Discover Germany I Issue 6 | August 2013

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Issue 5 | July 2013

PLUS DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE SPECIAL EDITION

Nico Rosberg F1 Silver Arrow Pilot

BEAUTIFUL CASTLES OF SWITZERLAND BEST OF VIENNA CITY SPECIAL HANNOVER

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Discover Germany | Contents

Contents AUGUST 2013

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Prototyp Museum, Hamburg. Photo: Hagen Stier Architektur Fotografie.

Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Center. Photo: Mrs Antje Hanebeck

COVER FEATURE 6

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Nico Rosberg Meet Nico Rosberg, the young Formula 1 driver and Mercedes Benz Silver Arrow pilot.The son of racing icon Keke Rosberg opens up about life in Monte Carlo.

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WINE FEATURE 30

Vinous Vienna Wine expert Anne Krebiehl takes a closer look at the Austrian wine makers in and aroundVienna.

SPECIAL THEMES 12

Architecture & Design Guide Germany Read why Germany is and will be the world’s leading exporter of design and meet the creative heads behind some of the most famous architects and designers.

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72 © Ebenalp

Within the ancient walls of the majestic castles and fortresses, history-savvy visitors find plenty of inspiration. And don’t be scared of Fauchi the castle dragon or other little monsters.

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Within Switzerland’s stunning Tessin region lies a hospitality highlight of a different kind.The Albergo Gardenia, a former convent, is a haven of tranquillity near Lake Lugano.

REGULARS & COLUMNS

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The elegant Fährhaus on the German island of Sylt boasts stunning views over the North Sea and a truly lavish beach environment.

Dedicated to Design 72

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Fashion Finds

Restaurant of the Month

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If you are intrigued by our Vienna theme don’t miss out on staying at the grand Hotel am Konzerthaus in the city centre while visiting this wonderful town.

Business Get expert advise on buying art, discover a business hotel fit for an empress and read all about an outstanding boarding school.

Food from 1001 nights is served in Hamburg’s Mazza restaurant where refined Syrian cuisine awaits gourmets.

Hotels of the Month

Attraction of the Month The Ebenalp in Switzerland is famous for hiking, bears and alpenhorns. Rich in history and unspoilt nature this region has a lot to offer.

Meet Frida Weyer and her stunning creations.

The theme is ocean blue.

Architecture Guide Austria Austrian architecture has a lot to offer as the top studios with their stunning creations presented in this magazine will prove.

Beautiful Castles of Switzerland

Little helpers and functional objects for the summer season.

Welcome to Vienna Discover Germany introduces you to the best places in and around town and presents you with a selection of the finest manufacturers of local goods with an international reputation.

City Special Hannover The city in northern Germany is more than an international trade fair hub. Cultural highlights are plentiful in this town and visitors are most welcome to follow the red thread leading through town.

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Culture Our witty columnist Barbara Geier explains the Strandkorb lifestyle

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Dear Reader,

Discover Germany

Sales & Key Account Managers

Issue 6, August 2013

Lena Meyer

Published 15.08.2013 ISSN 2051-7718

Teresa Verwanger Ariam Bereket Caroline Nindl

Published by Scan Magazine Ltd. Design & Print Liquid Graphic Ltd. Executive Editor

Advertising info@discovergermany.org.uk Discover Germany is published by: Scan Magazine Ltd. 4 Baden Place Crosby Row London SE1 1YW

Thomas Winther Creative Director Mads E. Petersen

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

Editor Tina Awtani

For further information, please visit www.discovergermany.com

Art Director Svetlana Slizova Copy-Editor Mark Rogers Contributors Lydia Evers Barbara Geier Emelie Krugly Hill Jessica Holzhausen Julika Hüther Gregor Kleinknecht Anne Krebiehl Cordelia Makartsev Franziska Nössig Jessica Pommer Julien Rath Jessica Ridder 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

4 | Issue 6 | August 2013

Welcome to the August issue of Discover Germany. First of all we would like to congratulate the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their son George Alexander Louis. Taking a closer look at British Royalty leads us to Germany, as from 1714 (King George I) to 1901 (QueenVictoria) the Hanoverians represented the British Monarchy, followed by the house of SaxeCoburg-Gotha, which later became the house of Windsor.

It is the perfect timing for presenting you with a Hannover City Special, a town that still holds some truly majestic treasures such as the splendid Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen or the New Town Hall, which in fact looks far from contemporary.

Noble it remains with our Beautiful Castles of Switzerland theme, where we explore some of the most charismatic and interesting historic castles and fortresses which have been carefully preserved for centuries. The beautiful castles of Switzerland are a great holiday destination of a different kind, offering cultural highlights and plenty of entertainment for youngsters and grown-ups.

From Switzerland we move to Austria. The wonderful city ofVienna offers a very distinctive ambience featuring a glorious past and an exciting present. Find out which are the most authenticViennese places to visit in and around town and meet the manufacturers of fine local products, which are famous far beyond the Austrian borders.

Striking and contemporary creations by some of the finest Austrian architects are featured in our Architecture Guide Austria. See for yourself and be prepared to be wowed by the superb designs made in Austria which have turned into landmark buildings all over the globe.

Creative stays the motto within our German design and architecture section. As Andrej Kupetz, Managing Director of the German Design Council, confirms “Germany is and will remain for the foreseeable future the world’s leading exporter of design.”See for yourself what the new generation is capable of.

This month’s cover is graced by one of the fastest men in the world. Mercedes Silver Arrow pilot Nico Rosberg just won the Monaco and the British Grand Prix. He talks about life on the Côte d'Azur and his British team mate Lewis Hamilton.

You will find some of the finest restaurants, hotels and attractions in Austria, Germany and Switzerland in this issue and if you should consider buying some fine art, take a look at our business section, where legal expert Gregor Kleinknecht shares his expertise in this field.

Enjoy the magazine!

Tina Awtani Editor

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Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Nico Rosberg

Nico Rosberg Formula 1 Superstar TEXT: OLIVER BROWN (THE DAILY TELEGRAPH) |THE INTERVIEW PEOPLE | PHOTOS: DAIMLER / COVER PHOTO: MERCEDES BENZ

Mercedes Silver Arrow pilot Nico Rosberg talks about life in Monte Carlo, long–time confrère Lewis Hamilton and staying on the learning curve.

Suave, sun–bleached and the scion of a celebrated Formula 1 dynasty, German Nico Rosberg is Monaco's poster child. The Monaco and British Grand Prix 2013 winner remembers his upbringing in the small state. "I'm still in the same apartment block I grew up in," he says, a touch insouciantly.

"My mother used to drive me through the tunnel here on my way to school."

Life in Monte Carlo Rosberg is this season's revelation: the young German has discovered a raw pace at the Silver Arrows. Such is the fiendishness of overtaking on this fabled layout that he has become a fair– priced favourite to seal his maiden triumph on the streets where he would typically be enjoying a quiet café au lait.

"A lot of people judge Monaco, but you really can't have an in-

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Jests aside, Rosberg recognises that perceptions of a hierarchy at Mercedes remain, given how he was told to hold position behind Hamilton recently despite protesting, "Let me past, I'm so much faster."

formed opinion until you have lived here," Rosberg says. "There is this preconception of endless glamour but I also know a very normal side, of going to the beach and buying a pizza that is no more over–priced than anywhere else. I feel privileged to live in Monte Carlo, because it can be very expensive, but I always have my friends and family to call on."

Formula 1 University Chief among his confidants is father Keke, the 1982 world champion who can often be found in the environs of Monaco harbour with a supply of Gauloises close to hand. Instrumental in steering a gifted prodigal into the junior formulas, Keke is still identified by Nico as his most formative influence. "He helped me when I most needed it," Rosberg Jnr admits. "His most important contribution was letting me go. He allowed me, as his son, to find my own way and make my own mistakes.

That's the most difficult thing to do as a parent, to let go."

The wistfulness in the 27–year old's voice can be traced to a time when a photogenic image bred criticisms that his style outweighed his substance. Rosberg is the first to concede that he has matured, even mellowed, as a consequence of his rise into the elite of his sport. "I have changed, hugely so. Formula 1 is the best university in the world. I have always had a desire and discipline to achieve, but I have deve-

8 | Issue 6 | August 2013

loped so much as a person by learning to work with people, understanding them."

He argues, rather tensely and after a long pause: "That was a unique situation – a very unexpected one, which we hadn't planned for. If you're implying that there is a No 1 and No 2 driver within the team, that is absolutely not the case. Nobody wants team orders, but there is more to it.

We are representing Mercedes on the track, massive amounts of money are involved, plus hundreds of people back at the factory.

Sometimes you have to limit the risk to bring the cars home."

Let me past, I'm so much faster Ever since Lewis Hamilton, Rosberg's long– time confrère from their karting days, joined Mercedes on a £60 million three– year contract, suspicions have persisted that their relationship would show signs of strain. But Rosberg is near–contemptuous of the suggestion that he might feel pressure from his new team–mate. "I had Michael Schumacher, a seven–time world champion, alongside me for three years," he replies. "Not much has changed in that respect." The dynamic is complicated by the fact that he and Hamilton even share the same high–rise block of flats, just off the principality's Avenue Princesse Grace. "It's useful for Lewis," Rosberg jokes. "He can pop down whenever he realises he has no food in the fridge."

The secret is all in the hand–eye co–ordination Rosberg nearly did not make it to the uplands of F1. A love for tennis burgeoned as a child and, he recalls, "a choice had to be made" between the two. "It's a similar challenge, believe it or not, controlling a tennis racket and an F1 car – the secret is all in the hand–eye co–ordination."

His surge of success this year, in qualifying if not yet in race consistency, is one Rosberg seeks to sustain. "I want to keep learning, to stay open–minded," he says. "I'm very content where I am, racing for the Silver Arrows. You're aware of the history behind you very powerfully, especially as a German. I feel very much at home."

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Discover Germany | Design | Dedicated to Design

Dedicated to Design...

The German design scene is more vibrant than ever, with an array of new inventions and beautiful objects now available in stores. Check out these award winning and inspiring design pieces that we have fallen in love with this month.

1

BY TINA AWTANI

2

A great range of bathroom products is cleverly designed to “encourage people to save water, right there, where water is used.” Pretty to look at and great for the environment too.

We love it! £8.50. www.stop-the-water-while-using-me.com

3

Winner of the iF product design award 2013, the Tangomat GMT Plus is a multi-award winning creation made by Nomos Glashütte watch making manufactory. It has also been named Watch of the Year, Germany. From £2,800. www.nomos-glashuette.com

The BMW 2013 AirFlow 2 helmet just scooped the German design award 2012. Also available in cosmic blue metallic matt and fluorescent yellow. From £335. www.bmw.com

This coated linen passport cover comes in handy when travelling. Another clever design by German Gisela Graham. £7. www.giselagraham.co.uk Distressed wood beach signs are a great way to preserve the holiday feeling in your own home. Made by Gisela Graham and bursting with her typical characteristic charm, tastefulness and originality. £9.95. www.giselagraham.co.uk

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Fashion Finds August is beach season and anything relating to crystal clear waters, white powder beaches and oriental destinations will ensure that the holiday feeling remains even when back home.

Glitzy accessories in ocean inspired designs or gemstone studded sandals add a touch of summer sparkle to any outfit.

BY TINA AWTANI

A dream in ocean blue is this gown made of printed silk chiffon. Fully silk lined and featuring a zipper at the back this creation leaves no room for desire. ÂŁ745. www.fridaweyer.com

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Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds

Inspired by the deep blue sea and fascinating corals, Basler designed a whole range of beautiful items for their summer 2013 collection including this gorgeous bag and the matching pencil skirt. Team with a crisp white shirt and pumps to create an office outfit or wear with a casual T-Shirt and flip flops for a relaxed weekend style. Bag £60. Skirt £120. www.basler-fashion.de

The accessory empire Bijou Brigitte celebrates its 50th anniversary this year with ever more glitzy creations.

To complete the seaside look, choose from the sparkling range including a shiny starfish bracelet, an oversized octopus necklace or a cute little seahorse brooch. From £9.95. www.bijou-brigitte.com

Sandals are great for taking abroad as they do not require much space in a suitcase.

Light and airy, they are the perfect summer footwear. We love this gemstone studded Nigra model by Tamaris. £43. www.tamaris.de

Gorgeous summer dress by Berlin based designer Frida Weyer. Her creations are defined by “shimmering elegance and feminine line that extends from the clearly sensual to the mysteriously seductive.” Fully lined printed silk chiffon dress. £310. www.fridaweyer.com

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design Guide Germany Left: Prototyp Museum, Hamburg.

Photo: Hagen Stier Architektur Fotografie.

Read more on page 19.

Special Theme

Architecture & Design Guide Germany

German design A real success story TEXT: ANDREJ KUPETZ, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GERMAN DESIGN COUNCIL

The good news first: Germany is and will remain for the foreseeable future the world’s leading exporter of design – no other nation has as much design expertise in so many products. Germany has a long history of design culture and German goods are in demand worldwide thanks to their appearance, which gives unique visual form to properties such as utility value and quality craftsmanship. Today Germany is the world’s largest producer of design oriented goods – it champions design in virtually all sectors in order to ensure international success.

ally is a success story. This is not least a result of the German Design Council’s longstanding work.The German Design Council is one of the world’s leading centres of communication and knows how transfer in the field of design.

According to a study

by Markenverband, the German Design Council and Scholz & Friends, German businesses are fully aware that design not only improves their company’s total return, but precisely in new markets is also a decisive competition factor.

And yet, despite the continued success of German design, despite the title of world’s leading design exporter, many Germans would not think of design first when asked what Germany stands for. Therefore, it is becoming the central communication task of industry, designers and their associations to convey the value of our product culture to consumers. In addition, we need design to be taught in nurseries and schools. We need life-long further education by means of exemplary exhibitions and widely publicized design awards. This way, we will honour our great heritage while at the same time writing the next chapters in the success story of German design.

Andrej Kupetz Managing Director German Design Council

So, one can say that German design re-

Since its foundation in 1953 by German industry, the German Design Council has worked to promote design as a specific factor driving business and fostering an understanding of its cultural significance among the general public – spanning six decades of design culture.

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design Guide Germany

in–design architects and interior architects

Unconventional and individual craftsmanship Frankfurt-based in_design architecture team offer highly personal and individual architecture, interior architecture and project management solutions for German as well as international clients, as the office is run by English native speakers.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: IN_DESIGN ARCHITECTS

Christine Weinmann and architect Tim Driedger set up their own venture in January 2000. While qualified interior architect and carpenter Weinmann is responsible for the interior design aspects, Driedger adds the architectural expertise to projects. A winning formula, as the number of returning customers confirms. “The clients demanded more than 'just converting' existing buildings – and asked for extensions, reconstructions and new developments. As we had worked together during studying and in other offices, we didn't think twice if we'd take the challenge together. Now the office has steadily grown to become a pleasant, international and interdisciplinary team of building experts, which is led by both of us,”Driedger explains.

experience in project management in the areas of office, infrastructure or residential buildings. No matter if dealing with newly built projects, refurbishments, conversions or alterations of existing and even historic buildings, the in_design team offers unconventional and individual solutions. in_design’s classic service portfolio is combined with keeping life-cycle costs, environmental friendliness and sustainability

The team at work Seamless teamwork from the first sketches to site completion is based on years of

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Christine Weinmann and architect Tim Driedger

Above: Single-family home in Bad Vilbel.

Photos: Alexandra Lechner

in mind, but adds special value for its customers as Driedger points out:“We simultaneously combine the skills of architecture and interior design truly at eye level – which is something that only a few offices are doing. This results in seamless and individual design, e.g. for any commercial customer who needs a representational outer appearance as well as an efficient meeting area inside. But this is also very much appreciated by private customers who value both aspects of a building much more than is usually considered.”

Frankfurt is a very international city and it does come in handy for English speaking clients that in_design’s creative heads are both bi-lingual.“We can handle projects in

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German as well as English, both as native speakers. Keeping in mind how frustrating German building regulations and site conventions can be for anyone new to the business – it makes life a bit easier when you can at least rely on minimum 'friction losses' in communication.”

Historic premises “In one large extension to a 19th century building in Frankfurt we had to intensely deal with the 'historic building preservation', highest fire protection requirements, very demanding neighbours, minimal room for logistics, green building wishes, extraordinary user ideas and many more issues.

It ended up in us designing a prefabricated timber construction that was put up in three days, which is now 'flooded' with daylight and valuable materials, uses a fraction of a newly built's energy and has proved to be instantly profitable. And all this while the rest of the building stayed in function without one day of interruption.

During planning there were numerous moments when it seemed that we would never see it get real, though.”

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the building's shape layout – optimized for views in and out, and for a continuous integration of nature rather than a sharp 'separation' – to the interior the heart of which consists of a cubic-centimetre-optimized kitchen/ storage/ stair/ bookshelf/ balustrade insertion, it all meets the client's needs as well as our own principles quite clearly,” Driedger recalls.

Above: Extension to a 19th century building in Frankfurt.

Photos: Alexandra Lechner Below: Three-generation-home in Mühlheim.

Photos: Thomas Drexel

Another successful project completed by in_design is the three-generation-home in the city of Mühlheim, which has been chosen by the German architecture museum (DAM) to be showcased in an exhibition.

“In this project you can nicely see the benefits of our synergetic architecture and interior design approach. The house is located right at a nature-protection area, to which all rooms have a view. Visible concrete, a client's wish, is combined with existing brick walls and dark wood – inside and outside – and the rooms are optimized for 'all ages use'. A remarkable detail is that the annexe's sculpture is defined by three cubes, which can be seen symbolically as the three generations – even though this shape resulted from objective reasons.”

Residential Projects in_design is proud to have completed numerous striking creations when it comes to single family houses as the example of the single-family home in Bad Vilbel shows.

The result was a perfectly well-functioning patio house, which was chosen by the architect's chamber (AKH) to be on display at this year's nationwide 'architecture day' [Tag der Architektur]. “When we showed our work to more than a hundred interested visitors it indeed gave us some pride. From

And Tim Driedger can’t wait to get his hands on the next challenge: “Another complex project on our drawing boards right now is an airport fire brigade that will be extended and completely remodelled while in use 24 hours a day. Here we found that a steel construction will do the job best – I'm actually looking forward to the construction works starting.” www.indesign-architekten.de

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Gresser Architects Wiesbaden

Where buildings are made to measure The architect's office Gresser is an independent planning and advisory office with a proven track record in the realisation of new buildings as well as the modernisation or renovation of existing structures. Mr Gresser and his team have successfully established a strong portfolio including living and office space, event locations and even religious buildings far beyond the city borders and stretching as far as Kerala in India.

Left: Three villas in Wiesbaden. Photo: Horst Goebel Right: Two villas in the Warmer Damm district, Wiesbaden.

Photo: Gresser Architects

TEXT: TINA AWTANI

Hans-Peter Gresser founded the office in 1976, he has served as Chairman of the Alliance of German Architects Wiesbaden for many years, he has been Chairman of the Advisory Board for Town Planning, Architecture and Construction Culture of the Hessian capital of Wiesbaden since 1999, and the number of industry awards he has received for his achievements is most impressive – including the Hessian State Award for Architecture for his works at the historic Platte hunting lodge as well as the coveted Schinkel Award for a project in Neuruppin near Berlin. Mr Gresser is passionate about every single one of his creations and his work seems somehow quite similar to what the world famous London Savile Row tailors do. “The multifaceted creativity, driven by the ambition to find an appropriate solution for the respective

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project and the respective place, appropriate in the sense of taking measurements, thus to create and establish a benchmark, like creating a tailor made suit," Mr Gresser describes what inspires him.

Modern living spaces Take a stroll through Wiesbaden and you will instantly recognise one or more of the

Hans-Peter Gresser

numerous Gresser designs scattered around the most prestigious locations in town, such as the three newly built villas near Neroberg or two new villas in the fine Warmer Damm district. These especially turned out to be quite a challenging project as the brief required creating two new buildings on a 2,500 square metre plot, which were flanked by historic villas from the 19th century on both sides. In each case Gresser architects completed the project beyond expectations. “In order to build modern villas today, requires a sensitive inclusion without imitation; that is how leeway is created. The villas are defined by the meticulous balancing of proportions, closed and open areas. The size of the cubes, as well as their order, interprets the surrounding cultivation, while the creation remains independent: in the proper sense of

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design Guide Germany Left & below: Hunting lodge Platte.

Photo: Horst Goebel

history alive we have embedded a pattern of our time in the existing context,” Mr Gresser explains.

History brought alive Another remarkable Gresser project was the rejuvenation of the Platte hunting lodge, which was originally commissioned by the Duke of Nassau 175 years ago and, sadly, destroyed in 1945. The remains of the castle were dug out and turned into a memorial with the help of Mr Gresser and his team. A glass roof was constructed that “mirrored the old that wasn’t there any more and turned it upside down.”The ruins were not only given a new lease of life but also a fresh contemporary value. Today the Platte hunting lodge serves as a sophisticated event location above the town of Wiesbaden on the Taunus mountain range and offers room for up to 600 guests.

Places for prayers and worship The versatile skills of Gresser architects are mirrored in the Chapel On The Field [Feldkapelle]. Again the project brief wasn’t easy.

The creation of an oasis of peace was required, where one could dwell, meditate, contemplate and pray. Furthermore the construction needed to be recognised as a Christian one. “The site is designed like a hortus conclusus, which is secluded by a wall and thus creates an inner space. A small square invites visitors to take a seat,

rest and compose themselves. From that square, one strides underneath the cross along an ascending, rough and bumpy path. At the end of the path, just like theVia Dolorosa, with a 90 degree turn one reaches the room of prayer, which points eastwards,”Mr Gresser reflects. And his talents are not limited to Christian prayers.

Nestled on the private Vaamika Island (which is available for rental) in the Vembanad Lake south of Kochin in Indian Ker-

ala, Gresser architects created the South Indian Art Museum. A beautiful collection of South Indian sculptures, coins and antiques is displayed inside.“The basic idea of the design of the museum complex was based on a Mandala, which symbolises the universe and the pure enlightened spirit. In the creation the second half of the Mandala blends in perfectly with the nearby lagoon,” Mr Gresser enthuses about the tailor-made project and he concludes:“We feel, just like the English architects Alison and Peter Smithson, as a member of the family of architects, who create shapes by thinking about the making.” www.gresser-architects.com

Left: Chapel in the field. Photos: Alexandra Repp Below: Museum Kerala, India. Photo: Gresser Architects

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Nickl & Partner create space to work, live & recover

Healing supported by architecture Nickl & Partner Architects is the leading German firm when it comes to building medical facilities, with an extensive range including research facilities, universities, offices and residential housing. Their concept of success focuses on sustainable and innovative designs combined with functionality tailored to specific needs.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: NICKL & PARTNER ARCHITECTS

The extensive knowledge and specialised skill regarding technique and building materials, merged with a forward-thinking approach, has proved to be successful since Professor Hans Nickl founded the Munichbased company in 1979. Today Nickl & Partner architects are the leading German company in the field of medical facilities, hospitals and scientific institutes with clients across the globe.“Aside from a building’s functionality our architects want to develop visions and make the idea behind a building accessible,” CEO Gerhard Eckl explains: “All concepts are tailored to the specific needs of people who work, live and recover there.”This is where Healing Architecture plays a major role. The concept raises the question of how architecture can support the patient’s recovery and become an active part of the modern hospital experience. Eckl adds: “This is also the research subject of our chairman of the board, Professor Christine Nickl-Weller’s academic chair at the Technical University Berlin. Interdisciplinary knowledge is embedded in our development of innovative

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architectural solutions and the company’s experience also goes back into education.”

At Nickl & Partner sustainability is a significant factor from a social and economic perspective. The architects aim at creating modern buildings, fulfilling the requirements of energy efficiency and economic viability.To achieve this, excellent materials, simple building structures and high flexibility of the building’s use are essential. A major milestone is the University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf. Finished in 2009, it is the most modern hospital in Europe today.

Eckl says:“Experienced specialist teams for quality management, tenders, climate design, façade planning and development of building components work across projects.

That way they can contribute their specialist knowledge to the development of our architectural concepts.”

One of the current projects is the Campus Derendorf (University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf), which is not only promoting a functioning structure but will become an

Main image, left: Campus Derendorf (University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf) Right top: University Hospital in Hamburg-Eppendorf Middle: Children's heart center in Innsbruck The Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems ENAS in Chemnitz Bottom: GALILEO Garching

integrated place the students, teachers and the community can identify with. Another shining example of how Nickl & Partner always consider the whole picture. Hence it is no surprise that many awards (also from the Association of German Architects) keep coming in and put Nickl & Partner’s forward-thinking ability and their continued quality into the spotlight it deserves. www.nickl-partner.com

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design Guide Germany

Clear solutions for complicated challenges

DFZ Architects tackle a wide array of architectural tasks DFZ Architects from Hamburg have been renovating old buildings and constructing new houses for over 20 years. The team of around 20 architects works on a wide variety of projects.

TEXT: JESSICA POMMER

If you have a look at the list of projects of the Hamburg-based architects of DFZ, you can see that their work comprises a great variety of services. The founders Peter Dinse, Isabell Feest and Johann Zurl can look back on a long history of completed or renovated buildings, successful pitches and prize nominations. The office is managed today by Peter Dinse, Johann Zurl, Nicolas Britsch and Stephen Kausch. Among their clients are public institutions such as schools and museums, but also private customers in need of offices, industry sites or residential buildings.“To us the quality and uniqueness of design are of the highest importance when we are working on a project. We see a house as a continuous interaction of body, space and light in the context of the location. The smallest detail has to be considered,”explains DFZ architect and junior partner Stephen Kausch.

“The basis of our success is a close exchange with our customers, from the planning at the beginning to the submission at the end.”Although DFZ is located in Ham-

burg they also take on assignments from regional and international clients.

The reconstruction of historic buildings requires special care. It is the architects´ aim to preserve the old substance as far as possible.

This effort can be exemplified by a project realized by DFZ Architects in 2008. The car museum“Prototyp”in the harbour of Hamburg, the Hafen City, used to be a factory building.The transformation into a modern museum asked for great sensitivity as the building is heritage-protected. First of all the steel base frame in the building´s interior had to be exposed. The restoration of the brickwork front and of the vaulted cellar was a further step in the process. New elements were diligently added. Nowadays you can find in the museum a bistro, offices and an atelier next to the museum exposition. The aim to preserve the charm of the building and to integrate modern premises has been achieved.

Above: Prototyp Museum, Hamburg. Photo: Hagen Stier, Architektur+Fotografie Below: Museum für konkrete Kunst und Design, Ingolstadt.

Competition. Visualisation DFZ architects Bauhaus Bremen. Photo: Hagen Stier, Architektur+Fotografie

www. dfz-architekten.de

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design Guide Germany

Peace Palace Library and Academy. © Peter de Ruig

German-British Wilford Schupp Architects

A unique international partnership TEXT: JESSICA RIDDER

“We’re not specialized in any particular building typology, we have expertise in all of them. What we prefer are complex constructional questions, involving high requirements regarding architecture of course, but also hygiene, acoustics, security or climate,” says Manuel Schupp, one of the two partners of Wilford Schupp Architekten GmbH (Wilford Schupp Architects).

Their goal is to provide a superior quality of work within the given budgets and time frames and they make a point of engaging with complex building tasks and challenging construction requirements rather than mainstream architecture, knowing that their architecture might either evoke admiration or the opposite, but for sure viewers don’t leave indifferent. With private and public authorities throughout the world as

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clients, the international partnership of the two directors of Wilford Schupp Architekten, Manuel Schupp and Michael Wilford, is unique in the market. “We are the only architectural practice with a German and an Englishman as partners; besides we are uniting two generations,” Schupp explains.

Manuel Schupp & Michael Wilford.

Photo: Wilford Schupp Architects

Michael Wilford, recognised as a Commander of the British Empire for his contribution to architecture, originally joined the office of James Stirling up until his death in 1992, where he became Partner in 1971. Between 1993 and 2001, Wilford practised in London under the name Michael Wilford and Partners. Schupp, who was honored with the Stone Lion at the Venice Biennale in 1985, joined James Stirling’s London practice in the following year. He is a member of the Stuttgart Urban Development Board, and founded the German subsidiary of British Architects James Stirling, Michael Wilford Associates in the Swabian city in 1990.

In 2001, Wilford Schupp Architekten GmbH was established. During the 25-year partnership of the 2 architects, the office has grown consistently. They direct the of-

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fice together with Stephan Gerstner as a Managing Partner. Gerstner is charged with the economic organization of the office and project procurement and also joined the office in 1990. One of the first projects he participated in was the State Music Academy in Stuttgart.Having evolved from the office of the late Sir James Stirling, the work methods of this important British architect still influence their architecture today.Their designs are “based on the integration of modern architecture, tradition, and the relationship between history and abstraction of modern design.” They believe that every piece of architecture conveys a message and that in modern society architecture functions as a uniquely recognizable asset for businesses.

One of their principles is to be respectful of the ecological and cultural aspects of the region where the project is located and take them into account, together with any specific needs the clients may have, during the development process of the work. “We accompany our building owners internationally and when working abroad we don’t carry out any copycat-architecture, but take the local conditions into consideration within the design,” Schupp says. “We work with a base of loyal clients, who appreciate the fact that we cooperate closely with them while we develop the projects and moderate the international planning processes and choose local cooperation partners. It’s a benefit for us that our employees originate from a variety of countries and all of them speak the necessary English,” he adds.

The long list of previous projects and reputable clients of Wilford Schupp Architek-

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ten GmbH includes the State University for Music and Performing Arts, the Museum of History in Stuttgart, the Peace Palace Library and Academy and Visitor Center in The Hague in the Netherlands, the new British Embassy in Berlin and in Tbilisi in Georgia. They act as architectural experts in the industrial, office, public and government, education, cultural and residential housing sector and they have also won many well known competitions including the cultural mile in Stuttgart, the Sidney Harbour in Australia and the Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth in the United Kingdom.

One of the most important projects for the architects so far is a project the firm is currently working on in Malaysia:“For the locations of the Medical firm B. Braun Melsungen in Penang in Malaysia, we have designed the master plans at a cost of around 200 million Euros. The project is still in full swing and we are currently working on various administration and production buildings that will further improve the work environment for the company’s employees,”Schupp describes.

Top left: Visitor Centre. © Peter de Ruig Top right: British Embassy, Tbilisi. © Dennis Gilbert British Embassy, Berlin. © Peter Cook Below: Admin Building, Penang, Malaysia.

Production Building, Penang, Malaysia.

Photos: Wilford Schupp Architects

And there also is a new architectural challenge on the horizon: “Currently we are busy with the construction of the Innovation Factory of the company Aesculap, a manufacturer of surgical instruments.

Again, besides the merely aesthetic level, it is important to meet high demands regarding clean rooms, efficient energy use and efficient use of space. We achieve this, for example, by stacking the production levels,”explains the director. www.wilfordschupp.de

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A renovated three-storey building from the year 1904 in the Großbeerenstraße.

On the rooftops of Berlin The architectural office Scholz-Sielecki renovates old buildings Ms Gabriele Scholz-Sielecki and her small team of architects specializes in renovating turn-of-the-century buildings.

TEXT: JESSICA POMMER | PHOTOS: ARCHITEKTURBÜRO SCHOLZ-SIELECKI

Berlin is a trendy city whose dynamics are also reflected in its real estate market. Rents are rising continuously and increasing demand for property is contrasted by limited space. This gap is counterbalanced by the transformation of already existing buildings into condominiums. When you stroll through Germany´s capital you can observe many beautiful buildings that date from the turn of the century and are privately owned. The owners of the turn-of-thecentury buildings try to preserve their assets for future generations by doing restoration work on them.

This is where Ms Gabriele Scholz-Sielecki appears on the scene. She opened her architectural office in 1989 and has since then saved many old buildings in the Berlin-Brandenburg-Potsdam area from decay. For example, she completed a project in Potsdam, where a three-storey building from the year

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1904 was renovated.“When renovating old buildings the first thing we do is to overhaul all parts where energy is emitted such as the roof, windows, doors and the heating system,”explains Ms Scholz-Sielecki.“Apart from the areas which could be preserved, the old parts such as the electric installations, the sewage system and the floor were completely restored. We renovated the roof but we conserved the basic form. The outer façade with its mouldings was elaborately

Dipl-Ing. Gabriele Scholz-Sielecki

renewed. In order to put focus on the building´s edge we furnished it with a turret,”explicates Ms Scholz-Sielecki. Now the building in the Großbeerenstraße (Großbeeren Street) shines in new splendour.

Yet, state promotions for house renovations were cancelled in 2002. Thus a complete house renovation has become very expensive for the house owners, which has resulted in a decreased demand. Fortunately, Gabriele Scholz-Sielecki also takes on herself the challenge of constructing new houses. One of her most extraordinary projects was the construction of a rotunda house on the island of Java. As Ms ScholzSielecki is constantly busy with her business in Berlin she never managed to visit the building on site. But with the construction of new buildings such as this she can maintain her level of orders. www.scholz-sielecki.de

Heinrich-Seidel-Strasse Berlin Steglitz

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Local, regional, international The PLAN FORWARD architects and engineers The PLAN FORWARD GmbH is a company belonging to the WOLFF GRUPPE Holding GmbH, which is based in the German cities of Stuttgart and Essen. It is an association of committed, experienced architects, planners and engineers with different areas of expertise.

TEXT: JULIKA HÜTHER

These professionals are on hand with help and advice for private and public building contractors every step of the way: from project analysis and initial architects' plans to the realization of the project.The project portfolio comprises all kinds of buildings – not only new builds, but also conversions, modernisations and redevelopments. It includes administrative buildings, museums and theatres, residential construction, hotel buildings, schools, hospitals and care homes as well as sports complexes or stadiums. Its comprehensive service portfolio is focused on developing integral and individual complete solutions. The executive architects and managing partners Dieter

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Accepting challenges

lenge to us. We just had to accept it,”says Dieter Deichsel afterwards.“Because these are the kinds of projects that push us forward.” And forward means: expanding the treasure trove of experience, getting com-

This summer, the construction of the Stadion Essen, a new build, has recently been completed. The brand new sports stadium in the heart of the Ruhr, an area in Germany that is famous for its world class football clubs, is based on a multi-stage plan designed by PLAN FORWARD's architects and engineers. The basic model is an event and sports site that is designed for 20,000 people. “Constructing a new stadium for the city of Essen was an architectural chal-

Dieter Deichsel and Michael Jockers

Deichsel and Michael Jockers manage the two offices and the respective projects on site.

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design Guide Germany

Main image: Headquarter E.ON Global Commodities SE, Essen, Germany. ® E.ON Global Commodities SE. Photo: Hans Blossey From top to bottom: Museum Folkwang Essen, Essen, Germany. ® PLAN FORWARD GmbH Stadion Essen, Essen, Germany. ® PLAN FORWARD GmbH University of Applied Science, Osnabrück, Germany. ® Christian Richters, Berlin Central, Restaurant - Bar - Lounge, Essen, Germany. ® PLAN FORWARD GmbH

Blending history and future The name might also stand for implementation with a high level of professionalism and quality. As can be seen in the Museum Folkwang in Essen. The new extension building was planned by David Chipperfields Architects from London and the PLAN FORWARD architects, but the PLAN FORWARD architects and engineers were entrusted with the realisation of the construction. The planning and execution thus coalesced naturally to create a landmark in Essen's cityscape and the whole region. It was preceded by the successful conversion of the listed part of the museum, which is famous in the Ruhr and way beyond. With architectural sensitivity, the PLAN FORWARD team managed to create a building that meets and exceeds the contemporary requirements for museums.

The project Museum Folkwang paved the way for the design-build of a new construction of another place of cultural interest: the Museum of Fine Arts in Tiflis, or Tbilisi, in Georgia, one of the international projects of the company.

Creating living environments, designing working environments

pletely immersed in the project, and breaking through horizons. Michael Jockers sums it up: “Our name stands for leaping forward and groundbreaking architectural planning.”

This sounds as if PLAN FORWARD were only involved in extensive projects. But Dieter Deichsel adds another dimension:“Our architectural planning designs living and working environments for people, on a large scale as well as in microcosm. Apart from prestigious mega-projects, such as the headquarters of the former E.ON Ruhrgas AG, a gas trading company, we put emphasis on sensitively conducted conversions or redevelopments of old buildings.”

Company information: PLAN FORWARD GmbH Formation: 2000 Office employees: 25 Mitarbeiter Core competences: architecture, project development, planning, construction, supervision, design-builds Focal points: culture, sports, education, living and working Services: new builds, conversions, redevelopments Chief executive: Klaus Wolff (owner), Dipl.-Ing. Arch. Dieter Deichsel, Dipl.-Ing. Arch. Michael Jockers

Head office Stuttgart: PLAN FORWARD GmbH Hospitalstr.12 70174 Stuttgart T. +49 (0)711 99 33 79-0 F. +49 (0)711 99 33 79-40 E. stuttgart@plan-forward.de Büro Essen: PLAN FORWARD GmbH Huyssenallee 66-68 45128 Essen T. +49 (0)201 178 79-30 F. +49 (0)201 178 79-29 E. essen@plan-forward.de

www.plan-forward.de www.facebook.com/PlanForward www.wolffgruppe.de Below: Museum of Fine Arts, Tbilisi, Georgia @GIA & ARCHIL KURDIANIS STUDIO

It is the variety that makes planning and designing so exciting.

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Left: Levi’s, Berlin Below: w40 Right: Adidas, Berlin & Diesel

The concept to incorporate today’s spirit in their distinctive buildings can be felt whenever you take a look at their smart building solutions. The different characteristics of each individual project dictate the form the architects choose but they always work with a contemporary approach, exploring new possibilities and planning in a forward-thinking manner.

The company’s name W40 stands for the office’s address Wilhemstreet 40 in Wiesbaden and W40i is simply the interior component. Together they provide an all-round service covering architecture, interior design and brand architecture as well as interior constructions, shop fittings and project management.This means that they have an

W40 and W40i Wiesbaden

Seeing the bigger picture, loving the smallest detail W40 Architects and the designers from W40 Interiors ensure their buildings are more than distinctive through managing projects in their entirety. Keen on facing the challenge, they literally take care of your project inside, outside!

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: W40 ARCHITECTS /W40 INTERIORS

Over 13 years ago founder and owner Markus Gabler opened his first architecture office and has since then realized building projects across Germany and Europe.Their

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range shows great diversity and for example includes tasteful single-family homes and villas, impressive business premises and exclusive stores that enhance brands.

Markus Gabler

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design Guide Germany

Apart from intelligent strategy, delivering on time and budget, and having in-depth knowledge in the expertise areas, Gabler believes strongly in committing to creativity: “The primary objective for us is not to develop one architectural hallmark uniformly for all buildings. Each building and each room should be given the shape, appearance and atmosphere that corresponds with its determination and the special framework conditions under which the interiors are designed.”Amongst many others, satisfied clients include Levi’s and Diesel as well as Adidas, Pizza Hut, Nike, Scotch & Soda and Lego, especially when it comes to brand architecture.

The Lego stores in Berlin, Copenhagen, Hamburg and Frankfurt are a fantastic example of the love of detail and of how Gabler’s team understands the key points that really matter for each specific project.

This is also reflected in their choice of materials: they never shy away from trying new and innovative concepts. That some-

thing has not been done before is the right incentive for getting their creative juices flowing. Particularly in a time where brands started to offer much more than just products or services, the architects and designers have to match each brand’s individual approach to customers in order to create a brand-coherent concept. And fortunately exactly those creative solutions seem to come easily to the team at W40 and W40i.

But being young and innovative also carries some big challenges as Gabler lets us know:“For a young architectural office it is very difficult to receive orders under normal conditions, as in 99 per cent of all cases integrity and reliability is equated with a metres-long reference list. A few clients recognize that especially young architectural offices, through an increased commitment and unconventional point of view, design buildings and interiors that clearly stand out of every day monotony and better suit functional requirements.“ And one of those clients is Diesel, which has hired W40i to design and develop together with the interior design department of Diesel Italy, the interiors of their new 450,000 square metres flagship store in Frankfurt that is set to become the European masterpiece and new face of the brand itself. Exciting times indeed!“Brand architecture as we define it comprises the competences of architecture, communication and design and develops new solutions for three-dimensional brand management. Where a brand is physically

perceptible, its identity can be discovered and the product can be experienced by all the senses.Thereby, we create an emotional connection between human being, product and brand.”

Aside from the creative aspect it is important to also mention the project management side of W40. Great ideas are nothing without careful planning and strict management of all on-going processes. Therefore the team of architects, designers, engineers and technicians is trained to keep budget and schedules in check. Analysing and always recording the project status are an absolute must and leads to the elaborate organisation and coordination when it comes to managing the building site.

Gabler’s concept proves to be successful year after year:“In the future we want to remain true to our philosophy and of course always aim at improving.”

W40 is an authentic company where grand ideas are bound to become reality thanks to the interdisciplinary work ethic and the diversity of its team of experts. www.w40.com

Roeskens

overview at all times, work in an interdisciplinary mode and design coherent concepts, taking all aspects, options and materials into account.

For clients this combination is certainly invaluable.

Gabler’s team members regard themselves as trustees and partners of their clients, which goes far beyond just providing a service.“Our experience has shown that it is important to consider the client as a creative partner within the process of project development,”Gabler explains.

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture & Design Guide Germany

s1 architects use “real”materials to create dramatic retail space Founded by Ansgar Schmidt and Henning Ziepke, s1 became a household name for retail space creations made of brick walls and concrete structures. The client list reads impressively, featuring names like Carhartt, Bread & Butter, 14oz, Closed by 14oz, G-Star, Schiesser Revival, Telekom, Calvin Klein and other leading retailers.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: S1 ARCHITECTS

“One of our key skills is the respectful and self-confident handling of existing buildings and respectively the existing basic structure.

We take great care of the materials we use for surfaces and only use‘real’materials for our creations,” Ansgar Schmidt says and he reveals:“A good project result requires a certain dramatic composition. This can be found in a single screw or even the placement of a piece of furniture, but also in the configuration of rooms within a building or the location of the building, the deliberate localisation.” s1 always works in close dialogue with the client while using the association with images to help the client to identify himself with the project.These images also spark emotions, which is essential for a successful project completion.

The recently created 14oz. Haus Cumberland retail space project, where a distinctive selection of top brands are gathered under one roof, is the latest s1 success. Located in Berlin’s iconic Kurfürstendamm, the project required efficient communication as Schmidt explains: “Close teamwork with clients and craftsmen was key. Only by mutual dialogue and teamwork can results like the 14 oz. be achieved.The capability and the know-how of everyone involved needed to be bundled and cut to the chase.”

Currently s1 is revamping the new Calvin Klein showroom Düsseldorf, as well the conversion of a historic industrial site in Berlin into an event location. www.s1architektur.com

14oz Berlin Haus Cumberland

Kawahara Krause Architects

threads stretching from floor to ceiling seemed to dissolve in space and recompose to ever new spatial appearances varying between transparent and closed surfaces.”

Until 31 August 2013 a new installation can be viewed along with other projects of KAWAHARA KRAUSE ARCHITECTS in a special exhibition in Renate Kammer’s gallery Hamburg. “House in the Forest” is another re-visioned space. According to the architects the summer house“offers a variety of spatial situations rather than classical rooms. The physical boundaries between the inside and outside, house and landscape intertwine, the forest becomes part of the house, the house becomes part of the forest.”

Re-visioning space The Hamburg based German-Japanese architect’s studio was established in 2009 by Tatsuya Kawahara and Ellen Kristina Krause. Having gained practical experience with reputable Japanese architect’s offices before opening their own studio in Germany, they share the interest in re-visioning space with unprejudiced eyes.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: KAWAHARA KRAUSE ARCHITECTS

which the functionality of a garden hut, where logs needed to be stored, was combined with the client’s request for a personal place of contemplation and prayer.“By using the firewood found on site and granting it a new use, an unusual space emerged.”

Another striking creation is the“Line, surface, space” installation that played with the perception of space. “A fragile structure of

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www.kawahara-krause.com

House in the forest

Wooden Hut

Line Surface Space

“Multiple international experiences are the driving force of our open and unprejudiced design approach, always questioning the given conditions of context, function, construction, material and perception. Interpretation and integration of these conditions lead us to a conceptual and project-oriented architecture,” Ellen Kristina Krause explains.

Take a look at the Wooden Hut project, in

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Restaurant of the Month | Germany

Restaurant of the Month Germany

Oriental delight in the heart of Hamburg

Delicious food from 1001 nights Right in the heart of Hamburg lies the Syrian restaurant Mazza. With its oriental ambience, mouth-watering, exotic food and award-winning wine selection guests instantly feel part of the 1001 nights fairy tale.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: MAZZA

Open sesame! Once inside guests are greeted by welcoming staff before being seated in the contemporary restaurant with an oriental twist. Instead of studying the menu and trying to make a difficult choice, food is ordered easily here as there is only one option available: The Mazza Menu.The exciting mix of mainly vegetarian Syrian starters, main courses of lamb, fish or poultry and mouth-watering oriental sweets for dessert are served in what seems to be a never-ending presentation of treats for all the senses. Syrian cuisine is a blend of Arabic and Persian influenced Mediterranean style recipes. All dishes are made from fresh and authentic ingredients and include delicacies such as houmous (mashed chick peas), tabbouleh (spiced and chopped pars-

ley), Warak Inab (vine leaves stuffed with fresh herbs and tomatoes), falafel and other fresh and tasty delights. “For our Syrian

Samer Charouf

chef and his team, the authentic preparation is key. We source some of the ingredients directly from Syria. Existing recipes are constantly revised and refined, so the Mazza menu surprises our returning guests again and again,” Samer Charouf, owner of the Mazza restaurant, explains.

Locals as well as other guests love the exotic ambience. “Guests feel like a prince from the Orient or like Sherezade and enjoy their visit with all their senses. Our Mazza menu, the five-course house speciality, is served in 1001 little bowls and leaves no room for desire. Our service is unobtrusive and very attentive. Here our guests can leave daily life behind and simply enjoy a very special evening,” Charouf says. And there is even more to enjoy as the Mazza offers an impressive wine selection, as he points out: “Wine lovers are truly blessed here. Our wine menu has won numerous awards. A speciality is our top wines from Lebanon, which are cultivated in the sunny BekaaValley region such as the Clos St. Thomas Chardonnay or the red Château Musar.” www.mazza-hamburg.de

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Vinous Vienna Heurigen and Buschenschanken TEXT: ANNE KREBIEHL | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

No other capital city, no other metropolis in Europe or the rest of the world, can boast actual working vineyards likeVienna: there are 680 hectares of vineyards within the city limits, 612 of which are currently producing wine – that is the equivalent of almost 85 Wembley-sized football-pitches.

The vines and vineyards are tended by more than 230 growers and about 80 small wineries turn the grapes into wine. In 2010 the output was 16,750 hectolitres, or 2.23 million bottles. And while this represents a little less than 1% of the entire Austrian wine production, very few of theseViennese bottles ever leave the city – they are mainly drunk in Vienna, in the many so-called Heurigen inns or Buschenschanken with-

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out which there would be noViennese viticulture: their importance and history ensured that the vineyards which are as old as the city itself are still lining the fringes of the Austrian capital.

Ever since the Austrian Emperor Josef II decreed in 1784 that every winegrower had the right to sell his own wine on the premises directly to customers, these inns became part of the very fabric of Vienna. For Viennese winemaker Rainer Christ, Heurigen have become“an institution that is inextricably linked with the name of this city.”

Without their popularity and the ready market they provide for the local wine,Viennese viticulture would have been eaten

up by urbanisation a long time ago. They are, in fact, an ideal wine marketing proposition: they provide a unique, local and authentic product to a prosperous, thirsty metropolis without an intermediary. And not only the Viennese are thirsty, so are the millions of visitors to whom a Heurigen visit is as obligatory as climbing the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Initially, these inns were impromptu affairs, signalling the sale of wine by fresh treebranches hung outside the winery, hence the word “Buschenschank”. The word “Heuriger” refers to the fact that young wine, from the current harvest year, i.e. “heuer” in Austrian dialect, was being

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Discover Germany | Dine & Wine | Anne Krebiel Column

Main image: Falkenberg Top: Vineyard Below: Wine Tavern Schubel-Auer. © Wien Tourismus / Peter Rigaud

served. Today, there are both simple, temporary Buschenschanken, opening for just a few weeks each year and more permanent Heurigen. Neither are they the makeshift inns of old – today’s Heurigen are proper bistro-bars, some of them icons of modern architecture – like Rainer Christ’s streamlined new edifice.

But what about the wine? The indigenous Austrian grape GrünerVeltliner is the mostplanted variety, it makes slender-bodied, dry, peppery whites that are easy to like, easy to drink and easily paired with all sorts of food – they are a natural in a Heurigen setting. Then there are Riesling, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay as well as Austria’s won-

derful indigenous but little-known varieties: white Neuburger is textured, rounded and nutty while Rotgipfler, a white variety with reddish shoots and leaf tips, is peachy and very aromatic. But Vienna’s most authentic and historic wine is “Gemischter Satz”– this is a blend of white grape varieties that are planted together in the same vineyard and co-fermented. In the past, before mono-varietal planting became de rigueur across the world, most vineyards were co-plantations of many varieties all of which had differing ripening times and differing susceptibilities. This biodiversity within a vineyard provided both an insurance against bad weather and disease pressure: in a cool year, the early ripening varieties would make the wine palatable while in warm years the late-ripening varieties provided much-needed acidity and freshness. All grapes are harvested and vinified together. Most Gemischter Satz wines contain a significant portion of Grüner Veltliner, along with other local and white varieties, but never more than 50% of the total. “Once again,” says Rainer Christ, “Gemischter Satz is Vienna’s most important white wine.” Christ himself was instrumental in promoting this almost com-

pletely outmoded way of winegrowing. The efforts of a small group of Vienna winemakers to rehabilitate and reinvigorate this “most traditional way of viticulture” are soon to be crowned with Austria’s latest DAC – the Districtus Austriae Controllatus, a quality appellation enshrined in Austrian wine law. “We are really excited,” says Christ, “the national wine committee has just ratified the DAC and thus ensured the continued existence of Viennese Gemischter Satz for generations to come.” With any luck the final ministerial sign-off will come in time to qualify the 2013 harvest for this latest Austrian DAC. “Within a short decade,” smiles Christ,“we have created a new dynamic that makes it really interesting to work here.” It will be even more exciting to drink one of Europe’s most authentic white wines – off to the next Heurigen!

Below: Baumergasse Bottom: Christ Winery

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Vienna “Something Old & Something New” With its successful blend of imperial tradition and contemporary creativity, the Austrian capital has established itself as one of the most popular cities in the world for leisure and business travelers.

TEXT & IMAGES: VIENNA TOURIST BOARD

The Austrian capital is the city in Europe with the highest ratio of green space.“Urban green” such as Stadtpark is joined by the woods and grassland of Prater, the extensive Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, sections of theVienna Woods, vineyards, farmland and the wetlands of the legendary Danube River. During the summer temperatures rarely rise above 30º C, and in winter they hardly ever fall below -5º C. Vienna owes its universal appeal to the way it excitingly combines imperial nostalgia with a highly creative cultural scene, responsibly cultivating a precious heritage and charming traditions whilst taking on board the latest trends. Architecture dating from imperial times has left an indelible mark on the city. Magnificent edifices, predominantly in baroque, historicism (“Ringstrasse”) and art nouveau styles, and

32 | Issue 6 | August 2013

the city’s grand scale cause you to forget that this is the capital of the small Republic of Austria with only 8.4 million inhabitants. InVienna, you re-live the romance of a long-lost empire.

State Opera House, the Albertina houses the world’s largest collection of graphic art, spanning 60,000 drawings, some million prints and an extensive collection of photographic and architectural material.

World famous art

The Belvedere palaces and formal gardens make up one of Europe’s most attractive Baroque ensembles.The Upper Belvedere is home to the world’s leading collection of Austrian art, with examples spanning everything from the middle ages to the 20th century. Among the absolute highlights is the world’s largest collection of works by Gustav Klimt – including his best-known composition, The Kiss. By contrast, the Lower Belvedere and the Orangery host a constantly changing line-up of seasonal exhibitions. A short distance from the Upper Belvedere is the former Austrian pavilion from the 1958 World Exhibition, which

Vienna boasts world-renowned museums, art collections and works of art. The Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) houses the world’s largest collection of paintings by Brueghel, as well as the newly renovated Kunstkammer, a unique collection of artifacts and oddities. Key attractions include the Leopold Museum with the world’s largest collection of Schieles and works by renowned modern Austrian artists such as Klimt, Kokoschka and Gerst; the mumok – Museum moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig Wien, Architekturzentrum Wien, and Kunsthalle Wien. Close to the

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Vienna

Left: Prater Giant Ferris Wheel with panoramic view. © WienTourismus Imperial Palace Leopldinischer Trakt, view to Michaelerkuppel. © WienTourismus / Manfred Horvath Bottom: Musikverein concert. © WienTourismus / Harry Weber Naschmarkt. © WienTourismus / Peter Rigaud Coffeehouse Demel. © WienTourismus / Peter Rigaud

of music – where sounds become visible, organ pipes may be walked on and visitors can become virtual conductors and composers. A further attraction is the Mozarthaus Vienna which opened on January 27, 2006 – Mozart’s 250th birthday – in his former residence at Domgasse.

Lifestyle: Imperial Nostalgia & Contemporary Trends

Special Theme

Vienna Main image: Schönbrunn Palace summer. © WienTourismu / Manfred Horvath

opened its doors to the public once again as the “21er Haus”, presenting Austrian art from 1945 to the present day against its international context.

City of Music – Traditional & Modern Vienna has traditionally accorded the arts great respect, and over the centuries has never ceased to foster creativity and attract people from all over the world.Vienna boasts 50 theatres, including four opera houses and several stage musical theatres and ensures an extraordinarily rich cultural programme throughout the year, making the city one of Europe’s leading cultural centres.

No other city has been home to so many composers of international renown. Some, such as Schubert, Strauss, Schoenberg and Berg were born there, others, such as Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Brahms and

Mahler chose to live there. It boasts one of the world’s finest orchestras – the Vienna Philharmonic – as well as theVienna Symphony Orchestra and several other orchestras and ensembles of note. The Vienna State Opera is one of the world’s leading opera houses, and is joined by three more in the city (Theater an der Wien,Volksoper, Kammeroper).

The Vienna Boys’ Choir enchants music lovers the world over. In addition to classical music,Vienna has also made its mark as a city of musicals, and recent successes in electronic music show that the avant-garde is also taken seriously in Vienna. A very special way to enjoy music is presented at the House of Music – a unique high-tech voyage of discovery into the phenomenon

The juxtaposition of what is traditional – coffeehouses and wine taverns with typical Viennese congeniality – and what is modern – events such as the Life Ball and the Festival of Electronic Music – conveys a lifestyle that appeals to the modern visitor.

A choice between relaxation and serenity, or action and stimulation that can be made depending on your mood.

The Naschmarkt, Vienna’s multinational fruit and vegetable market, has witnessed the emergence of an extraordinarily diverse gastronomic scene in its vicinity over the past years. During the summer, Viennese and tourists alike throng not only to Prater Park with the famous Giant Ferris Wheel, but also to the Copa Cagrana on Danube Island. Beach atmosphere can also be soaked up at the numerous riverside bathing areas along the Danube Canal where summer sun is accompanied by cool drinks. And the wine tavern districts on the gentle hillsides of the Vienna Woods extend an invitation to seriously “study”Vienna and its wines.

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Main image, left: Biedermann und die Brandstifter. Photo: Dominique Wiesbauer Below: Baal, starring Sebastien Soules.

Photo: Armin Bardel Billy Budd, starring Adrian Erod.

Photo: Peter Grubinger

Contemporary delight at the Neue Oper Vienna

Modern music theatre at the highest level “The Neue Oper Wien has performed since the early 90s and has specialized in contemporary opera, a field in which no other opera group or house in Vienna operates. Although the Neue Oper Wien acts with an extremely smaller budget than the big stages, it receives subsidies from the City of Vienna and the federal government, and it manages to produce contemporary works to an utmost professional standard,” explains Barbara Preis, responsible for press and PR of the Neue Oper Wien.

TEXT: JESSICA RIDDER | PHOTOS: NEUE OPER WIEN

With neither its own fixed venue, nor a constant ensemble of singers and only very few staff, Neue Oper Wien wishes to remain flexible and unburdened. There is the claim for each work to find the optimal space and through the choice of that space often the barriers between performer and audience are overcome. Also, the complete cast is re-cast for each production to find the perfect person for each respective role.

“Many of today’s famous singers started out at the Neue Oper Wien.” Preis adds: “Many singers, after they performed in productions were signed to fixed houses inVienna.”

34 | Issue 6 | August 2013

Walter Kobéra, the director of the Neue Oper Wien, was the one who ignited the keen Viennese with works by Benjamin Britten, when he staged the Austrian premiere of Billy Budd in 1996 with the Neue Oper Wien. This year, 2013, Walter Kobéra furthermore celebrates his 20th anniversary with the Neue Oper Wien.

Walter Kobéra.

Photo: Armin Bardel He has been the

music director since 1991, and its artistic and managing director since 1993.“During these years he presented great premieres, which you would otherwise never have been able to see in Austria. For the 85th Birthday of Friedrich Cerha in 2011, Walter Kobéra with the Neue Oper Wien staged Cerha's great opera Baal, the only institution that showed one of this major Austrian composer’s opera in his anniversary year,” Preis says.

This fall 2013 will see two interesting and important new projects take place. The Neue Oper Wien will present not less than two world premieres: in September, the opera Biedermann und die Brandstifter by Simon Voseček. And then In October, a world premiere of the famous and important composer Peter Eötvös called Paradis Reloaded (Lilith).

“Premieres are always a special challenge.

You can rely on no experience here; on the other hand, this provides a lot of room for imagination. Both directing concepts promise to be very impressive.”

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Vienna

Bank Austria Kunstforum Vienna

nipulations and shifts of perception (exhibition from 4 September to 6 October 2013).

From 16 October, 2013 to 2 February, 2014 the Bank Austria Kunstforum presents its autumn highlight: the collaboration work of Pop-Artlegend Andy Warhol and the Afro-American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat from the years 1984/1985.

Finest art collections and impressive architecture.

As the most successful exhibition site in Austria, the Bank Austria Kunstforum plays a very important role as one of the capital’s cultural mediators.

TEXT: LYDIA EVERS | PHOTOS: BANK AUSTRIA KUNSTFORUM

Where fruit is turned into art TEXT: TINA AWTANI

plum compote. Hearty produce includes fine pickled vegetables such as bell peppers stuffed with cabbage or cherry chili peppers. Don’t miss out trying the chutneys or the typical sweet-sourViennese Horseradish.

To celebrate the 150th birthday ofViennese artist Gustav Klimt, a limited preserve

Bank Austria Kunstforum

www.bankaustria-kunstforum.at

Staud’s fine preserves

Often described as Vienna’s King of preserves, Hans Staud turned what started as a wholesale fruit trading business into an international gourmet preserve empire.

Within decades he successfully established Staud’s as a world leader for fine preserves and fruit products. Staud’s recipes are highly appreciated by gourmets not only in the main markets, Germany and Switzerland, but also in Russia, China, the USA, the United Arab Emirates and many other regions far beyond the borders of Vienna; leading international hotels are also proudly presenting Staud’s to their discerning guests for breakfast.

Preserves made of blood oranges, an elderberry-plum-apple combination or wild lingo berries are just a few examples of the rich variety available. The compote range reaches from "Williams Christ" pear apple sauce to

With around 250,000 visitors every year, the Bank Austria Kunstforum ranks as the fifth most visited exhibition venue in the country and one of the 20 most popular tourist attractions in Vienna today. Come and see for yourself – and let the arts and the stunning city of Vienna enchant you!

Picasso or Wolfgang Joop) present their globally unique collections. Upcoming showings include works of art by the Austrian artist Jürgen Messensee, who experiments with ma-

Director Dr. Ingrid Brugger

Van Gogh or Miró, Cézanne or Picasso, Kandinsky or Chagall, Warhol or Lichtenstein: The Bank Austria Kunstforum in Vienna is Austria’s top address for classical modern, post-war and contemporary paintings. As the first private exhibition venue in Austria, the institution was founded in 1988 by the ÖsterreichischeLänderbank (“Austrian Bank”). Today it is internationally known for continuously setting new accents in the arts. For the director Dr. Ingrid Brugger and her team quality and the right communication of culture and art have the highest priority. Over 1,120 square metres renowned museums (such as the Guggenheim Museum New York or the Russian Museum St. Petersburg) and significant private art collectors (such as Bernard

Founded in 1988 by the Österreichische Länderbank Today: 250,000 visitors per year Director: Dr. Ingrid Brugger Upcoming exhibitions: Jürgen Messensee Andy Warhol & Jean-Michel Basquiat

edition was launched featuring 47 various Art Nouveau designs on the lids of this exclusive collector’s edition.Ten million lids will be available across 14 different countries.“Gourmets all over the world will be reminded that there are so many beautiful things waiting for them to discover in Vienna. Through the one-of-a-kind designs of the packaging I offer my major customers the multiple value of my products.

For individual customers, a passion for collecting will certainly be initiated, as was shown by both former editions,” Hans Staud explains. www.stauds.com

Art nouveau collection. © Staud’s / Photo: Kittel.at

Staud's pavillon at Brunnenmarkt.

Photo: www.diefotografin.at

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Flugzeug takes off and launches SLEEVE for iPhones and iPads TEXT: JULIENRATH | PHOTOS: PRESS IMAGES

Reusing material from airlines and turning it into fashion items, that’s what Austrian company Flugzeug does. For founder Andreas Roesler-Schmidt it all started with a strong interest in commercial flying during his master’s degree. Roesler-Schmidt completed it by writing a thesis on in-flight entertainment. After years of working in the communications industry Roesler-Schmidt launched his fashion accessories brand Flugzeug in September 2012 where he takes equipment that airlines have to renew and turns them into uniquely designed accessories.

The method of upcycling first came about in the early 1990s where German entre-

36 | Issue 6 | August 2013

preneurs tried to find new ways of reusing materials. Unlike recycling, where the older

Flug zeug BELTS come in different colours

materials get destroyed to make a new product or material, upcycling simply takes what it’s given and reuses it in creative ways to make something new.

The first success came with BELT which used airline belt buckles to make belts that could be easily adjusted. “We sold so many that it got us soaring

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Vienna

Main image, left: Founder Andreas Roesler-Schmidt Main image, right: Team at work Right: Sleeve for iPad Sleeve for iPad mini Sleeve for iPhone

and this year we are bringing out SLEEVE to continue that trend,” says RoeslerSchmidt.

SLEEVE is made out of unused life vests that airlines are forced to replace.“Many of the life vests we got are unused and clean, some are even in their original packaging.

This allows me to reuse them right away when I get them without even having to clean them,” he adds.This is one of the first ways upcycling is done without the necessity of any other resources such as water or cleaning chemicals. The raw materials for the SLEEVE pouches come from a number of different airlines which Roesler-Schmidt says he isn’t allowed to name: “It’s not be-

cause they’re not flying around without life vests now. Those obviously get replaced right away. It’s because airlines are very careful when it comes to their brand and security measures.”

Flugzeug receives the life vests in their natural shape and size which poses a challenge for Roesler-Schmidt’s creative team.

Each pouch is hand-made to size in Vienna, Austria. Every customer gets a unique pouch with different designs. The material from the life vests brings many advantages to protecting your gadgets. The pouches are waterproof and tearproof. As you would

with an actual life vest to blow it up, you pull at it to get your tablet or phone out of the pouch. On the inside the pouches are filled with a microfibre cloth which protects your devices from scratches and also cleans it when you pull it out.

The internet allows Flugzeug to reach the largest number of people and the SLEEVE pouches went on sale June 10. They are available in sizes for iPhone 5, iPad and iPad mini. Further sizes are currently being developed. www.flug-zeug.at

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Left: © www.foto-julius.at Below: Cutlery Set No 135. © Wiener Silber Manufactur Joop Magic Mushrooms. © Wiener Silber Manufactur

Wien Products Officially the finest goods Viennese craftsmen have to offer Besides being known for its great art and architecture, Austria’s capital Vienna offers a wide range of local high quality products. From design through decoration to culinary delicacies – Wien Products has summoned the best of the best and brings them to you.

TEXT: LYDIA EVERS

Sharing Vienna’s finest products with the rest of the world – this is the mission of Wien Products. The trademark of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce and Industry was founded in 1995 with the goal of supporting the export efforts of selected Viennese consumer goods manufacturers into the major international markets. Companies associated with Wien Products always produce goods of outstanding quality, provide excellent service and seek to incorporateVienna’s unique flair and sense of aesthetics into their products. The current 47

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firms are subdivided into six categories: Ambience ofVienna (interior design with a difference), Performance ofVienna (unique cultural delights), Pleasures of Vienna (exquisite fashion and design),Taste ofVienna (delicious food and beverages), Top Tables ofVienna (exclusive handcrafted tableware) and Treasures of Vienna (jewellery with timeless elegance). Featured enterprises and institutions include Viennese museums, orchestras, confectioners, jewellery designers and many more – all of the highest standard.

Love for tradition with passion for innovation One of Wien Products’prestigious companies in the category Top Tables of Vienna is the Wiener Silber Manufactur. The company has its roots in one of the oldest Austrian craft workshops and looks back on a history of more than 130 years. Its entire collection is meticulously handcrafted in Vienna and made of the unique silver alloy 940/000, which is even more valuable than sterling silver.

Using original designs from its archives, Wiener Silber Manufactur reproduces handmade classic pieces from the history of design, such as the revolutionary No. 135 cutlery set created in 1902 by Josef Hoffmann, which became one of the iconic symbols of Viennese design. In addition to

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Vienna

Schlumberger. © Schlumberger

the tea and coffee sets, bowls, vases or candleholders from the time ofViennese Workshops (1903-1932) and thereafter, the firm now also offers sophisticated tableware in modern designs by contemporary designers such as, for instance, Wolfgang Joop who recently created “Magic Mushrooms” – a luxurious pure silver table decoration.Year after year, this company creates new accents in top-quality silver design which are available in the exquisite shop Wiener Silber Manufactur boutique inVienna or from exclusive specialist dealers.

History meets tradition meets future The Schlumberger Wein- und Sektkellerei in the Wien Products’ category Taste of Vienna is the oldest wine cellar in Austria and offers a diligent selection of the finest sparkling wines. Since 1842 Schlumberger has cultivated a particularly complex production method employed only by the best manufacturers of Champagne: the classic “traditional bottle conditioning”or “Méthode Traditionelle”in combination with Austria’s finest internationally acclaimed premium wines give each of the Schlumberger sparkling varieties its exquisite bouquet.

Among the selection are for instance the Schlumberger Chardonnay Brut (made from the only existing white Chardonnay grape), the Schlumberger Rosé Secco (made from selected Pinot Noir grapes) or the classic Schlumberger Sparkling Brut (made from selected Welschriesling, Weißburgunder and Chardonnay grapes).

Most varieties age up to 18 months followed by manual riddling, which makes them superbly tasteful.

Timeless design Elegance and formal simplicity, high quality and functionality – these are the trademarks of WOKA Lamps Vienna (listed under Wien Products’ Ambience of Vienna category). The company is internationally known for the reproduction of lighting fixtures according to the designs of the Vienna Workshop and masters of the 20th century such as Josef Hoffmann and Adolf Loos. In order to continuously add new designs to the product range, WOKA now also works with renowned international architects and designers such as Metteo Thun from Italy and the Austrian André Heller.

Each lamp is made from fine materials such as selected silk, opal glass blown by mouth and hand-cut crystal. Apart from the WOKA collection, the company also offers exquisite antique chandeliers from 1800 until today, as well as antique furniture, works of art and design icons. Based on the knowledge of the masters and craftsmen, the products are still completely handmade and thus a history and tradition in Vienna is carried on.

Take Vienna Home Only a few selected Viennese enterprises and cultural institutions, whose products meet strict quality criteria and high standards, have been awarded Wien Products membership. Each of these carefully chosen manufacturers aims to capture something of the special charm and style that contributes to Vienna’s enduring popularity.

Now it is possible to take a little bit of the Austrian capital’s feel home with you.

Company information: Wien Products Founded in 1995 Trademark of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce and Industry Numbers 47 Viennese companies today Only first class products from Vienna

www.wienproducts.at www.wienersilbermanufactur.com www.schlumberger.at www.woka.com

© WOKA Lamps Vienna

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Hotel

of the Month

Cultivated hospitality at Vienna’s Hotel am Konzerthaus You will find everything you wish for and more in the Hotel am Konzerthaus, which is just a step from the imposing concert hall itself. Opened in 1913 it hosts classical concerts that will make you feel as if you are a part of Vienna’s high society. The Hotel’s dedicated staff welcomes guests from all over the world to enjoy Austria’s most beautiful city of Vienna.

TEXT: LEONIE PUSCHER | PHOTOS: PRESS PHOTOS

Waking up between crisp white sheets, taking a shower with the L’Occitane products provided, inhaling the smell of fresh brewed coffee, and making an exquisite variety of breakfast choices – doesn’t that sound like a holiday? Creating a plate from the breakfast buffet just as you never would at home. Freshly prepared fruit, countless different baps and rolls, scrambled eggs with bacon, you name it, you’ll find it. And if you can’t, this won’t be a problem in one of the most exclusive Hotels in Vienna.

“Special requests from our guests will be seen as an opportunity to provide an even more unforgettable experience at the Hotel

40 | Issue 6 | August 2013

am Konzerthaus,”says Florian Seibert, assistant director.

Vienna is the perfect place for a city break.

Austria’s capital is a tourist magnet for

Austria

many reasons. Its nickname ‘City of music’ has been well earned due to the astonishing number of world-class musicians having lived and worked inVienna. Beethoven, Mozart, Strauss, Brahms, to name only a few. The city on the river Donau is the cultural centre of the country.The city centre is even a UNESCO world heritage site.

And in the middle of it all, you will find the opportunity to experience the city’s high living standards and become part of the city’s legacy, by staying in the ‘Hotel am Konzerthaus’. 211 rooms fitted to make you forget about all worries and nearly 94,000 visitors per year on average are living proof.

Entering the Hotel’s lobby you’ll be impressed by the striking Art Nouveau style throughout. You will find the era’s typical inspirations of flowers, plants and curved lines all over the Hotel. Artwork by Gustav

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Discover Germany | Hotel of the Month | Austria

Another astonishing fact, and one of its best features, is the Hotel’s location.“Many attractions like the Stadtpark (city park), Belvedere, and theVienna opera house, are only a few minutes walk away,”says Florian Seibert. It is the best location to start your day exploring the nearby Museums, theatres, cafés, going for relaxing walks or taking one of the close by trams or underground stations, very convenient when you’re exhausted from too much sightseeing.

Klimt found in many parts of the Hotel will leave you with a unique Art Nouveau experience. From here you can go on to explore the era’s traces throughout the vibrant centre of Vienna. Architecture by Otto Wagner signifies theVienna secession during the late 18th century. The typical pure geometric forms can be found in places such as Karlplatz Stadtbahn Station and the Kirche am Steinhof. If you are looking for more information or directions, the welcoming and polite staff will not hesitate to help you out.

You will find customer satisfaction reflected in the Hotel’s online ranking and throughout its good reviews on sites like Tripadviser.

In the evening you can treat yourself in the Hotel restaurant ‘Oscars’. Take a seat on the terrace or in the tastefully decorated indoor space and enjoy “Austrian Italian fusion”. Chef Norbert Zauchinger calls it his mission to send your taste buds on a culinary journey to explore the world of flavours and textures. Just for a little instant mouthwatering experience, a little sneak peek into the magic that happens in the kitchen: How would you like aVienna style ragout of veal’s heart and lung with bread dumpling, parsley and sour cream? Or do you feel rather adventurous exploring the prawn lasagne and leaf spinach in tomatobutter fond, garden herbs and lemon? I’m sure your taste buds have not been here before: Small crackling lard dumplings on carrot-ginger cabbage and pine nuts. Sweet tooth? Try this: “Vienna Kaiserschmarrn” with peach-amaretto chutney, toasted brioche and plum sorbet. Yum! It doesn’t stop here, though. All the ingredients are cautiously selected from local, organic farmers to reduce long transport journeys in order to look after our climate.

Before getting back between the crisp white sheets, why not stop for a nightcap? “The bar, designed using typical elements from the Art Nouveau era shows nostalgic charm through original pieces from the “Orient Express” train.” Here you’ll find a neverending list of beverages to clink your glasses to an unforgettable stay in Vienna. www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-1276-hotel-amkonzerthaus-mgallery-collection/

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Special Theme

Architecture Guide

Austrian Architecture is facing an exciting future

Austria

According to UN research, in 2007 – for the first time ever – more people lived in cities than in the countryside. It is estimated that by 2030 the number of people living in cities will reach 60 per cent with an estimated increase to 70 per cent by 2050 TEXT: TINA AWTANI

This fact leads to an unavoidable blend of architecture and human society and everything that surrounds it. One can’t get away from it. That makes variety, which evolves throughout the architectural landscape, even more important. Austria offers plenty of different scenarios.The architectural hallmarks of Tyrol,Vorarlberg, Styria or Vienna are quite different, but they have one thing in common: dialogue with the people.

42 | Issue 6 | August 2013

As a result the importance of architecture in our society has gained importance over the recent decades. A newly published book is discussed, a new movie gets reviews and just like that architecture always needs to be part of a public discussion. A reason for this is, on the one hand, the early focus on sustainable ways of building, which has already had a strong impact on Austrian building culture for quite a while. The re-

sponsible use of resources and environment is a special hallmark of regional architecture, which over the past years has been enriched by substantial additional know-how.

On the other hand, probably one of the most significant hallmarks is how the gap between tradition and contemporary is bridged; only this makes a dialogue be-

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Special Theme | Architecture Guide Austria

Left: The Geiberg Premium Spa Photo: Team M Architects

tween the past and the present possible.

One can be excited by what innovation Austrian building culture will offer in order to answer society’s big questions, reaching from building density through the conservation of material to the creation of affordable living.

But it is not only architecture and its creations that define Austrian’s building culture. It is also about the cultural parameters that will be created in order to offer the deserved space for architectural dialogue.

The “Architekturtage” [architecture days] string of events offers a unique platform for the dialogue between architects and those interested in architecture. With about 500 items on the agenda such as theme tours, neighbourhood tours, open studios, etc. several thousand visitors will be offered a platform for communication, and that again shows the importance of what architecture right down to its core really is and remains: a dialogue with the people.

The next architecture days will take place in May 2014 all over Austria. www.architekturtage.at

Georg Pendl, President, Chamber of Architects and Chartered Engineering Consultants www.pendlarchitects.at www.arching.at

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Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Center.

Photo, left: Fresh Media FZ LLC Photos, below: Mrs Antje Hanebeck

Architecture and sustainability The Chalabi architects’expertise Thinking of sustainability in architecture Talik and Jaafar Chalabi are household names. Working in Europe as well as in the United Arab Emirates they introduce environmental friendly construction into an architecture that orientates towards the context.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN

The brothers Talik and Jaafar Chalabi have their roots in Bagdad, Iraq, but have been living in Vienna since 1978 where both studied architecture at TU Vienna. Talik Chalabi afterwards achieved a postgraduate master’s at Harvard University, his brother Jaafar at the Michigan State University.

Since they are two brother designers, they do not have one architectural philosophy.

“To use a metaphor, we are rather two foxes who are inspired by many architectural precedents than two hedgehogs who adhere to one big idea,” says Talik Chalabi.

What unites them is the idea to“create dynamic interior spaces and a distinctive exterior”. For 20 years now Talik and Jaafar

44 | Issue 6 | August 2013

Chalabi have taken part in international architecture competitions and tenders, gaining a number of prominent commissions or were at least finalists.

Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Center – a prestigious project One of their more recent projects is the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Center (SZDLC), Al Ain, in the United Arab Emirates, approximately a two hour drive from Abu Dhabi.“The building functions as an educational museum as well as a research centre for desert and environment related issues,” explains Talik Chalabi. “Coming from the two metropolitan coastal cities,

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture Guide Austria

Darmstadtium.

Photos: Roland Halbe

Abu Dhabi or Dubai, one is struck by Al Ain as a city of many oases – hence the city’s name – developed at the foot of a massive mountain ridge which includes the 1000 metre UAE’s highest peak – Jebel Hafeet.”

This spectacular backdrop was the first inspiration for the design,“while the second inspirational moment was when we noticed a lizard escaping to its burrow as we got closer to it.”Twelve international participants took part in a competition; in the end Chalabi architects were chosen to build the centre as lead architects.

The centre is an impressive construction, which integrates into the desert landscape.

“It is an accessible sculpture which is inspired by its surrounding rugged landscape.

But unlike the flat desert where one experiences only the horizontal flat planes the building offers an array of experiences in the vertical axis.” The building structure winds in a spiral around a central courtyard to a high point from where visitors have a gorgeous view over the safari park and towards the mountain ridge. In the other direction the building spirals under the surface “around a funnel-like inverted courtyard space evoking the experience of

geological layers and underground water sources.”At least a quarter of the building therefore is subterranean but has daylight lighting none the less.

Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Center focuses on sustainable architecture for example taking measures to save energy and reduce water consumption. Furthermore it was built with local and recycled materials.

Darmstadtium – a sustainable conference centre Another project of sustainable architecture is situated in the German town of Darmstadt, the Darmstadtium. The Chalabi brothers were chosen from 164 contestants in a European wide process since, at about 70 million Euros, their construction costs were the lowest.Today the Darmstadtium is an architectural milestone and distinctive building in town. It was awarded the DGNB silver certificate for being functional and sustainable at once.

Situated next to the university campus in the city centre and in the direct neighbourhood of the castle,“the Science and Conference Centre integrates the various cam-

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture Guide Austria

pus paths and urban vistas of its context,” explains Talik Chalabi. The building therefore links the city centre with the university buildings.The complex is structured in several compact parts, in the western area the two storey seminar building and the small hall frame the inner foyer. In the eastern part, various foyer areas frame the big congress hall. “The main congress hall is designed as a multi-purpose hall which is capable of being subdivided into two or three halls if required.”

To guarantee the building’s sustainability the architects used energy saving materials for example in the glazing, as well as fast growing raw materials like bamboo for the

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wall cladding and the floors. For heating and energy the building uses renewable energy such as photovoltaics and a pellet oven. An oblique glass funnel allows natural lighting even in the subterranean garage.

One speciality of the Darmstadtium is that because of monument protection parts of the Middle Age city wall from the 14th century were integrated into the building.

Gebietsbauamt Korneuburg – architecture for administration Talik and Jaafar Chalabi constructed the administration building Gebietsbauamt in Korneuburg in Lower-Austria as well, with

a low cost at 2 million Euros but with high functionality. “The office building is an extension to a campus-like cluster of three storey high buildings from the 1970s.”

What makes the building different from others is not only its architectural value but the fact that the building is constructed as a low energy house as well. “The new building creates an entrance plaza and a gate situation to the building, the adjacent park and the administrative campus.” www.chalabi.at

Gebietsbaumamt Korneuburg.

Photos: Rupert Steiner

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querkraft Memorable architecture for museums and houses To put querkraft’s architecture into a few words: Powerful, simple, memorable and alive. The Vienna-based architects build houses and offices as well as museums, one of which has already been declared part of the Austrian cultural heritage.

Below: Museum Liaunig. Photo: Pawel Ulatowski Adidas Brand Center. Photo: Gerhard Hagen ACW office building. Photo: Manfred Seidl

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN

Three architects founded querkraft in 1998: Jakob Dunkl, Gert Erhartt und Peter Sapp.

Situated in the Austrian capital Vienna, approximately 30 employees work for and with them today.“When we founded our architectural office in 1998 we had three aims: First humanity, secondly building culture and third to earn money. In that exact order. Today we have the feeling everything is moving in the right direction,”says Jakob Dunkl.

Today, in 2013, the architects celebrate their 15th anniversary. “We are building according to human needs. We do not only do our best for our clients but also for those who will later live in those buildings,”says Gerd Erhartt to explain their philosophy. “We admire Le Corbusier – he was innovative and poetic,”adds his colleague Peter Sapp.

Other works taken as paragons in practice are those of Lacaton Vasall, MVRDV, BIG, Sanaa or Herzog & de Meuron. Sapp describes querkraft’s own style as surprising.

“We were told our work is powerful, simple, memorable and alive.”

In 2013 querkraft won the state prize for architecture and sustainability for their housing project U31 in Vienna. While querkraft

Above: Hoerbiger (Headquarters Vienna). Renderimg querkraft

has great expertise in constructing housing buildings they have also realized museums.

The most prominent example: The Museum Liaunig in the Austrian province of Kärnten. It was finished in 2008 and in 2012 was already declared a building to be preserved as a site of historic and cultural interest. At the moment the architects are planning and constructing the building’s extension.“This extension we are currently planning was already listed as worth protecting – something that has never happened before,”says Gerd Erhartt.

“We think architecture is relevant for society. Even if people are not aware of their building culture it is essential for them.That is why we do not only design new buildings but above that engage, for example, in the platform for building culture,” says Jakob Dunkl. And that is only one of the reasons to commission querkraft architects. Peter Sapp gives another: “We try to think like those who are using our buildings and try to find out how to make their lives easier, what gives them joy and fun. We create space for people’s own histories.” www.querkraft.at

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Eisl Architecture Contemporary style for the historical city of Salzburg Eisl Architecture plans, constructs and sells modern villas in the most exclusive boroughs of Salzburg, for example the Villa Gallina described below. Michael Eisl also offers modernized apartments in historical buildings, for instance the Villa Imberg, as well as top designed high-class apartments, currently in the Stadtpalais Riedenburg project.

TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: EISL ARCHITECTURE

Founder and owner of Eisl Architecture Michael Eisl has headed the firm for 14 years now. Situated in the beautiful and historical town of Salzburg Michael Eisl works closely together with his ten employees and has extended the town’s architecture with a wide range of contemporary and modern new buildings.

One of the more recent and distinctive projects of Michael Eisl is the Villa Gallina, a building surrounded by a 1550 square metres property and in the direct neighbourhood of castle Emsburg, which was built in 1619 and is situated in a broad park.

Characteristic of the Villa Gallina is a clear design vocabulary and use of forms you can find not only in the colouring but the groundplan’s structure as well.“The building has a clear, generous and open design,” says architect Michael Eisl who gave the

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395 square metres available surface an optimal structure. Throughout the building the architect worked with high quality materials such as wooden floors, stoneware base plates and aluminium-coated plates for the fronts.

The building fits into its surrounding landscape. While the northern part of the façade is closed and reserved, the building opens up towards the garden in the south-eastern part, a garden that passes over directly into

the park of castle Emsburg.This open structure finds itself in the big terrace as well which on one side leads into the living and dining area of the house and on the other side to an exclusive swimming pool. “Because of the construction of the building, the pool lies secluded and protected in the landscape,”explains Michael Eisl. An atrium in the basement gives access to the neighbouring high quality fitness and wellness areas. But the real treasure of the building lies on the upper floor where several master bedrooms including bathrooms are situated. From here the building opens up for a wide view towards the mountains, Gaisberg and Untersberg, and the old fortress Hohensalzburg.

Michael Eisl and his team do not only design new buildings but recreate old ones as well, giving them a new life and a modern

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture Guide Austria

Left: Villa Gallina Right: Hahnhof Bottom: Villa Imberg

The spacious and modern attic flat for example has a 230 square metres space and ceiling heights up to 6.30 metres. Exclusive bathrooms, high quality country house floors and natural stones make the flat a luxurious place. And: “The two terraces both offer a stunning view towards the Untersberg mountain,”says Michael Eisl.

Another example of Eisl’s work is the revitalising of the Gründerzeit Villa Imberg, again combining an historical object with contemporary elements. Build in 1899 Michael Eisl and his team carefully adjusted the villa to modern times, renovating the wood parquet in the living- and bedrooms as well as the wooden double doors. Early in the renovation process during the structural survey the team discovered valuable art nouveau paintings that were made during the time of the villa’s construction. It was a heavy but rewarding task to bring these paintings to life again and conserving them for generations to come. style. One example is situated next to the above-mentioned Villa Gallina: the old manor house Hahnhof in Morzg, which was built in 1554 and renovated according to plans of Eisl Architecture. Architect Michael Eisl and his team have created a visible connection between historical building stock and contemporary architecture including new exclusive lofts as well as an underground garage, generous gardens and open spaces.

In the attic the old roof structure was conserved as well and is now a visible part of the attic flat. The building was completely reroofed. And that was only part of the modernization that was taking place. New room ventilation was installed as well as modern frameless glass windows in the bathrooms.

An elevator has been added to the representative stairwell to make the building accessible for disabled and elderly people.

More information about Eisl Architecture’s completed and current projects are displayed on the website www.eisl-architektur.at

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be baumschlager eberle Cultural identification through architecture They are few but crucial aspects which fundamentally shape be baumschlager eberle’s approach to architecture. To improve and optimise existing living conditions is one of them. Such is an understanding of consistency that is more than ecological sustainability. Last but not least, the focus is on combining the building’s straightforward utility values with its particular cultural position.

TEXT: FRANZISKA NOESSIG

“Architecture first of all stands, still stands in over 100 years’ time, but it does not stand still.” Dietmar Eberle's close-to philosophical definition offers an oxymoronic moment of bewildered clarity which is worth pondering on.“Architecture's immovable quality should, however, not at all be considered a sign of boredom,” be baumschlager eberle’s mastermind and founder adds.

With over 300 projects carried out up to this day, Austrian-originated be baumschlager eberle is one of the very successful international architecture offices. A list of representative, recently accomplished projects includes, amongst others, the hos-

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pital complex in Kortrijk, Belgium, Vodafone’s Nederland Headquarters in Amsterdam, Geneva’s WHO/UNAIDS building, and skyscrapers in Peking. Business was established in 1985, and shortly after that the option of intervening with greater projects more effectively in urban as well as rural areas very much appealed to the office. Thus, be baumschlager eberle expanded its planning interests, from family detached homes and building co-operatives to bigger housing complexes, commercial and office buildings.

Today, the be baumschlager eberle group is a network of ten autonomous offices in

various areas in Europe and Asia.These local offices, be they in Hamburg or Hanoi, Paris or Hong Kong, support the network in understanding each individual region's cultural context while at the same time managing to act according to their clients’ specific wishes.

With regard to their worldwide appearance, the company has successfully adapted the strategy “think global, act local”according to which knowledge and expertise are regularly updated at each of the group's offices.

Every single office holds the entire group's knowledge which thus can be easily accessed and exchanged at any other spot at any time.

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture Guide Austria

Left: Check-in 3, Vienna International Airport. Photo: Werner Huthmacher Right, from top to bottom: e-science lab ETH, Zürich. Photos: Eduard Hueber Nordwesthaus, Fußach, Austria. Photo: Eduard Hueber Villa D., Lochau, Austria. Photo: Eduard Hueber Villa K., Switzerland. Photo: Roland Halbe

should always create identification with and for the location, not for the architect,” Tim-Philipp Brendel, CEO of be vienna, points out. Referred to with slight understatement as nothing but‘covers’, these architectures are to be interpreted as metaphors which will help establish their own necessary social and emotional acceptance by users and passers-by, who are especially the greatest number of architecture consumers.

As Gerd Jäger of be berlin clarifies, “Our offices avoid exaggerated functional programmes which would be obsolete as of tomorrow.” What is required instead is a thorough analysis of each location in order to achieve the best possible fit for any new building.

As for their actual designs of buildings and architectural solutions, be baumschlager eberle develop and create space for people’s direct interaction and acknowledgment on various levels: ecologically and economically, as well as through its social, cultural and aesthetic values. Only by this public acceptance and approval, Christian Tabernigg, CEO of be vaduz, states, will architectures “live” longer and be sustainable in ways other than their mere material meaning.

The material mainly used to take the group’s designs from paper to pavement is concrete, depending on the where it is built.

A variety of glass and wood is also part of the designs, as are some natural stones and bricks. In this way, be baumschlager eberle sees it as their responsibility to design for civilisation's future and present.

Still, the group’s overall aesthetic principles remain relevant. “New buildings

Reduction is another of be baumschlager eberle's specific characteristics. It is the art of letting go, carving out the essential from the yet undefined mass and avoiding superficial gestures and images. This way, a different type of architecture is created which will exceed time-confined trends in building materials and visuals. Sabrina Contratto Ménard, CEO of be zürich mentions that“in the long-run, the reduction of formal attitudes will also pay off aesthetically. Because in 20 years’time, people will still be looking at be baumschlager eberle's buildings, and nobody will be thinking,‘Ah, how typically nineties!’”

With their eye also devoted to interior design, be baumschlager eberle sees into defining as well as opening up barriers in the newly created space. As a result, users of the buildings and passers-by will be able to perceive sequences of smooth transition between stillness and movement. The effect of this is almost poetic, Elmar Hasler, CEO of be st.gallen says: “what becomes visible is the unspoken within the art of construction.” www.baumschlager-eberle.com

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture Guide Austria

The Taubenmarkt Arkade in Linz

Team M Architects Responsibility for time, space and people Over 40 years, the award winning Team M Architects has developed an impressive portfolio of over 1,000 construction projects ranging from functional corporate architecture, large spa resorts, municipal buildings, modern schools and innovative housing estates.

“Our architecture combines vision with competence in harmony with people’s needs,”explains Wolfgang Steinlechner, the owner and leading architect at Team M. “Architecture is not about decorating our surroundings with meaningless building shells. We have a responsibility towards the individual and that is why at the heart of our work are always the people.” Team M approaches every architectural task with thorough regional planning before addressing the required inner functionality of the building. The appearance of the outer shell of the building is designed to reflect its functionality and the meaning it has for people. Accordingly, there are no readymade solutions for the architects at Team M,

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every project is seen as an individual task.

Since 1973, when three young architects joined forces to establish Team M in Linz, this successful philosophy has been at the core of their work. Wolfgang Steinlechner is one of the founding architects and since 1993 the sole director of the team. He remembers: “From the beginning we enjoyed great success in participating in various architectural contests. In 1976, we won the contest for a large leisure complex with an ice rink and outdoor and indoor pools (“Parkbad Linz”) which was our first large scale project and a milestone in the development of our company.” Seventeen years later, the unique concept of Austria’s oldest and largest city centre shopping arcade, the

Parkbad Linz

TEXT: CODELIA MAKARTSEV | PHOTOS: TEAM M ARCHITECTS

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Right: Therme Geinberg Spa Resort

FMT Office

Today, with 17 highly qualified employees Team M is one of Austria’s most creative and well-established architectural offices.

They are striving to set new standards, and the company portfolio features numerous impressive constructions, especially in the leisure sector and corporate architecture.

One of their most prominent projects is the sophisticated SPA resort Geinberg, Upper Austria’s largest SPA complex. The architecture of this exclusive thermal spa with a luxury hotel, sauna and wellness world, health centre, conference facilities and gym is discreetly embedded in the surrounding landscape. Its unassuming timeless appearance owing to natural materials like wood, water and soil combined with luxurious elegance provides the right ambience for an indulgent holiday feeling. Right from the start possible future expansions were cleverly taken into consideration.Today, after the fifth successful extension, the addition of an exclusive oriental SPA and 21

private suites with whirlpool and sauna, SPA resort Geinberg still creates the appearance that it was made all of a piece.

“The SPA resort Geinberg is not only one of the most important projects for our company, it has a great impact on the economic development of the whole region,”says Wolfgang Steinlechner. Another of Team M’s benchmark projects in the leisure sector is the SPA Hotel Bründl. It embodies a successful symbiosis between contemporary architecture and stylish design, combining the technical possibilities of today and the heritage of the past. The building is defined by its terracelike integration of the sloping landscape, therefore it was given the project name “three dimensional earthline”. The hotel’s 88 rooms are located in two axes of the building which bend and rotate along the vertical 0-line and which are connected through a three storey high hall. Although retaining the repetitiveness of hotel rooms, the architects made sure to include special design features for an individual touch. Not to mention the extraordinary view over the Austrian landscape the guests enjoy from the panorama window in every room.

In November 2008,Team M won the contest for the construction of the new head office for the FMT Group, a leading European service provider for the installation and servicing of industrial plants.“In April 2009, we had already started to build the project.

This was only possible because we had a very close and efficient cooperation with our client,”explains Wolfgang Steinlechner.

For FMT it was crucial that the new head office reflects the company’s core values, quality, reliability and transparency. The second main issue was functionality as the site contains office building, workshops, assembly halls and an area for the manipulation of containers for world-wide industrial assemblies. Team M’s solution is a 200 metres long ‘lifeline’ along the road, connecting the offices with all the operational areas,

thus creating the undisturbed working environment for the offices whilst ensuring the all important easy access for lorries and the smooth operation at workshops and assembly halls. Again, the architects’ foresighted planning allows a 100% extension of the premises at any time in the future. www.team-m.at

SPA Hotel Bründl

Taubenmarkt Arkade in Linz, won Team M the prestigious Upper Austrian National Culture Prize For Architecture. The arcade is a masterpiece of contemporary urban architecture, a beautiful and elegant blend of retail, gastronomy, residential and office units designed to boost business in the heart of the old town of Linz. The jury praised the project for its long-term positive effects on the city structure and its internationally recognized exemplary character.

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Architecture Guide Austria Hotel Schwarzler

Dorner\Matt Architekten Where design meets existential needs, social responsibility and locality The architecture firm Dorner\Matt Architekten of Bregenz, Austria, believes in the high quality of its region – and thus remains authentic whilst simultaneously maintaining the area’s local identity.

Dorner\Matt Architekten Founded in 2000 by Markus Dorner and Christian Matt Today the firm consists of nine employees Several architecture awards, for example the “International Architecture Award for 2009” for the project “House of the Generations” in Götzis

TEXT: LYDIA EVERS | PHOTOS: © STUDIO FASCHING BREGENZ

Vorarlberg, the westernmost federal state of Austria, and its capital Bregenz have over the last century become internationally known for ascribing great significance to architecture. And not just any architecture: the region is known for attaching great importance to craftsmanship and expertise with materials. Furthermore high quality, accessibility to the designs and the use of local resources play a crucial role. “Vorarlberg is an architecture brand far beyond its borders,” says Christian Matt, one of the two founders of Dorner\Matt Architekten.

Founded in 2000, the architectural office located in the heart of Bregenz is one of those firms that continue and evolve the region’s renowned architectural style.

to housing designs we create so-called‘supervisable housing’ that maintains older people’s self-determination in contrast to immediately living in a nursing home,” Matt explains. A current project for instance thus combines the design of a passive house (environment-friendly due to its low energy consumption) with appropriate integrated features such as individual apartments, a café, a pharmacy and a medical practice.

In harmony with nature

Physical and social space

The use of local resources not only supports the local economy, but also integrates Dorner\Matt-designs in the Vorarlberg landscape and nature. A wonderful example is the reconstruction of the Hotel Schwärzler in Bregenz, which the firm fin-

Christian Matt and his business partner Markus Dorner believe that modern architecture is more than just the confrontation with physical space. For them, social space is equally important in every project. Demographic, environmental and other changes always influence architectural decisions. “Today people are growing older, influencing the everyday life of families and communities. By adding certain functions

Architects Markus Dorner and Christian Matt. © G. Klocker

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ished in May 2013. The cowhide-covered reception desk in combination with wooden floors (made from local oak trees), red woollen and felt accessories on the walls and floors as well as self-designed furniture give visitors an instant impression of Bregenz and its surroundings. Other features that underline the region are, for instance, leather armchairs made in the local tannery or the granular floor which takes guests to the nearby riverbed of the Bregenzer Ache.

“Architecture is a process, a dialogue. It remains undecided and is incredibly dualistic,” Christian Matt concludes.There is thus no Dorner\Matt-brand as such, but every design is a prototype taking into account existential needs, social responsibility and locality. The firm’s foreseeing designs and choices of material contribute to maintaining the region’s authenticity and regional character, and help to keep up Vorarlberg’s international reputation when it comes to architecture. www.dorner-matt.at

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Interior design with innovation Main image: Sporthotel Silvretta Montafon Reception. © Gmeiner From top to bottom: Hoagascht room. © Algo Fire&Ice. © Bensen Hoagascht bath. © Algo

Christian Stranger. © Hausrugger Photography

“Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come.” This quote from Victor Hugo has ever served Innenarchitektur Stranger as a source of inspiration and thus perfectly describes the interior design firm’s innovative philosophy and work. For founder Christian Stranger interior design equals passion and is very closely linked with the human senses: “It is about absorbing a room, creating atmospheres and pronouncing the unexpected.

Innovative ideas, harmonious colour concepts and perfect lighting are the trademarks of Innenarchitektur Stranger. With its clear and forward-thinking line, the interior design firm from Altenmarkt/Zauchensee, Austria, offers high quality designs that are always one step ahead.

TEXT: LYDIA EVERS

Interior design has to awaken the senses by guiding light, opening eyes, inspiring thoughts and feeling life.”

Innenarchitektur Stranger was founded in 1999 in Altenmarkt/Zauchensee (around 80 kilometres south-east from Salzburg, Austria) and today consists of five highly qualified designers including Mr. Stranger himself. With a professional background as a master carpenter, the interior designer offers a great knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of materials, an understanding of the interplay of colours and he always works with love and attention to detail.

His enterprise has specialised in the hotel and gastronomy industry, houses, rooms, furniture and general design. It does not focus on modern or traditional design, but is able to create a suitable style for any venue.

For the interior of the bar and lounge Fire&Ice in Flachau for example, Innenarchitektur Stranger has combined modern furnishing with bright colours giving the venue a trendy flair. By contrast, the Appartments Hoagascht in Flachau give off a

homey and regional atmosphere through the company’s skilful use of wood and warm light.“Our goal is to make people become one with the room that surrounds them.They should enjoy the ambiance and wish to come back,”the designer explains.

All new in 2013 is an innovation platform which Innenarchitektur Stranger has created with 14.40, a firm that Christian Stranger founded with people from different professional groups. This way he and his team are now able to not only create visionary design concepts but also recognise even earlier when the time of a new idea has come. innenarchitektur-stranger.at www.1440.at Innenarchitektur Stranger Founded in 1999 by Christian Stranger Located in Altenmarkt/Zauchensee, Austria Today: team of five interior designers Since 2013: Cooperation with innovation firm 14.40

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Discover Germany | Culture | Barbara Geier

Simply wunderbar A Strandkorb and Capri Sonne Zitrone It was a long wait. But here we are. Summer. I’ve finally decided that it might actually be worthwhile after all to change the wardrobe order from winter to summer and move those tees from back to front row. Let’s just hope that by the time you’re reading this I haven’t had to chuck them back again. In any case, we’re thinking sun, we’re thinking holidays, we’re thinking beach!

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.

TEXT: BARBARA GEIER

Which takes me back to childhood days when – let’s face it – summers were always hot and always very long. I remember wonderful holidays in northern Germany on a lovely island called Juist which is one of the seven inhabited East Frisian islands, beloved by German families and little known by international visitors. I remember horse-drawn carriages (it’s car-free!), milk rice with cinnamon, long mudflat walks, getting out on boats to watch seals and of course, playing all day long on the beach, always supported by Capri Sonne Zitrone (capri sun lemon drink) – never anything else, always lemon.

2

Best of all, dear British readers, no towel wars in sight. Would you believe it, Germans can go on holidays without getting up at daybreak in order to secure the best places by way of strategically placed towels.

North Sea as well as Baltic Sea beaches are all about the Strandkorb, literally ‘beach baskets’. These specially designed chairs for use on the beach and to protect from sun, wind, rain and sand may well be the best German invention ever. A certain Wilhelm Bartelmann, a basket maker in Rostock, is said to have built the first one in 1882. As you’d expect given their provenance, those beach chairs are super efficient

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and provide a veritable home from home by the sea. They come complete with tiltable tops, storage space below the seats, armand foot-rests and rain proof covers.

Holiday makers hire them on the beach, and I challenge you to find a German photo album that hasn’t somewhere a picture of a family sitting in a Strandkorb with some kids grinning and happily licking their ice-cream. Or sucking on their Capri Sun. So, if you’re still undecided about summer holidays, why not be adventurous and do it German style on a German beach up north? Your very own Strandkorb is waiting for you. And trust me, you’ll get attached to it.

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Special Theme

City Special

Hannover

Hannover

City of contrasts Hannover as the Capital of Lower Saxony is the partner city of Bristol and lies in the North of Germany. Often underestimated, the city has much more to offer than one might guess at first sight.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: ©HANNOVER MARKETING UND TOURISMUS GMBH

With just about half a million inhabitants Hannover is a rather cosy town with many attractions within walking distance. Landmark sites include the Old Town Hall, the New Town Hall, the Marktkirche [market church], the neo-classical opera house and the splendid Herrenhausen Gardens located at the newly reconstructed Herrenhausen Castle. Visitors are always impressed by the beauty of the historic city centre with its numerous timber framed buildings, although these had to be rebuilt because of their complete destruction during the Second World War. The River Leine runs straight through the town and the Lake Maschsee adds an idyllic touch to the city landscape. Exploring Hannover is easy as a red line is painted on the pavements which literally leads visitors to the local highlights.

Hannover is an important business hub and renowned for being home to the

largest trade fair grounds in the world.

Every year 3 million visitors come from all over the world to attend the important trade shows such as the Hannover Fair or the IAA Commercial Vehicles exhibitions and of course the world leading CeBIT computer fair. Tragically Heinz Nixdorf, founder of what has grown into a digital empire bearing his last name, died of a heart attack while visiting the CeBIT computer fair in 1986 – a time when the internet had just evolved. Today the CeBIT is world's largest trade fair showcasing digital IT and telecommunications solutions for home and work environments and Heinz Nixdorf would be proud of how his visions have developed.

Hannoverians are proud of their local soccer team Hannover 96, which is one of the oldest football clubs in Germany. Not only sports, but also the arts play a vital role in the city of Hannover. Famous French artist Niki de Saint Phalle loved the north German city and many of her beautiful sculptures are still scattered around town.

Hannover and its inhabitants certainly know how to enjoy life. A good example is the annual Oktoberfest starting 27 September, which is considered to be the second largest Oktoberfest in the world and where everyone joins in to celebrate good German beer (there are plenty of breweries in and around Hannover), pretzels and pork knuckles to the sound of the oompah band.

© HMTGMartin Kirchner

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Hannover A welcoming city full of surprises The green capital of Lower Saxony is home to half a million people and hosts international trade fairs as well as the world’s biggest Marksmen’s Fair. With festivals throughout the year, the unforgettable zoo, and well-renowned theatres and museums Hannover is a vibrant city that wins over all visitors with its diversity and love for detail!

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: HMTG

One of Hannover’s charming special features is its big city lake right in the centre!

This beautiful man-made lake called Maschsee is a true haven of rest and the number one destination for a peaceful Sunday stroll. Surrounded by trees it is ideal for jogging and various water sports! Cafes, restaurants and beer gardens make the Maschsee a unique social meeting point where visitors can rent a pedal boat or enjoy a ride on the ship.Visit the sandy beach

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for swimming and with a little luck you can go ice-skating in winter.

PR spokesperson Julia Sellner says: “Hannover and its regions’ calendar is bursting with events throughout the year. Especially in summer, there is a continual stream of different events. At the world’s biggest Marksmen’s Fair tradition meets innovation whilst one of the most visited festivals in Northern Germany is the Maschsee-Lake festival.”

During the first three weeks of August the lakeside erupts into a giant party and attracts around two million people. Even more beer gardens, cocktail bars and stalls compete for space along the palm treelined waterfront whilst free concerts encourage dancing under the stars.

And why not try Hannover’s famous drink Luettje Lage.Ten shot glasses filled with ale and ten smaller glasses of schnapps, one

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | City Special Hannover

Main image: Photo: Michael Thomas Left: Maschseefest. Photos: Martin Kirchner/HMTG

holds both glasses in one hand so that the schnapps mixes steadily with the beer whilst drinking. It is a little tricky to master this art, but there will be plenty Hannoverians happy to show you how to do it!

“An absolute must-see are the famous Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, one of Europe’s most beautiful and best-preserved baroque gardens with its recently rebuilt palace,” adds Sellner. “From May to September the stunning international Fireworks Competition takes place here and the world’s top pyro-technicians fill the evening sky with explosive artworks of light and music. And during the well-loved Little Festival in the Great Garden dancers, actors and musicians perform here.” For an enchanting experience amongst fountains and statues there are special nights throughout the summer when the garden is magically illuminated and classical music takes you back to bygone eras of kings and queens.

Hannover’s unique ties to the United Kingdom are based on 123 years of being connected through one king. In 1714 Georg of Hannover became King of England, and the 300-year anniversary of this union will be celebrated in 2014 with a great exhibition.

The garden’s modern grotto lets visitors literally stand within a grand piece of contemporary art by late artist Niki de Saint Phalle, with mirrors, intense colours, mosaics and sculptures.

Also designed by the artist are the“Nanas”, three sculptures adding a splash of colour to the embankment of the river Leine, wellloved by the locals and a trademark of Han-

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | City Special Hannover

nover today. Each Saturday this is also the location of the oldest running flea market in Germany.

Sellner recommends exploring Hannover with the aid of the Red Thread painted on the pavement: “It leads right through the city centre to 36 local attractions.” She adds: “A unique vantage point is the tower of the majestic New Town Hall, which can be reached by a unique parabolic elevator and gives a breath-taking view of Hannover and its region.”From here you can clearly see the unique city forest Eilenriede (twice the size of NewYork’s central park), the zoological garden and a variety of lakes called Kiesteiche, making this the greenest city in Germany.

The scenic historic city centre is home to many beautiful listed buildings and has the impressive Market Church at its heart. In winter this area is turned into a medieval village and Christmas market!

A stone’s throw away is the grand market hall, which offers international delicacies and is a lovely place to stop for Italian cap-

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puccino and a roll with Parma ham. From there you can walk to the extensive pedestrian shopping mile, home to many modern boutiques. It leads towards the busy train station and the famous musical manhole, something you really have to see! Here you will also find the new Ernst-AugustGallery, a modern, airy shopping mall that caters to every shopper’s need. Around the corner are the opera house and the Theatre of Lower Saxony, both internationally renowned for ground-breaking performances.

Numerous museums keep art lovers, history buffs and nature enthusiasts just as happy and for the adventurous visitor or animal lover the spectacular Adventure Zoo is yet again an absolute gem. With over 3,300 animals in seven elaborately designed themed areas it is no surprise that it attracts over 1.6 million visitors each year.

Watching giraffes and hippos from a boat, the elephants and tigers in their Indian jungle palace, gorillas feeding their young on the gorilla mountain, kangaroos hopping in the outback and local animals at Meyer’s Farm, there is something for everyone.

Main image: Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen. Photo: Hassan Mahramzadeh Top: Herrenhausen Gardens / Hill Garden.

Photo: Martin Kirchner/HMTG Below: Nanas

The current highlight is the newly built Yukon Bay. The Canadian landscape features a glass walled underwater world, giving the opportunity to see polar bears, seals, sea lions and penguins under water.

A secret tip is to watch the feeding of the polar bears from down below, as they dive

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Special Theme | City Special Hannover

Left: Old Town. © Martin Kirchner/HMTG

into the water inches away from the viewing area! Yukon Bay is designed to look like a harbour with wave machines that are not only fun for the animals but enhance the feeling of being in a foreign landscape, just ten minutes away from the city centre.

Sellner also encourages exploring the outer region: “The 21 counties are closely connected through our well developed transport system. Holiday destinations in the region and event venues are always easy to reach.”

Around 25 kilometres from Hannover is the fabulous neo-gothic Marienburg Castle, dating back to the 17th century. Today it belongs to great-great-great-grandson of King George V and Queen Marie, HRH Prince Ernst August of Hannover, Duke of Brunswick and Lueneburg. The castle’s interiors greet visitors with fully furnished rooms, almost completely preserved in their original condition.

The region is also fantastic for horse-riding, not to mention that the famous breed, the Hannoverian, comes from here.

Outside the city borders is the Steinhuder Meer, a lake of 32 square kilometres and the biggest stretch of inland water in Germany’s North-West. A popular destination for a day trip to swim and enjoy the extensive Nature Reserve! Many hotels provide excellent opportunities to stay on and indulge in local fish delicacies like smoked eel. 30 kilometres south of Hannover a range of hills called Deister are ideal for hiking and cycling, and add to the region's variety.

Hannover and its region truly have a lot to offer, whatever the season! Come and enjoy this special place in the heart of Germany! www.visit-hannover.com/en www.hannover-tourismus.de www.hannover.de/urlaubsregion

The tourism centre offers: - a variety of guided tours in different languages (Hop on - Hop off bus) - accommodation and ticket services - attractive packages - guide book for the Red Threat - conference venues Email: info@hannover-tourismus.de Tel: +49 511 12345111

Above: The New Town Hall. © Martin Kirchner/HMTG Bottom left: Yukon Bay - Hannover Adventure Zoo. © Erlebnis Zoo / Hannover Below: Marienburg Castle. © Copyright EAC GmbH

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The four-star hotel has 211 rooms and 13 conference and meeting rooms, its own restaurant and a bar. Guests can also spend a relaxing moment in the hotel’s sauna or swimming pool. Over summer some renovations are scheduled to take place: “Our restaurant will receive a modern look and a renovation of our complete event area will follow,”Schulze explains.

From 16/08/2013 until 31/12/2013 readers of Discover Germany get a free room upgrade when mentioning the keyword Discover Germany. Offer subject to availability. www.leonardo-hotels.com Reservations:

Leonardo Hotels in Hannover

Leonardo Hotel Hannover: +49 511 5103 0

A strategic location for business or pleasure

Leonardo Hotel Hannover Airport: +49 511 7707 0

TEXT: JESSICA RIDDER | PHOTOS: LEONARDO HOTELS

Completely free of charge, guests can also become a member of the Leonardo Advantage Club. Membership offers significant advantages such as free Internet, a free newspaper and discounts on drinks and food. “The number of members is increas-

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ing steadily. No wonder – with the great free services!” Knappert explains.The same benefits from the Leonardo Advantage Club can also be used at another Hannover based Leonardo Hotel, especially beneficial to those travelling to or from Hannover: the Leonardo Hotel Hannover Airport.

Its director, Peter Schulze says,“Of course, most guests come to our hotel because of its proximity to the airport and its easy accessibility via the motorways. However, what especially distinguishes our hotel is our very personal approach. Most airport hotels are quite anonymous. Our hotel appreciates a lot of regular guests who enjoy their visit and come back often, because although our location wouldn’t maybe normally suggest it, they are known, recognised and appreciated here.”

Leonardo Hotel Airport

Whether for business people, families, nature lovers or city visitors, all Leonardo Hotels are characterized by their attractive location and their individual regional character and design. “Our guests love the proximity to nature. Located right next to the Tiergarten, the hotel offers calm working environments as well as spaces for moments of relaxation,”Knappert says. The hotel has its own restaurant and a spa including a sauna, a steam bath and exercise machines. Each hotel room has a TV, its own bathroom and is equipped with a mini bar.

Leonardo Hotel

“What makes the Leonardo Hotel Hannover so special is certainly the amazing location right at the beautiful Tiergarten. Furthermore, the transport connection is ideal. In no time you can get to the fairground and the city center. Spacious, bright function rooms overlooking the Tiergarten provide a fantastic setting for seminars, meetings and corporate events and family celebrations. Guests often praise the personal character of our service,” says Dirk Knappert, director of Leonardo Hotel Hannover.

www.leonardo-hotels.com

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Special Theme | City Special Hannover

Grandeur and elegance in Celle Hannover’s “little sister” charms visitors with an intriguing combination of tradition and modernity TEXT: DORINA REICHHOLD | PHOTOS: CELLE TOURISM GMBH

The picturesque town of Celle is situated in Lower Saxony, about 40 km northeast of Hannover on the banks of the Aller River.

With a population of just over 70,000, it is much smaller than its neighbour to the south but is a true gem for visitors to the region.“Celle likes to see itself as the dignified sister of Hannover,”explains Marianne Krohn, head of Celle Tourism and Marketing GmbH, and because of its rich history and beauty, Celle can truly stand on its own.

The town always had close ties with the ducal House of Brunswick-Lüneburg, part of the Welf dynasty which included many German and British monarchs. The venerable Celle Castle is the oldest building in the town and one of the most beautiful of the Welf castles in Northern Germany. The four-winged building houses the Schlosstheater Celle, Germany’s oldest Baroque theatre with its own theatre company and an impressive chapel, the only one north of the Alps with a completely preserved Renaissance interior.The castle’s Residenzmuseum gives an insight into the history and tradition of the ducal House.

“The history of the Welf dynasty connects Hannover and Celle,”explains Krohn,“this will become very clear next year with a joint exhibition of the two cities, named When the Royals came from Hannover. Celle is also one of the most outstanding members of the German Timber-Frame Road, its lovely old town centre displaying more than 400 timber-framed houses from different centuries.

A lot of guests at the trade fairs in Hannover choose to stay in Celle while on business trips. Krohn sees the reason for this in the town's atmosphere: “The dignity and elegance of the town, far away from the bustle of the big cities and the mix of tradition and modern life.” Because of the excellent infrastructure, it takes visitors less than 45 minutes to travel from the centre of Hannover to Celle where they can visit one of the various museums, stroll through the French Garden, south of the old town, or through the Castle Park which surrounds the ducal castle. Another highlight of Celle's architecture and an example of the town's preservation of customs is the town church St. Marien. From the top of the

Top: Celle’s Castle Chapel Right, from top to botom: Museum Cafe Zöllnerstraße Celle Christmas Market

tower, a Turmbläser, a tower trumpeter, follows an old tradition and performs a fanfare twice a day in each direction, dressed in a traditional outfit, keeping Celle’s venerable customs and history alive. www.celle-tourismus.de

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Left: © Chillon Castle Foundation.

Photo: E. Heuberger Middle: Castello di Sasso, Corbaro Below: Castello di Sasso, Corbaro Castello di Montebello

Special Theme

Beautiful Castles of Switzerland

Visit the stunning castles of Switzerland

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: © BELLINZONA TURISMO

Switzerland is famous for many things such as snow-capped mountains, fine cheese or chocolates and precise watches. Most people instantly associate Switzerland with great ski slopes, beautiful hiking trails or picturesque lakes. But within this beautiful country’s breath-taking landscape lies a different kind of temptation. Magnificent castles, impressive fortresses and ruins dating back as far as the Bronze Age have been carefully preserved or reconstructed. The famous three Castelli di Bellinzona – Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Cor-

baro – are classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Other famous castles include the 1,000 year old picturesque Chillon castle at the shore of Lake Geneva, the castle of Gruyères, and the rather small but charming Beroldingen castle which is located on the Swiss trail near Seelisberg and has a beautiful chapel dating back to 1545.

Although some of the Swiss castles and fortresses are privately held and only available to their lucky owners, some others have been converted into hotels, museums or event locations offering a large variety of

activities throughout the year. Children especially tend to love the ancient buildings where noble knights once were fighting and pretty princesses were living.

One could spend a year just travelling from one castle to the next admiring the old walls bursting with history. Discover Germany presents some of the most charismatic castles which are well worth a visit.Take a look at Castle Wildegg which dates back to the early 13th century or Castle Lenzburg, where Fauchi the castle dragon is still alive.

The historic museum Thurgau is part of the castle Frauenfeld and holds the largest number of preserved artefacts from the nunneries of the Lake Constance region. In Chateau de Valangin monsters are warmly welcome and in Wartegg castle cosy guest rooms are available for an unforgettable overnight stay.Visiting a Swiss castle brings cultural knowledge and fun for the whole family. If you are lucky you may even experience one of the authentic medieval festivals scheduled over the summer months.

Left: Castelgrande Bellinzona

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Special Theme | Beautiful Castles of Switzerland Left: Schloss Frauenfeld in the unique cultural environment of Lake Constance, with its mighty military tower from the 13th century, is the landmark of the city.

sions were the ideal occasions to do that,” Gabriele Keck points out.

Visitors can climb up the castle’s fortified tower from the 13th century and enjoy the panoramic view over the whole city. “It’s also a geological highlight. The tower’s massive stones, some weigh over 300 kilogrammes, found their way to Frauenfeld through the movements of glaciers,”as the director explains.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 14:00 to 17:00 and entry is free.

Guided tours are available on request. www.historisches-museum.tg.ch From top to bottom:

Relive history in the Historical Museum Thurgau

The armoury, once cellar of the 1235 built palace, featuring weapons from different centuries.

The mitre from the monastery of Kreuzlingen, after 1414. Its origin stands in connection with Pope John XXIII and the Council of Constance (1414-1418).

Altarpiece from the Cistercian convent of Feldbach near Steckborn, about 1450.

In the heart of northeastern Switzerland lies a very special cultural highlight. The Historical Museum Thurgau in Schloss Frauenfeld opened in 1960 and allows visitors to truly experience the region’s rich history with an impressive art collection gathered from the region’s churches, monasteries and convents.

TEXT: JULIEN RATH | PHOTOS: HISTORICAL MUSEUM THURGAU

A cultural voyage of discovery spanning from the medieval era to today awaits visitors, and the Historical Museum Thurgau in Schloss Frauenfeld is proud to be the museum to exhibit the largest number of preserved artefacts from the convents of the Lake Constance region. “In Schloss Frauenfeld history is relived. Furniture from different centuries that is worthy of being called art and the wall paintings inside the castle vividly show how the nobility used to live in the canton of Thurgau,”explains director of the museum Gabriele Keck. Moving to the other rooms of the castle visitors can get a feeling of what it would have been like to live in the Middle Ages. The vaulted cellar of the castle houses the armoury and knights’rooms which still today resonate of the ancient heroes.

Besides being able to discover the history of daily life in the canton, guests may visit the treasure chamber where a number of goldsmiths’works from different periods of the Middle Ages are displayed, such as the fascinating mitre – a traditional headgear of bishops and abbots in the Christian church. Its origin is connected with the Council of Constance (1414-1418). Before arriving at Constance, Pope John XXIII was host in the nearby monastery of Kreuzlingen. As a gift Pope John XXIII granted the monastery's abbot the privilege to wear a mitre. “Even today the unique mitre made of gold, pearls and enamel shines in the Historical Museum Thurgau. During the Council of Constance the Abbot Erhard Lind was able to present the mitre as a valuable status symbol. Mass and proces-

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Beautiful Castles of Switzerland

Castle Wildegg

History on the Hill Overlooking the Swiss village “Moeriken Wildegg”, Castle Wildegg secured a prime location since the early 13th century. The original castle from that time was rebuilt and remodeled as a live-in baroque style castle in the late 17th century.

TEXT: LEONIE PUSCHER | PHOTOS: PASCAL MEIER

After centuries of being privately owned, the castle has been managed by the Kanton (region) Aargau since 2011. Although inhabited by several owners over the decades and centuries, it was owned by the Family Effinger for a remarkable 11 generations, from as early as 1500. The Family actively ruled the area until the late 1700s. Many belongings and treasures are now exhibited in the castle’s own museum.

“A tour through the historical residence will lead through the 37 living- and working rooms that reflect the high cultural standards as well as taste of the family,” says Thomas Rorato, curator of the historic residence. Walking through the 3,300 square metres of garden space will remind visitors of the traditional use of land people valued during the 18th century – a combination of the useful and the beautiful.“The

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garden with its romantic pavilions served as a resource for farm vegetables but also as a place of leisure for the lords of the castle as well as their guests.” Today, everyone is invited to indulge in the outdoor space of Castle Wildegg and wander around rare plants, flowers and berries. “With its preserved concept of combining the castle, the variety of gardens, forest, farm and subsidiary buildings, Castle Wildegg is one of a kind in Switzerland”.

When visiting the Castle, boredom is probably the only thing that can’t be found.

“The museum Aargau offers an extensive programme for adults, children and groups, including holiday specials and history lessons for school classes.”Do not to be fooled by the sound of ‘history lesson’, though.

Through guides in traditional robes, visitors will find out about the Family Effinger, ex-

periencing history in the form of role-play and authentic looking servants.

Adventurers can enjoy the‘Castle Foxtrail’, an exciting scavenger hunt that leads visitors through the castle and its surroundings. “The foxtrail is an interactive way to explore the unseen; fun for visitors of every age,”says Thomas Rorato. www.schlosswildegg.ch

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Beautiful Castles of Switzerland

Lenzburg The castle of knights and dragons Entering the castle by walking over a drawbridge – it can’t be more traditional than this. Passing through the sturdy wooden doors, visitors will find themselves in the Castle’s courtyard, a place dating back 1,000 years.

TEXT: LEONIE PUSCHER | PHOTOS: PASCAL MEIER

With about 80,000 visitors per year, Castle Lenzburg is a popular tourist attraction, found on a hill 504 metres above the historic town of Lenzburg in Switzerland. The castle is one of the oldest in the country and is surrounded by panoramic viewpoints from various hills. It is one of the Aargau region’s most beautiful historic places and unique in its surprising stories and tours.

The castle was built by the Counts of Lenzburg in the early 12th century. Since then it has been owned by numerous families, the state, as well as rich Americans. In 1956 the castle was made publicly accessible, offering exciting tours into the past.

How to become a real knight, the saga of “Fauchi”the castle dragon, and secret corners are only a few of the attractions.

The castle museum holds a variety of objects from the traditional life within these historic walls. A mixture of Audio sequences and shadow plays in the newly opened exhibition “Knighthood and nobility” tell the stories of residents of the castle from the 12th until the 20th century.

The different guided tours available make a visit to Castle Lenzburg a great experience for old and young.“Families especially enjoy the children’s museum, the castle dragon with a dedicated ‘dragon research station’, and the history studio,” says Thomas Rorato, the curator.

ago will have a rare opportunity at Castle Lenzburg to find out. “The castle holds it own two authentic cells within the walls, including instruments of torture.These portray the methods used during the 17th century which delinquent citizens had to face.”

Real explorers can try to decode original carvings from prisoners in the cells.

To forget about villains and everything else that might be a worry, a step into the castle’s rose garden or simply relaxing in the garden café will do the trick. www.schloss-lenzburg.ch

Those who wonder how law-breaking citizens were dealt with hundreds of years

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Beautiful Castles of Switzerland

Nature, historic charm and a heart-felt welcome!

The green hotel Wartegg Castle nestles between the idyllic lake Bodensee and the Appenzeller Mountains in Switzerland. It certainly is an absolute haven of rest and a true gem for organic food!

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: CASTLE WARTEGG CULINARY DELIGHT

Simple, authentic and with a very personal service! That describes green hotel Wartegg Castle best. It is the first Swiss Historic Hotel in the Eastern part of Switzerland and its historic building was first mentioned over 450 years ago. Since 1994 it has been owned by the Mijnssen Family, and their philosophy focuses on the essential and simple.

Owner Christoph Mijnssen explains: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It all started when we decided to take the initiative to save the wild-romantic English Park, a forgotten gem, and the castle that looked like it belonged to Sleeping Beauty. In order to make it accessible to the public it made great sense to open a hotel. It was meant to be embedded gently into the already existing very lively atmosphere here.That is why

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the surrounding nature was always the pivotal point for planning.â&#x20AC;?

Economically the hotel and its guests assure the on-going maintenance of the historic building, the park and castle grounds.

This approach goes hand in hand with the overall organic concept of the hotel, where sustainability, regional supply and organic products play major roles.The Biohotel and Bio-Bud certificates prove that very strict guidelines are followed in order to be genuinely organic.

The hotel has been refurbished to accommodate modern lifestyles while keeping an eye on the original and emphasizing what treasures were already there. One of those treasures is what can be called the most

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beautiful bathtub in Switzerland! The ovalshaped Turquoise Bath, made in 1928, is a great way to start the day and a highlight not to be missed. Followed by a visit to the Sauna or the bubble jet lounger, guests can then relax in cosy dressing gowns on the terrace.

The interiors of the rooms are designed with elegant simplicity, using high-quality organic materials. Anything superfluous distracts from the architecture and hence modern technology is used sparsely. Instead of standard hotel room items such as TV and minibar, there is a switch to reduce possible electrosmog. The rooms have internet connections (LAN) and hi-fi systems with iPod-dock, which provide brilliant sound.

At the hotel’s Fumoir guests can indulge in quality cigars and the charming tea kitchen is open 24 hours. There is a library as well as a reading room and for absolute calm, guests can relax in the quiet room.

The English Park is part of the national heritage and was created in 1860. It excites nature and garden enthusiasts alike. Approximately 130,000 square metres invite visitors to just stroll around or to learn more about the park during a guided tour at weekends.“You could say that the English Park with the nearby Bodensee is the green lung of the castle, and the castle on the

other hand is the heart of the park. Together they build a unique atmosphere and a different feeling of time,”Mijnssen adds.

The hotel’s own restaurant shows again that organic is not some kind of fancy label for the hotel but a lifestyle.The restaurant’s slow food is the answer for those of us who seek a sensual dining experience instead of a quick meal. Fresh produce from the castle’s biodynamic garden and local organic providers as well as meals prepared with seasonal ingredients guarantees high quality. Not to mention that the creative team knows how to be inspired and keeps bringing guests into sensational culinary adventures.

The hotel is a great place to spend family holidays with a playground and a spacious playroom. And what child does not dream of exploring a real castle? At this hotel, they can do just that! For couples, the castle offers the perfect setting for some romantic days far away from reality. With wellness, candlelight dinner and champagne to create the perfect mood, it is like a fairy tale come true!

In three conference rooms of up to 60 square meters, seminars and business meetings can benefit from Castle Wartegg’s calm ambience and inspiring flair. Modern conference technology is provided. And for culture lovers, this place is simply the right choice. For example, the castle is not only close to the well-renowned Theatre Festival

in Bregenz but also hosts its own concerts in a historic atmosphere. Music lovers as well as practising musicians are very welcome. It almost goes without saying that any kind of event, be it private or business, can be celebrated at Wartegg Castle.

All in all, green hotel Wartegg Castle offers nature-conscious sustainability with that little bit of luxury we all want every now and then. Wartegg Castle shows you really can have it all. www.wartegg.ch

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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Beautiful Castles of Switzerland

Meet the monsters at Chateau de Valangin

Medieval flair at its best Nestled In the Swiss mountains high above the Neuchâtel Lake in the district of Valde-Ruz, lies the Chateau de Valangin, which is classified as a heritage site of national significance. The setting couldn’t be more unique as the medieval fortress and its surrounding haven’t changed much since the 14th century, when it was home to a powerful "seigneurie", that constantly opposed the lords of Neuchâtel.

TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: CHATEAU DE VALANGIN

Strolling through the garden with its large variety of wild plants, visitors get a hint of what to expect inside the castle as 32 little demons and monster stone sculptures, made by Swiss artist Gaspard Delachaux and relating to medieval times and the Renaissance, grace the landscape. More creepy creatures can be found inside the castle until 27 October. The “Congratulations! It’s a Monster”exhibition“showcases monsters in comics of the 20th century and is trying to show how our human societies express their fears and problems through the creation of fantasmatic monsters. American, European and Japanese comics such as the lab of Dr Frankenstein, the dreams of Winsor MacCay or the world of the famous aliens are on display,”as Françoise Bonnet Borel, curator of the Chateau de Valangin, explains.

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The castle’s permanent exhibition is less frightening as the Chateau de Valangin is renowned for its unrivalled collection related to lace work.“We house a very large collection of clothes, among them pieces from the 18th century, precious pieces of lace and embroidery, and materials for working textile. The opportunities for showing such a collection are rare, because of the conservation problems involved,”the curator proudly says.

But there is much more to explore in and around the ancient walls including children’s activities such as treasure hunts and birthday parties. Grown-ups are welcome to visit ever-changing original exhibitions or listen to concerts in the Knight’s Hall.

Because of its fascinating features the castle is also very popular as an event location

and countless couples have already tied the knot in the romantic medieval setting. For those visiting in September Ms Bonnet Borel has a special recommendation: “On 7 and 8 September we are hosting a medieval feast at Valangin. Organised by the castle, the festival will feature battles, theatre, craftsmen, a camp as well as many activities for little ones and grown-ups – all in truly medieval style.” www.chateau-de-valangin.ch

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Discover Germany | Hotel of the Month | Switzerland

Hotel

of the Month Switzerland Top: Hotel Albergo Gardenia From left to right: Breakfast Room Double Deluxe Room Seminar Room Bottom right: Pool

4* Haven of tranquility near Lake Lugano Now we’re talking Holiday! If you are looking for a full on retreat, look no further. Hotel Albergo Gardenia in the beautiful south tip of Switzerland, Tessin, has the magical powers to transform your mood. All it takes is one step into the oasis-like building, surrounded by mountaintops and Mediterranean climate.

TEXT: LEONIE PUSCHER | PHOTOS: HOTEL ALBERGO GARDENIA

Just off the Italian border, only minutes from the stunning Lake Lugano, you will find the 200 year old Hotel building. The original convent from the early 19th century has been converted into the perfect holiday location in the 60’s. Perfect in its very definition in promising to make you feel refreshed, restful, and reposed. 24 rooms are designed to make every guest feel welcome and special. Unique style, open space, artwork by famous artists and garden views will make your arrival become a daydream.

The large windows in every room will give a sneak peek panorama view of what awaits outside.

The Hotel is located in the old part of Caslano, a charming small town with nu-

merous restaurants. A wonderful, 4km circular trail starts at the Hotel’s doorstep leading along the peninsula – stunning views, serenity, and contentment guaranteed!

In the mornings you can fall out of bed onto the terrace overlooking the subtropical garden. This is where you will be served a superb breakfast. From here you can dive right into the Hotel pool. Not just any pool that is. In the middle of the generous outside area full of colourful flowers and rare plants, you can dip into the pool made of natural stone. Everything about this place will make you want to come back. Hotel reviews read like a fairytale.“Like a paradise, unbelievable, full of highlights, amazing lo-

cation.” This holiday will leave you relaxed, full of wonderful memories and with fully charged batteries until your next visit.

And if that’s not enough, the Hotel’s location is perfect for “hiking, golfing, shopping in Italy, or simply relaxing and do nothing for a change,”says owner Andreas Messmer. He and his team are dedicated to make this an unforgettable stay. www.albergo-gardenia.ch

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Attraction of the Month

Ebenalp in Switzerland

Switzerland

Hikers, Bears and Alpenhorns TEXT: JULIKA HÜTHER | PHOTOS: EBENALP

The Ebenalp, at 1,644 metres the northernmost summit of the Appenzell Alps in Switzerland, is known as a paradise for hiking, paragliding, climbing and cross-country skiing. Beyond stunning views and beautiful alpine flora lies a community steeped in tradition and a history dating back to the early Stone Age. Catch a bird's eye view of Switzerland Visitors can reach the little village of Wasserauen easily by car or train from St. Gallen or Gossau. Here lies the valley station of the aerial cableway that has taken tourists and locals up to the Ebenalp since 1955. The six minute ride, which nowadays is enjoyed by up to 200,000 visitors per year, opens up amazing views over the fir-lined valley and the steep faces of the mountains. From the plateau, visitors enjoy an unbeatable view of the Alpstein mountain

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range, the Appenzell Alps, Lake Constance, St. Gallen and the Thurgau Hills.

Hike the world away The Ebenalp with its lush mountain pastures, rustic huts, rare alpine flowers and precipitous slopes is an ideal location for mountain walks from leisurely to challenging to strenuous alpine hikes. Hans Fritsche, secretary and member of the administrative board, says:“the Ebenalp is the

gateway to the Alpstein Mountains with uncountable opportunities for hiking. It is a mountain station in the canton Appenzell from which trails lead further up to the Säntis at 2,500 metres.”Those who enjoy easier walks than that up to the highest mountain in the Alpstein massif can choose between various trails that lead along viewpoints, through caves to stunning locations such as the Lake Seealpsee. The various traditional restaurants scattered along the network of hiking routes offer places to relax and enjoy local food and drinks. Some even double as guest houses.

Soaring heights and steep declines The Ebenalp also attracts many hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts. Because of the height and wind conditions, which can be checked by calling a dedicated weather station, the Ebenalp is an ideal starting

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Discover Germany | Attraction of the Month | Switzerland

point for practice flights and for those who want to enjoy the views from soaring heights. Visitors can book accompanied tandem flights for an adrenaline-filled but safe adventure. Another summertime favourite is climbing the mountainside from the Aescher to the Zisler, where most climbing routes have a UIAA grade of 7, suitable for experienced climbers. During wintertime, five ski lifts, a fun park, a children's slope, and a lit slope draw in locals and tourists even after the sun has set.

Seasoned skiers can race down steep declines on cross-country tracks.

Celebrate tradition and nature Culturally interested visitors will enjoy the guided tours such as the flower tour in spring and various local festivities, though all of them are held in the Appenzell dialect.

Nevertheless, there are many opportunities for English speakers to dive into local culture. The folklore evenings at the restaurant Ebenalp and at the Meglisalp, including

a guided walk, open days at the cheese dairy, Alpenhorn days at Lake Seealpsee, or the meat feast at the Aescher restaurant are fabulous ways to catch the absolute best of local music and cuisine. A night-time ride with the aerial cableway to watch the sunset from the Ebenalp, followed by supper at the mountain restaurant is also a great experience definitely worth having.

Hidden history One sight that should not be missed on a visit to the Ebenalp is the Wildkirchli caves.

Situated a short walk away from the summit station of the aerial cableway, the cave system houses various prehistoric artefacts such as cave bear skeletons and claws, cave lion and other skeletons as well as stone tools, which were discovered in 1904. Dating from around 45,000 to 30,000 B.C., the tools provide proof that people travelled the area in the early Stone Age. The caves were probably used as a summer hunting base for hunters and gatherers.

Later, a hut was erected by hermits, who lived here from 1658 to 1853. Nowadays it serves as an exhibition space for the various Palaeolithic finds. For Fritsche, the caves are more than just a historic landmark: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Wildkirchli caves are said to be a special place for inner strength, providing a mysterious yet peaceful atmosphere especially during rainy days.â&#x20AC;? In contrast, the restaurant Aescher, built into the rock face close to the caves, offers stunning views and local food, the two best things to enjoy on a trip to the Ebenalp. www.ebenalp.ch

For more information (in German) visit: www.ebenalp.ch.

For an English language brochure including a map with hiking trails, please contact: info@ebenalp.ch

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Business | Solicitor Column

Top ten issues to consider when buying art TEXT & PHOTO: GREGOR KLEINKNECHT

London is one of the key centres of the international art market and home to leading international art fairs, auction houses, art galleries and dealers. It also has a thriving contemporary art scene and many artists sell artworks directly from their studios.

With so many opportunities to tempt collectors and investors in the primary and secondary markets, there are, however, a number of important legal pitfalls to be avoided. Here are our top ten issues to consider when buying art.

Gregor Kleinknecht LLM MCIArb is a German Rechtsanwalt and English solicitor, and the founder and managing director of Klein Solicitors, a successful independent boutique law firm in Mayfair in the West End of London.

Klein Solicitors, 42 Brook Street, London W1K 5DB, E-mail: gk@kleinsolicitors.com www.kleinsolicitors.com

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1. Legal title Ensure that the seller is entitled to sell the artwork and that it is free from liens and other title issues. Make detailed enquiries of the seller and ask for written documents establishing clear title.

2. Documentation Obtain a written contract of sale and invoice including a full description and details of the artwork as well as any supporting provenance documentation.

When buying contemporary art in the primary market, and on any subsequent sale, ask for a certificate of authenticity.

3. Provenance Gaps in the ownership history of an artwork may give rise to third party claims in future. Undertake due diligence, including checking public databases where appropriate, to establish that the artwork has not been recorded as lost or stolen. Provenance also has an impact on market value.

4. Authenticity Consider taking expert advice if there is any cause for doubt about the authenticity of an artwork, in particular when buying art on the internet. Seek contractual representations and warranties.

Buying from a reputable gallery or

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dealer provides some protection against fakes and forgeries.

Condition and Price Investigate and record any problems with condition before buying and transporting artworks; ask for and review any condition reports which have been prepared. Check art market data on pricing or obtain an independent valuation.

Risk Ensure that insurance cover is in place at the point when risk passes from the seller to the buyer according to the terms of the contract, including during transport, delivery and installation.

Copyright Purchasing an artwork does not automatically transfer copyright ownership to the buyer and there may be restrictions on the use of the artwork; the artist also retains personal moral rights in the artwork and is entitled to royalties (â&#x20AC;&#x153;artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resale rightâ&#x20AC;?) when artworks are sold on the secondary market.

Tax implications Artworks are sometimes imported into the UK for sale on a temporary basis. If this is the case, check that all applicable import duties,VAT and other taxes have been paid.

Import and export Before taking artworks across international borders, seek guidance on import and export rules and restrictions and ensure that all customs procedures are fully complied with.

Commissioning artworks Special considerations apply to commissioning new artworks from an artist and written contractual safeguards should be put in place.

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Discover Germany | Business | Kaiserin Elisabeth Golfhotel

Left: Yellow Suite Below: Sisi Suite Double Room

Royal recreation guaranteed!

The scenic 4-star Kaiserin Elisabeth Golfhotel, named after its famous guest the legendary Austrian Empress, offers not only the perfect Bavarian environment to relax in but also a great historic setting for business meetings and conferences!

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: KAISERIN ELISABETH GOLFHOTEL

The charming building dates back to 1508 and opened its doors as a hotel in 1856.

Empress Elisabeth of Austria, often called Sisi, chose it to be her holiday home each time she visited her family in Bavaria. It is easy to understand why Sisi fell in love with this enchanted place.“Guests can especially look forward to our unique location. The view from the south-facing rooms and the roofed terrace over the scenic lake Starnberg and the gorgeous Bavarian Alps is stunning,”owner Erika Borchard tells us.

And visitors can feel even more like Sisi herself:“On request we still prepare dishes from the original cookbook of Empress Elisabeth.”

Since 1905 the hotel has been familyowned and managed by the third and fourth generation today. It has been carefully refurbished without altering the charming style. When you first come into

the entrance hall you may feel like you have been transported back in time, but as soon as you see the rooms and suites you will find wi-fi,TV and modern bathrooms. Borchard adds: “We combine history and tradition with contemporary comfort, modern technology and personal service.”

As an inspiring, creative setting for business meetings and workshops, the conference facilities offer space for up to 100 people, and the special conference pavilion accommodates around 30 guests.

Other smaller rooms are available and each space is equipped with modern presentation technology. “We are proud to have guests from all over the world, with many regulars coming back. Located between Munich and Garmisch we are the ideal

venue for family festivities and corporate events,”says Borchard. Guests can exercise in the gym, play tennis or relax in the sauna after a stroll in the park, which is home to one of the oldest golf courses in Germany.

The hotel offers a range of great golf holiday packages with greenfee deductions for 16 surrounding golf courses.

Culinary treats can be discovered at the Terraced Inn and the traditional Bierstueberl (beer pub) offers a romantic setting for a cold one or a glass of quality wine.

The Kaiserin Elisabeth Golfhotel is striking, with its charming personality and superb facilities for a relaxing holiday or an inspirational business meeting. www.kaiserin-elisabeth.de

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Individual education in a family-like country environment!

Learning in a great community about social responsibility, team spirit and respect whilst living close to nature in a historic setting summarizes the philosophy of state-approved Boarding School Nordeck Castle near Marburg in Hessen.

TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: LANDSCHULHEIM BURG NORDECK

The castle dates back to the 12th century, when it belonged to the Lords of Nordeck.

Today the castle is home to one of the smallest and most traditional boarding schools. Its striking location on a hill amongst idyllic forests and meadows and its views over the valley of Lumda towards

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the hills of theVogelsberg are an important component of the school’s philosophy.

Headmistress Gunhild Kloess-Vedder explains: “The principle of progressive education was to take young people away from the cities to the countryside, where they could grow up in smaller, rural educating

communities, with a partnership-like relationship between old and young.”

In 1925 Otto Erdmann, a passionate teacher who was interested in new educational systems, founded the Boarding School Nordeck Castle together with his

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Discover Germany | Business | Boarding School Nordeck Castle

wife Klothilde. He was headmaster until 1954. Erdmann’s approach particularly emphasized individual education, open to all nationalities and religions. A maximum of nine pupils per class allows truly individual support to be given. Only 90 boys and girls study at Nordeck Castle. That creates a family atmosphere where everyone knows each other.

“Our boarding school is indeed a home away from home. Our employees take the place of parents, grandparents, aunts and other relatives. From a pedagogic perspective, they replace the home environment,” Kloess-Vedder adds.“We offer to look after our students all year round, even during holidays if they choose to stay.” All students (except tenth-graders) take part in activities of different clubs. Every six months students can choose from a variety of different subjects ranging from crafts, musical, sports or scientific fields, with the aim of discovering their talents by mastering new tasks. The school changes the clubs to accommodate the students’ wishes. These newly discovered and practised skills help students to become confident, liberal-minded personalities who will find their place in today’s international society.

The school is a member of the Association of the German Country Boarding Schools (Internate Vereinigung e. V.) and was awarded the honorary title of School for Special Educational Needs by Hessen’s Ministry of Education and the Arts.

Castle Nordeck is especially keen on supporting troubled students with all kinds of learning difficulties and problems. There are two in-house psychologists and a lot of other qualified colleagues to provide daily help as and when it is needed. “Our small class sizes distinguish us from other boarding schools. We focus on individual needs and take into account the strengths and weaknesses, preferences and background of each student in order to tailor our support and educational approach,” says Kloess-Vedder.

The committed housemasters and housemistresses live on the school premises just like the students. That allows each

student the individual time they need to learn.

With 12 different nationalities as well as various religions and social backgrounds, the school takes integration very seriously.

The topical concept of inclusion (educating children with disabilities in classrooms with children without disabilities) has been a tradition here for years. A daily schedule provides a structure, which is very important for the students: “It creates reliability and commitment and gives a strong feeling of stability – for our employees, too.”

The school system begins at grade five and boasts modernly equipped classrooms.

English is taught as the first foreign language, with a choice between French and Latin two years later. From grade ten students can choose between classes in ethics or psychology.

After school, students can choose between a vast range of activities including horse riding, tennis, swimming, golf, live action role-playing or drama in their very own natural open-air theatre. Private music lessons can be booked upon request. There is also a sauna and a swimming pool where students can train to achieve the status of lifeguard.

With many great plans for the future and its heart-warming authenticity and care, Boarding School Nordeck Castle proves itself a fantastic learning environment for truly everyone. www.internat-burg-nordeck.de

Kloess-Vedder is especially proud that the school manages to give specially tailored support for each child with the aid of additional concepts and individual educational plans. She is also proud of her multi-professional and very harmonic team that has developed superb boarding school concepts during the past three years.

The school is an officially approved and international examination centre for the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL), which the students will obtain. They can also take the English language test at TELC, another benefit to prepare them for their further lives after leaving school.

As a very multicultural school, it is no surprise that children from abroad, who do not speak German, are integrated quickly and pick up the new language in no time with the help of specially trained staff.

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Hotel

of the Month

Fährhaus Sylt

Germany

Lavish elegance and star-winning menus high up north When Captain Thomas Selmer constructed a simple wooden house on the North Sea island of Sylt in 1868, little could he have foreseen the building's career as a first-class holiday location 150 years later. Originally home to the post office and a down-toearth harbour pub, Fährhaus Sylt on Munkmarsch's marina is nowadays a five star superior hotel with 39 spacious rooms and suites, a two star restaurant and relaxing 700 m² spa.

TEXT: FRANZISKA NÖSSIG | PHOTOS: FÄHRHAUS HOTEL

A luxurious place to stay, Fährhaus Sylt combines lavish elegance and comfort with exclusive design. Hotel guests will find precious timber, top-quality textiles, marble bathrooms and Bose stereo systems in any of the 12 suites and 27 double rooms.Yet its personal, private atmosphere is really what turns the five star hotel into a little gem of a hideaway, hotel director Robert Jopp stresses. A glass walkway connects the new hotel buildings with Selmer's Victorian house whose bar, cafe and restaurant will wrap visitors in their beautiful nostalgic atmosphere. Robert Jopp has been managing both Fährhaus Sylt and the nearby hotel Aarnhoog Sylt since April last year. They are, together with a third option of lodging, the Appartements Sylt, all part of the Fährhaus Hotel Collection which offers a

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unique and exquisite holiday experience on Germany’s most northern island.

Fährhaus Sylt is situated by the Wadden Sea in the district of Munkmarsch, between Keitum und Braderup, providing a highly

Head Chef Alexandro Pape

convenient spot from which to set out to explore the long-stretched island. Next to the small beach on what is literally the hotel’s doorstep, guests will neither want to miss the impressive Wadden Sea in the East nor the beach on the island’s west coast only five minutes away from the Fährhaus.

Any other of Sylt’s coastlines can be reached within ten minutes from there.

Upon return to the hotel’s premises, guests are able to bring their great day out to completion by choosing from more than one culinary venue.

Hotel guests who have booked half-board will exclusively be served a delicious threecourse-meal in the ‘Mara Sand’ restaurant.

In the ‘Käpt’n Selmer Stube’, decorated in fresh Frisian colours and named after the

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Hotel of the Month | Germany

hotel’s founder, chef Alexander Klein and his team will hit a nerve with their regional top-class compositions. “And in the ‘Fährhaus’ restaurant, our gourmet host Alexandro Pape will amaze connoisseurs with his striking menus which have been awarded with 17 Gault Millau points and two Michelin stars,” hotel director Jopp points out. He adds,“The star chef’s memorable creations are inspired by his Rhineland background as well as his paternal Sardinian heritage.” Both latter restaurants are open to hotel and non-hotel guests, yet the ‘Fährhaus’ will only seat 30 lucky ones per night.

With a variety of spa treatments and cosmetic products from international brands like Ligne St. Barth, Snowberry und Niance, Fährhaus Sylt also creates splendid moments of relaxation.You can choose between swimming pool and sauna, a pampering manicure, massage or make-up session, or indulge in a sensual Egyptian-style Rasul Bath. There are also special treatments and offers for kids, as Robert Jopp points out another plus.

However, those who prefer to be more active during their holiday will be treated just as much. Modern gym equipment such as cross trainer, treadmill and rowing machine are all available to hotel guests on the 72 m²

Sporting Club's premises. A more speedy device will take them to the road, as renting a Porsche can be arranged by the hotel throughout the year. Whatever the season, you will thus be able to discover the island’s moods en route: be it its sophisticated glamour during the summer months or Sylt’s rougher and more tranquil side during winter.

For Alexandro Pape, an expedition à la Fährhaus has yet another meaning: it is a culinary discovery from al dente pasta to zesty spices. The star chef, who has been spoiling guests’ palates at the ‘Fährhaus’ since 1999, regularly invites food enthusiasts to join him at his Chef’s Table. Not only will participants learn about some of the chef’s tricks during these cookery classes, but they will also dine with him, enjoying a set menu of his astonishing creations with champagne and selected wines.

This offer can also be booked throughout the year.

The art of combining the right drink with the right food is another aspect Captain Selmer might never have imagined possible in his plain woodenVictorian house. In his time, more likely draught beer would have been served at the harbour pub's bar than a selection of luxurious wine and champagne.

www.faehrhaus-hotel-collection.de

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Business on the go

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