VIENNA, Austria
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has unveiled the restored public spaces at Hotel Imperial, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Vienna.
The one-year, $14 million restoration of the hotel's ground floor, which includes the landmark lobby, a signature restaurant, destination bar, Imperial Cafe and Imperial Torte shop, and private event venues, was led by British interior designer Alex Kravetz, in close collaboration with the Bundesdenkmalamt (Austrian Federal Office for the Care of Monuments).
Hotel Imperial was originally built in 1863 as a private residence for Prince Philipp of Württemberg, and the palace was converted into Hotel Imperial in time for the 1873 Universal Exhibition. Today it offers 138 guest rooms (including 62 suites) and seven event spaces.
The original passage connecting the hotel to the Musikverein has been completely remodeled and enlarged during the restoration. Newly reopened, the historic Composers Entrance provides guests with a stately departure experience while en route to a performance at the world-renowned concert hall, home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
Leading to the way to the entrance is the Path of History, lined with archival photographs of the hotel and its past illustrious guests, including maestros, musicians, aristocrats and celebrities.
At the heart of the hotel is 1873 – HalleNsalon, an elegant lobby bar reminiscent of a private library. The high-ceilinged bar features crystal chandeliers and restored angel friezes.
Cafe Imperial Wien has added distinctive chairs and window tables, while the new parquet floor and light fixtures reflect the original interiors; it has also been expanded with rare, book-match marble floors, integrating the space with a show kitchen and Imperial Torte display.
The new OPUS Restaurant showcases Viennese style from the 1930s with modern aesthetics. Passing through the restored entrance, guests enter an environment featuring original burr walnut paneling, crystal chandeliers and red candle wall lights.
OPUS reinterprets Austrian classics using contemporary techniques and lighter flavors, with a menu that features premium regional produce.
