am very inspired by art, music and theatre and, of course, by the constructions and atmospheres that I experience everyday. My goal is to develop customised designs that have their own language and a sense of serenity. I work closely with good craftsmen and artisans and together we work on new solutions,”says Pscherer.

he won the prestitgious German Design Award. The house looks like a sculpture that creates a unity between the moss and the wood structures. Large windows open the rooms and the minimalistic and clear design enhances the strong relationship of the aesthetic, to the landscape and the natural light.

In addition to his ongoing projects, the architect has also been recognised with design awards and nominations for his creative work. For his project‘Haus im Moos’,

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Above: Thomas Pscherer, Haus im Moos, view of the sunroom, winner of the German Design Award.

Thomas Pscherer, Haus im Moos, South view, winner of the German Design Award.

Sensible structures and natural materials enhance the authenticity of the historic restaurant Elbacher Gütel.

Portrait: Thomas Pscherer.

“I enjoy working on unusual projects that challenge me and give me the chance to develop new unconventional forms. A few years ago I rebuilt a former bank model house into a studio in the Alps. All of the materials for the façade were recycled. This metamorphosis was very exciting for me and I hope to work on topics that are socially relevant,”explains Pscherer.

First idea to realisation

Recognition and projects

Main image: Thomas Pscherer, Haus im Moos, winner of the German Design Award.

From single-family homes to public and private projects, restaurants, and frequent collaborations with artists, Thomas Pscherer’s designs are well integrated with the sites so that they become part of a uni-

fied, interrelated composition.

He works with a small number of clients each year and this freedom allows him to oversee all steps of the design and planning process personally. www.pscherer-architekt.de

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Special Theme

Exclusive Real Estate

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Exclusive Real Estate Germany

Traditionally modern realty since 1959 For over 50 years, Ott Immobilien has owned, sold, developed, let and managed properties across residential and commercial sectors. As one of the leading German real estate firms, Ott Immobilien has always combined professional responsibility with profound expertise, detailed market knowledge, strategic partnerships and individual and personalised client support. In the near future, they seek to expand nationally and globally.

Opposite: Ott Immobilien’s office.

Portraits: Dieter H. Ott founded Ott Immobilien in 1959. (left) Stephan Ott has been involved in the company since 2004 and recently succeeded his father as CEO. (right) Bottom: Ott Immobilien has remained in the same headquarters in Cologne since 1959. (left) The company originally launched under the name Ott & Co. but has since become an AG. (right)

TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: OTT IMMOBILIEN

When Dieter Ott founded Ott Immobilien in 1959, it started off as a small brokerage firm. Initially the company primarily acquired used buildings before they focussed increasingly on selling, acquisitions, and developments of multi-family units and general brokerage services. When his son Stephan became more involved in the family business in 2004, Ott Immobilien’s primary focus on Cologne, North-Rhine Westphalia steadily expanded to include the US market. Having studied in Boston and New York, Stephan managed to provide a fresh, international impetus for Ott Immobilien.

Today, Ott Immobilien is able to offer holistic real estate solutions from brokerage to investment management. Stephan Ott declares: “We’re a one-stop shop for real estate.“ Expertise through tradition Ott Immobilien was able to withstand the test of time through a traditional, yet undervalued approach.“Germany’s brokerage sector is oversaturated and lacks experts who can and want to relate to the cus-

tomer. That’s why we’re here,“ says Stephan Ott. With their regional expertise and extensive network, their skilled team of specialist employees is sure to fulfil the highest quality and service demands, as well as to offer personalised client support.

Seeing themselves as holistic service providers, individual wishes of clients stand

at the core of Ott Immobilien’s doings.“Our team offers customised solutions for each property, as well as the best possible and most realistic advice,“ Stephan Ott notes.

He adds: “The reputation we were able to build up over time has led to high client retention and an ever growing referral network. Our personal approach stands out

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from competitors who often sacrifice genuineness and politeness. We focus on integrity and honesty, as well as transparency – all crucial components of our industry.”

For more than 50 years, Ott Immobilien has adhered to these philosophies. In doing so, Father and Son, along with long-time COO Dirk Frenzel, have united all needed competencies under one roof in their headquarters in Cologne.

Property sales “Each property is unique and associated with a high material and emotional value.

Thus, it deserves the highest attention,” says Stephan Ott. Whether a client wants to sell a house, an apartment or an office building, Ott Immobilien accompanies their clients throughout the entire selling process, from personal initial consultation to the notary appointment and even after the contract conclusion. Their expert team, led by home-grown sales head Sven Becker, is sure to offer tailor-made solutions with a high degree of expertise and reliability whether for a house in need of rehabilitation, a divorce property or one with financing problems. Part of this process includes finding the right market price. Ott Immobilien knows the different price levels in line with the markets and includes all factors which can influence prop-

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erty value to find a corresponding, and realistic, selling price for each property through a free and non-binding market price assessment.

Property development Over the years, Ott Immobilien has been involved in development, coordinating multi-family housing projects from planning through to execution across the region. Whether a ground-up construction or the renovation and division of existing properties into condominiums, these approaches have been at the centre of the company activities. “Development is crucial within Germany as, statistically speaking, supply continues to lag demand and this trend is only poised to continue. Those

who have the resources and access to the limited available land within core cities will be more than thrilled with their investments years down the line,”claims Stephan Ott. Ott Immobilien continues to expand its role in the sourcing, brokering and management of development projects.

Property rentals One cannot dismiss the importance of property rentals, as Ott Immobilien are able to find the perfect tenant for each property through diligence and their long-term local and market knowledge. They individually advise and accompany their clients in all phases of the renting process from taking over the property from the tenant, to the realisation of special client wishes, object

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presentation, marketing measures, contract design, handover of the property and posttransaction follow up and support. A strong network and a comprehensive database of prospective tenants offer each property a solvent customer base. Even when a property is left in a bad state following a tenancy, Ott Immobilien is able to competently and reliably stand by its clients’ side through a network of renovation experts. Their team of specialists optimises the rentability and value of an object in an efficient, prompt and cost-effective way.

Property management Besides offering common estate agent services, Ott Immobilien successfully manages a continuously growing portfolio of thirdparty and company-owned properties. For this reason, Ott Immobilien founded its property management division in 1990 for all property and rental management services. Since then, clients can expect personal care and advice, as well as custom-made and holistic property management services from a single source. The company‘s offers range from commercial and legal to technical management services of properties.

For this, Ott Immobilien closely cooperates with a network of property specialists and handicraft businesses because their “ultimate goal is to increase the value of our clients‘ properties”, according to Stephan Ott.

Investment management and venture capital The aforementioned services have been trademarks of the Ott brand for many years, and now Ott Immobilien seeks to expand nationally and globally. While they have already targeted core cities including Berlin, Düsseldorf and Frankfurt, their primary focus remains the preservation of company culture. Thus, even though the team will significantly grow, Stephan Ott points out that their “values, with an emphasis on personalised service, will stay at the core of our operations”. At the moment, Stephan Ott, together with business partner and collegiate roommate Peter Cohen, has launched NewYork-based Ott CapitalVentures, which acts as the official investment management division of Ott Immobilien. This represents Ott Immobilien’s expansion of their diverse portfolio on to an international stage.

“It’s exciting times for us. Ott Capital Ventures is sourcing investment in Germany and the USA for property projects and innovative start-ups in the real estate sector. By fusing real estate-oriented projects in top US and core German cities we are giving investors access to new markets while providing the comfort of local oversight. From a business standpoint, we want to support the growth of infrastructure, business and philanthropy in these locales as it is our duty to contribute our part to

these economies,”comments Stephan Ott. He adds:“This is critical as desirable cities continue to grow. The omnipresent urbanisation leads to the loss of suburbs and residential housing space gets increasingly important while also creating opportunities for new businesses and services to succeed.

Furthermore, in times of the media-labelled ‘migration crisis‘, it is our duty to do something and this includes the real estate sphere. We need to put an increasing focus on development and on providing social housing in short term.“ Currently in the middle of the investment phase, Ott Capital Ventures is expected to close at the end of next year. “With the constantly evolving environment, we continue to adapt and deliver the best service that our customers deserve. Our mission is to become THE real estate solution,“ concludes Stephan Ott. www.ottimmobilien.com www.ottventure.com Opposite: The team of experts in Cologne that have been both fiercely loyal to the company but also responsible for its success. From left to right: Jessica Nowatzki, Petra Hermann, Adelgunde Stammel, Sven Becker, Alexander Kamper, Dirk Frenzel, Dominik Klein and Sascha van Walsem (top). The team sends love and support to the family of core member Sebastian Glehn, who tragically passed away last month.

Ott Capital Ventures was launched in 2015 by partners Stephan Ott and Peter Cohen and focuses on real estate and venture capital. (middle) Below: Just some of many properties within the company’s portfolio.

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Revival of high-rise buildings The residential project ‘FRIENDS‘ makes international lifestyle trends en vogue in Munich.

TEX & PHOTOS: LBBW IMMOBILIEN | TRANSLATION: NANE STEINHOFF

High-quality living spaces for expats, international flight connections and diverse leisure opportunities: Munich is currently the number one city in Germany and number four worldwide in regards to quality of life. This quality attracts not only foreign, but also skilled German personnel. By the end of 2018, Munich’s population is supposed to exceed the 1.6 million mark. Ten years later, the number will have increased to an estimated 1.7 million, according to the current demography report of the city.

Thus, developers of residential properties face corresponding challenges: they have to create more living spaces while the shortage of available spaces increases and, at the same time, have to amplify international demands and multi-facetted lifestyles. With their real estate project FRIENDS, the

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LBBW Immobilien Management GmBH, alongside their partners, are realising a project until the summer of 2016 which rises to these challenges and which will be future-oriented and pioneering not only for Munich’s property market.

To meet the challenges of Munich’s property market such as changed living conditions and attitutes towards ways of living, a rising population, housing shortage, increasing buying and rental prices, LBBW Immobilien and their partners have developed a lifestyle and architecture concept through LBBW Immobilien’s Munich subsidiary IMBW Capital & Consulting GmbH, which already takes up the trends and needs of tomorrow today. The foundation of the conception was a comprehensive market and location

analysis, as well as a qualitative survey of apartment seekers in Munich. The result: city dwellers live better and more flexibly and thus change their attitudes to life; also in regards of living concepts. New projects have to be adapted to face these new challenges. For both of the 53-metre-high buildings with approximately 130 flats, each of which are being developed west of the Wilhelm-Hale-Street in the urban city district Neuhausen-Nymphenburg of Munich, a concept was therefore developed which takes up lifestyle trends, such as sustainability, sharing, collaborative consumption, 24-hour society, as well as new possibilities of technology.

A space concept was develeoped which creates additional space in the individual flats through an intelligent relocation of storage spaces in the basement and through a compact arrangement of bathroom, kitchen, utility and dressing rooms in an innovative cube system in the flats.

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Through this, open floor plans were developed in the 2.8-metre-high units. If required, the flats can also be divided through dry wall constructions so that a threebedroom apartment can quickly be turned into a four-bedroom flat. When needed, the apartment can simply be converted back into a loft at a later stage. Furthermore, the one to three-bedroom flats can even be merged if one wishes.

In the flats themselves, one can find more space in the 45-square-metre large units than in comparable objects. Even the 120square-metre flats appear larger than elsewhere too. Also planned are numerous sharing spaces: two 200-square-metre large rooftop terraces on both residential buildings will be accessible to all residents where they can enjoy a magnificent view of the city and even as far as the Alps, a fully equipped kitchen lounge in which the inhabitants can cook and celebrate with friends, a deli, as well as a gym. A house keeper will accept parcels during the day, will organise flat and laundry cleaning services or get that flat bicycle tyre repaired. For the design of the metal-glass facade, the Munich architecture office Allmann Sattler Wappner have set on a contemporary design. Protruding elements with three-dimensional and wide floor-toceiling windows exude elegance and dynamics and create projections inside the flats which enable 180-degree panoramic views across the city, countryside and mountains.

focus lies on the core markets of BadenWĂźrttemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Munich, the Rhine-Main region, as well as Berlin.

At the moment, there isn’t another comparable project to be found across Germany which combines such a multitude of services regarding concept, facilities and location and the high demand shows that the concept goes down well. Currently, around 75 per cent of all apartments are sold.Thus, FRIENDS could indeed have an exemplary character for other cities and projects.

Consequently, the LBBW Immobilien group can provide the entire property-economic range of services competently from a single source.

About the LBBW Immobilien group LBBW Immobilien is the property competence within the group of companies of the Landesbank (state bank) of Baden-WĂźrttemberg (LBBW) and belongs to the larger property companies in Germany. Its regional

In the segment of development, all concentrated project development activities are those associated with the development and realisation of residential and commercial properties, starting with the planning permission and conception to implementation and marketing measures. Whether alone or alongside partners, LBBW Immobilien acts as an investor or deals with the project development dealings of third parties as a service provider. In the area of asset management, LBBW Immobilien offers all services for investors and owners that surround their real estate investment. Several tasks of asset and property management are seamlessly provided by one source. Additionally, the company offers municipal services in the segment of real estate services, such as in building land or property development.

www.lbbw-immobilien.de www.wohnen-im-friends.de Main image: FRIENDS describes two 53-metre-high buildings with approximately 130 flats each.

Left, from top: Protruding elements exude elegance.

Wide floor-to-ceiling windows exude dynamics.

Rooftop terraces on both residential buildings will be accessible to all residents.

Below: Impressive views across the city and the mountains are guaranteed. (left) The kitchen lounge of FRIENDS. (middle) The reception hall of FRIENDS. (right)

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pantera AG Not only a property but a mountain retreat: Energy efficient and luxurious chalets on the Swiss Lauchernalp Who does not dream of owning a retreat, a second home away from home in the middle of a breathtakingly beautiful landscape? The newly built chalets at the Lauchernalp Eden Mountain Estate by real estate expert Pantera AG offers buyers exactly that – and much more: a typical Alpine building with modern touches built to highest energy standards.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: PANTERA AG

With a view over the valley and the surrounding mountains, the chalets and apartments at the Lauchernalp Eden Mountain Estate provide the best the Swiss Alps have to offer: untouched nature, good transport connections, local restaurants and bars and an abundance of activities during summer and winter. The Lauchernalp lies above the Swiss community of Wiler, in the German speaking part of the CantonValais. Situated on a sunny terrace with views over the valley, the Lauchernalp is only a small holiday settlement with local amenities like restaurants and a panorama ropeway. Unlike

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other regions, the Lauchernalp still boasts its original charm.

Alpine living with a modern touch The Lauchernalp Eden Mountain Estate consists of 26 two and three-story chalets (131 to 277 square metres each) and 54 apartments (49 to 235 square metres) spread over three buildings. The architecture and matching interior design are a mixture of typical alpine style and a modern approach: open plan living and southfacing panorama windows, high ceilings and light-flooded rooms. Modern bath-

rooms and high-end surfaces made of wood and natural stone complete the interior design.To give customers a choice, two design lines are under offer: nature and classic. DAVINCI HAUS is building the chalets as prefabricated timber frame construction, making wood the essential – and natural – element used in building.

“The prices vary between 7,500 and 8,000 Swiss francs per square metre,” says Michael Ries from pantera Sotheby´s International Realty, who have the chalets under exclusive offer,“this is absolutely favourable in comparison with other buildings currently offered in the Swiss mountain region.” The price includes using public areas like the Eden lounge with its excellent restaurant, a bar and a pool, fitness and wellness area. If required, a concierge offers hotel-like service according to individual demands.

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Exclusive Real Estate Switzerland

A holiday residence for Swiss citizens and a home away from home for international buyers The new chalets aim at different target groups: Swiss citizens for example who want to buy a holiday residence, but were not able to do so due to a regulation limiting the second home share in sought-after regions to 20 per cent in total. This affected especially the cantons Valais, Grisons, Ticino, Bern and Vaud. Independent from these regulations, permission has been granted – with an entry in the land register – for the Lauchernalp Eden Mountain Estate to use the chalets as a second home.

Zermatt and Crans Montana.”The airport Sion also lies in short distance.

“A second group are customers from foreign countries who want to benefit from a permanent residence status,”says Michael Ries, who is also a board member of the pantera AG. “At the end of the process it is even possible to become a Swiss citizen.”Of course this also includes businessmen and women working part-time in Switzerland.

It is not for nothing that the mountain estate’s motto is “The power of slow”: often enough managers search for a calm place to relax after work and might find it in one of the chalets that are not far away from, and well connected to, important Swiss business centres.“The resort can be reached by car, helicopter or ropeway all through the year,” says Mario Locatelli, holder of the Home in Wiler AG, which invests in the Lauchernalp Eden Mountain Estate.“And there are good connections from WilerLötschen to Bern, Geneva, Zurich, Milan,

In summer the region is famous with hikers and mountain bikers and those simply enjoying nature. The alp is known as one of the best Swiss hiking areas with the Lötschentaler mountain path passing directly through.The best months for hiking are from May to October. But as soon as the seasons turn from autumn to winter, snow begins to fall, covering the region with glistening white snow crystals. At a height of 2,000 metres, snow is guaranteed during the winter. “You can virtually step out of your front door and start skiing,” says Mario Locatelli. With 55 kilometres of slopes and a huge freeride area for skiers and snowboarders, the Lauchernalp is ideal for winter sport enthusiasts.

Snow-covered mountains and green meadows The chalets are well suited for“people who love Switzerland but want to avoid the overcrowded and noisy tourist destinations.

For them the Lauchernalp is the ideal alternative.” The landscape around the Lauchernalp Eden Mountain Estate invites you to enjoy untouched nature, a calm surrounding that has its charm in summer and winter – even if the landscape changes radically with the seasons.

www.lauchernalp-estate.com www.panterasothebysrealty.com www.pantera.de

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Adrenaline-boosting winter sports Unusual ways to enjoy icy temperatures Swimming in the cold water of the German North Sea may not be everyone’s definition of great fun, as many would possibly not dare to race downhill on a wooden sledge at maximum speed. While many people know Germany, Austria and Switzerland as great winter sport destinations, there are some traditions only a few will have heard of – some of them rather quirky.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

Hornschlitten races: Full speed down the slopes on a traditional wooden sledge Sledging is fun, but in some regions it comes with a twist. In the Alps and other mountain regions, sledges once had a more sinister use, The so called‘Hornschlitten’, a special kind of wooden sledge, was originally used by farmers during winter to

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transport hay stored at cabins high up in the mountains down into the valleys to feed the animals in the stables during winter. The name Hornschlitten derives from its form resembling the Alpine chamois’ horns.Today, with modern means of transportation, Hornschlitten have become obsolete. But the traditional sledges, once a

necessity, are now used for fun. In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a community in Upper Bavaria, every year on Epiphany a Hornschlitten race (www.hornschlitten.de) has taken place for more than 40 years.

Daredevils race down a steep slope on their wooden Hornschlitten with a speed of up to 100 kilometres per hour. Risky manoeuvres rarely result in a plunge and - if lucky - the racers land softly in the deep snow.

Only the most skilled riders make it to the finish line of the 1.2-kilometre long slope.

The Bavarian Hornschlitten championship is partly fun and partly earnest competition, and regulations are tough. Only Hornschlitten built in traditional Werdenfelser

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Discover Germany | Feature | Adrenaline-boosting winter sports

at the Mörlialp south of Lucerne. Here the race starts late, at 4pm, and lasts well into Descending on a sledge in nothing but underwear To those who wish to opt for something even more daring, further north is the place to go. In the Harz Mountains a private radio broadcaster initiated a nudist sledge race a few years ago. Participants wearing only their underwear raced down a hill in Braunlage during the ‘Nacktrodel’ world championship. In 2012 more than 25,000 spectators came – too many for the location, so in 2013 the organisers moved the race to better-suited Altenberg. In early 2015 the competition was held in a theme park near Leipzig and the details for 2016 are yet to be announced.

Swimming in an ice-cold sea on New Year’s Day If tobogganing naked is not enough to feel the cold, heading to the North Sea Coast on NewYear’s day offers more freezing excitement. Along the coastline eager swimmers jump into the ice-cold North Sea. From Büsum to Sylt, from Butjadingen to Norderney, swimmers face temperatures often sub-zero degrees. The tradition has its ori-

gins in the neighbouring Netherlands where the Nieuwjaarsduik was first celebrated in 1960 on Zandvoort beach. The idea spread over the whole coastline – the Netherlands and Germany. And while swimmers take the icy plunge, many spectators celebrate the event, cheering from the dry shore.

Beach sailing and driving kite buggies As soon as the temperatures plummet in autumn and the winds get strong enough at the North Sea Coast, beach sailors and kite buggy drivers are conquering the coastline. Beach sailors race a waggon at up to 130 kilometres per hour over the sand.

The sport has a long tradition in Europe dating back to the 1600s when sand yachts were used to transport goods.

A variation, the kite buggy, also uses wind power: but here a kite is let up high into the air, catching the wind and forcing the waggon and its driver into motion. First introduced in New Zealand in the 1980s, it was imported to Germany in the 1990s. Often enough a licence is needed for beach sailing or handling a kite buggy in Germany – a certificate that can be attained in a course at local sailing schools.

way are allowed to participate, they have to be fabricated mainly from wood, only the metal fittings, vats and the lower parts of the ‘Tatzen’ – the brakes – can be made from metal. Plastic or similar materials are strictly forbidden. There are even exact measurements that have to be kept.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is not the only place where spectators can enjoy the excitement of a high-speed sledge race. Other regions, such as Oberwiesenthal in the Erzgebirge, as well as in Brotterode in the Free State of Thuringia also has its own race. In Switzerland, a Hornschlitten race is held for the third time on 13 February 2016

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Main image & below: Tollwood Festival, Munich. © Sigi Mueller Below: View from the city hall on to the stalls of ChocolART. © Ulrich Metz (middle) European and international top-class manufacturers and local chocolatiers present their exquisite products at the ChocolART. © Benny Hechler (bottom)

Culture Calendar Go ahead and save the date, as there are plenty of great events scheduled for the weeks to come. From music festivals and exciting exhibitions to fantastic sport events and social highlights, Discover Germany’s Culture Calendar is your perfect guide to what not to miss in December.

TEXT: STEPHANIE BRINK HARCK

Tollwood Winter Festival 2015, Munich (24 November – 31 December)

chocolART Festival, Tübingen (1 – 6 December)

Once again, Munich’s Theresienwiese will be tranformed into a huge spectacle. The Tollwood Festival will host a variety of events from enchanting theatre and circus performances and concerts to comedians, plays and cabarets. A handicraft Christmas market, organic food, as well as a huge New Year’s Eve party and gala round off the programme. Under the motto ’clean is keen’, the festival makes waste and recycling a subject of discussion throughout its program. www.tollwood.de/english

Tübingen, a traditional university town in the southwest of Germany, will celebrate Germany’s largest chocolate festival in December.

Chocolate enthusiasts can taste chocolate delicacies from around the world at the Old Town’s open-air market, join a chocolate-making class, indulge in a chocolate massage or visit tasting sessions and chocolate art exhibitions. www.chocolart.de/en

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Formula Snow, Saalbach-Hinterglemm (3 – 6 December) The heart of Austria’s Hinterglemm will turn into one big, thrilling snow mobile race at the start of December. Side events, such as hot parties, annually attract many VIPs. For an unlikely case of no snow, 19,000 cubic metres of snow in the event’s depot will surely transform the surrounding mountains into a true winter wonderland. www.formulasnow.com Arosa Humour-Festival, Arosa (3 – 13 December) The funniest event in the Grison Alps is bringing national and international comedians and artists to the idyllic mountain scenery with its panoramic views of snow-covered mountains.

27 performances on four stages during 11 days are sure to enchant many visitors. www.humorfestival.ch St. Moritz City Race (4 – 5 December) The legendary city race in St. Moritz’s centre will be held for its eigth year. Adventurous skiing races in teams and in different categories through the city centre of St. Moritz are a popular sight. Furthermore, fantastic musicians on large stages and cosy get-togethers under the starry sky of the Engadin are what make this event so special. www.stmoritz-cityrace.ch Stollen Festival, Dresden (5 December) Dresden annually celebrates Germany’s Christmas fruitcake (’Stollen’) with a huge festival. A brightly coloured parade and the world’s biggest Christmas cake, which weighs 3.6 tonnes and measures four metres in length,

are only a few of the highlights that honour the delicacy that is filled with nuts, candied orange peel and spices. www.dresdnerstollenfest.de/en Fête de L’Escalade, Geneva (11 – 13 December) In 1602, the Duke of Savoy's troops met with resistance from the people of Geneva. Today the city continues to celebrate this vistory with large parades, traditions and bonfires. www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/escalade-ingeneva-ge.html FIS Cross Country World Cup, Davos (12 – 13 December) On the weekend of 12 and 13 December, the world’s best cross-country skiiers will compete once again in the beautiful landscape of Davos.

Kids events, an impressive opening ceremony and many parties frame the event and the races and guarantee a good atmosphere and

excitement all around. www.davosnordic.ch/en Santa Pauli, Hamburg (Until 23 December) One will not have a problem finding a Christmas market in Germany around this time of the year.

For a slightly different Christmas market experience, one should head to Hamburg’s Santa Pauli where conventional Christmas traditions meet the frivolous life of Hamburg’s red light district. Visitors can look forward to live music, hot angels in the strip tent and various market stands which offer everything that belongs to a true red light district Christmas market. www.spielbudenplatz.eu/erleben/events/santapauli-hamburgs-geilster-weihnachtsmarkt Above: Arosa Comedy Festival. © Arosa Humor-Festival Below: The traditional stollen procession leads through Dresden’s baroque old town. © Landeshauptstadt Dresden, Amt fuer Wirtschaftsfoerderung. Photo: Sylvio Dittrich (left) Stollen bakers portion the huge stollen for sale. © Landeshauptstadt Dresden, Amt fuer Wirtschaftsfoerderung. Photo: Sylvio Dittrich (right)

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Winterzauber, Norderney (27 December – 1 January) Scampi delicacies, smoked fish, international beer, Argentinian sausages with chili sauce, selected red or white wines, champagne, mulled wine or Austrian cheeses by the poshest names in the industry can be tried on a small, festive and exclusive culinary mile on the beautiful island of Norderney. www.norderney.de Vierschanzentournee, Germany and Austria (28 December – 6 January) Those who want to see the world’s best ski jumpers should head to the world-renowned Vierschanzentournee. It impresses with an extraordinary ambience on the stands which promises adrenaline rushes and goosebumps.

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Starting off in Oberstdorf, the Vierschanzentournee moves on to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, followed by Austria’s Innsbruck and Bischofshofen. www.vierschanzentournee.com New Year’s Eve Party, Berlin (31 December) Head to Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate for a truly exceptional New Year’s Eve Party this year. One of the biggest open-air parties in the world, visitors can celebrate all night long with music, dancing and, of course, spectacular fireworks until the early hours of New Year’s Day. www.berliner-silvester.de

Vienna State Opera, big-name bands and orchestras, as well as catchy rhythms will accentuate the event musically. Besides a spellbinding opening ceremony and a glamorous four-course gala dinner, visitors will be treated to an unforgettable midnight show to welcome the new year. www.hofburgsilvesterball.com/english

Above: Ski jumper at the 62nd Vierschanzentournee in Innsbruck. © Ingo Jensen, OK Vierschanzentournee (left) Ski jump arena in Oberstdorf; Vierschanzentournee. © Brigitte Waltl-Jensen, OK Vierschanzentournee (right top) Fans in Bischofshofen; Vierschanzentournee. © Neil Cook, OK Vierschanzentournee (right)

Hofburg New Year’s Eve Ball, Vienna (31 December) The glamorous ball in the heart of Vienna is sure to impress. Top-class performers, such as the

Below: New Year’s Eve at Brandenburg Gate. © SpreePIX Media (left) The countdown at Hofburg New Year’s Eve Ball. © Fayer (right) The opening waltz at the Hofburg New Year’s Eve Ball. © Tischler (right bottom)

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Discover Germany | Culture | Barbara Geier

Wurst, of course!

What do you know about typical German Christmas dishes? If you don’t know anything, then just think of a certain item of food that the whole world seems to equate with Germany (surely you know what that is) and you’re there: Wurst, of course! Wait a minute, you’ll be saying now, surely those Germans are not just eating sausages for Christmas? Well, let me enlighten you because the answer is yes and no.

TEXT: BARBARA GEIER

First of all, and in general, the Christmas menu in Germany can be quite diverse and has many regional variations. Also, specific family traditions need to be taken into account so that things are a bit less homogenous than the UK’s ‘all-out turkey’ approach. However, two dishes are more prevalent than others: Würstchen mit Kartoffelsalat (Frankfurter sausages with potato salad) and poultry, which would in the German case be either goose or duck.

The next step and further differentiation (don’t let anyone tell you that things are not complicated in Germany): it’s not necessarily one or the other, but what needs to be taken into account is that there’s more than one occasion in Germany where a special Christmas dish is needed. First, for Weihnachten, which is Christmas Eve here, but the ‘actual’ day in Germany with presents and the whole shebang. And then secondly, again for Christmas Day or erster Weihnachtsfeiertag, as we call it (longer word, surprise, surprise). Zweiter Weihnachtsfeiertag – Boxing Day – is usually spent on the sofa, paralysed and overfed.

Now, many people eat something simple and easy to prepare for dinner on the 24th, cue: Frankfurters and potato salad.The historical reason for this is that the 24th used to be a normal working day with farmers toiling away all day and hence there was little time left to eat before the Christmette

Christmas church service in the evening.

Plus, other than today where the weeks in the run-up to Christmas are characterised by all types of culinary indulgences such as Christmas cookies and the like, the Advent time used to be a strict fasting period that only ended on 25 December. The fact that a considerable number of Germans still stick with the quick and simple option for Weihnachten (Christmas Day) is probably why the 24th is now a hectic day full of last-minute present buying stress before the shops close and other preparations, not least for the large Christmas lunch on the 25th when the relatives are invited and things get really interesting.

According to surveys, Frankfurters with potato salad is the top dish for Christmas (i.e. the 24th) with 36 per cent of us putting that on the table, followed by goose or duck with 27 per cent and Raclette with 14 per cent. On Christmas Day, things are reversed with 47 per cent preparing the proper festive and opulent goose or duck feast, with the proverbial Weihnachtsgans (Christmas goose) probably being the most popular option.The rest opt for some pork and beef dish. While this whole culinary set-up might differ quite a bit from what’s happening in the UK, the two following things should sound familiar: Firstly, cooking at Christmas is considered to be one of the biggest stress factors alongside buying

presents, decorating the tree and having to put up with relatives and, secondly, it’s still the ladies who in the majority of cases take over the lion’s share of the work in the kitchen. So, whatever you do this Christmas, don’t get stressed out about food and having to cook. Just do it like my mother who introduced the specific family tradition of booking us in for a nice meal at a good restaurant on Christmas Day. Most enjoyable and much more relaxed then standing in the kitchen – or in a nutshell, merry Christmas!

Barbara Geier is a London-based freelance writer, translator and communications consultant. She is also the face behind ww.germanyiswunderbar.com, a German travel and tourism guide and blog that was set up together with UK travel writer Andrew Eames in 2010.

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