Project: The Imperial Riding School Vienna

Goddard Littlefair took on the impressive task of transforming Vienna’s historic Imperial Riding School into an elegant hotel

Interior design and architecture studio Goddard Littlefair has completed the Imperial Riding School Vienna, a prestigious 342-bedroom hotel that elegantly fuses the city’s rich cultural heritage with modern sophistication. Originally a 19th-century military equestrian school and later the city’s largest cinema, the Imperial Riding School has undergone a remarkable transformation, maintaining its majestic facade while incorporating contemporary design elements.

As with each of Goddard Littlefair’s projects, the designers set out to create a narrative that seamlessly blends the history of the building, local culture and context, anchoring the design elements from its architectural features and art installations, to soft furnishings and surface detailing.

Nestled in the vibrant Landstraße district, the Imperial Riding School stands as a testament to Vienna’s architectural splendour. The hotel’s design marries aristocratic sophistication with bohemian allure, resonating with both the city’s storied past and its dynamic present

Bar The Imperial Riding School Vienna

Throughout the hotel, from the lobby to the guest rooms, the Imperial Riding School Vienna blends artistic expression with equestrian elegance. Guests are invited to appreciate the thoughtful integration of the building’s historical elements with modern design. This design narrative extends into the ground-floor public areas, comprising a cosy coffee lounge, chic bar, intimate restaurant and inviting outdoor terrace.

Bedroom The Imperial Riding School Vienna

In the bar, contemporary design elements, such as a striking metal work installation traversing the ceiling, create a dynamic atmosphere. The restaurant features intricate mirror and metalwork designs on the walls, paying homage to Vienna’s rich artistic legacy. Intimate booth seating, cocooned within hanging metalwork frames and strategic lighting enhance the dining experience.

Bathroom The Imperial Riding School Vienna

In the guest rooms, classical equestrian touches appear within a contemporary setting, including woven leather accents, horsehair panels and impressionist watercolour details. The corridors also pay homage to the property’s equestrian roots, featuring bespoke carpet designs that evoke the motion of hoof formations in dressage. The hotel’s historic garden has been transformed into a tranquil oasis, with landscaped seating areas arranged in horseshoe shapes. The garden retains its roots as an orchard, a historical detail that adds to its charm.

Garden bar The Imperial Riding School Vienna

Martin Goddard, Co-Founder at Goddard Littlefair says, “Respecting the building’s illustrious past and heritage while navigating the constraints of a classical property was paramount in our approach. By carefully preserving the architectural integrity and infusing it with contemporary elements, we’ve honoured the legacy of the Imperial Riding School, ensuring its continued relevance and splendour for generations to come.”

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