Hotel Badeschloss | A Timeless Luxury with a Splash of Modern Flair

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Hotel Badeschloss | London Design Awards

Bathing Palace

The revitalised Hotel Straubinger, Badeschloss, and Alte Post in the heart of Bad Gastein reflect a harmonious blend of historical charm and contemporary flair, carrying a legacy dating back to their original construction between 1791 and 1888. Each of these heritage-protected buildings has been meticulously restored and reimagined to showcase their unique history while embracing modern design elements that give a fresh twist to Bad Gastein’s iconic spa culture.

The Badeschloss, in particular, is a brilliant example of this fusion. Translating to “bathing palace,” Badeschloss offers a thoughtful take on bathing culture, balancing its noble heritage with lively, inviting spaces. The architect’s guiding principle was to work thoughtfully with the layers of history embedded in the building, creating a space that feels both vibrant and rooted in the past. This concept is visible in nearly every detail, from the playful lobby decor to the design of the dining and spa areas.

Within, each aspect of the hotel playfully nods to traditional spa themes while updating them with a touch of modern creativity. A community table clad in white tiles, reminiscent of a communal bath, sets a welcoming tone in the lobby, while a bright yellow table that resembles a diving board adds an element of fun.

Throughout the hotel, design choices like these bring light to the space, drawing inspiration from swimming pools, open kitchens, and social gatherings. The hotel’s locker-lined wall serves as a nostalgic cloakroom for locals, echoing the changing rooms found in old public baths and creating a sense of belonging for everyone who visits.

The hotel’s F&B areas are a testament to the thoughtful preservation and enhancement of Badeschloss’s original baroque architecture. Each room in this area has been carefully updated, maintaining the grandeur of the building's original design while adding fresh elements. A soft layer of light blue wall tiles was incorporated to match the overall theme, enhancing the restaurant without overshadowing its classic style. This mix of the old and new extends to the original Lobmeyr chandeliers, which have been updated to modern standards, as well as the solid wood floors, which were carefully restored to maintain their integrity. Adding a bold contrast, neon accents on benches and tables lend a contemporary touch, highlighting the structure’s elegant yet playful personality.

Perhaps one of the most eye-catching features of the new design is the rooftop spa, which spans three floors and includes a stunning terrace on the 13th floor with panoramic views. This space is crowned by a rooftop pool featuring striking glass crystal steps, making it an ideal spot to unwind while taking in the breathtaking alpine scenery.

Above the pool, the words "Alpine Swim Club" are displayed in bold, bringing a dash of modernity to the setting. Cobalt blue touches, wavy metal lines, wooden slats, and terrazzo accents come together to evoke the essence of a serene mountain retreat while maintaining an urban elegance.

The 102 guest rooms at the Badeschloss are spread across both the historic structure and a new addition. These exclusive rooms are thoughtfully designed to bring the spa experience to the guests, echoing the theme of “a bath you can spend the night in.” The interiors are a careful blend of modern amenities and vintage touches, offering guests the best of both worlds.

Through this sensitive yet innovative restoration, Hotel Badeschloss stand as icons of Bad Gastein’s rich history, artfully balancing tradition with a flair for the present. Each element, from the decor to the spa facilities, reflects the unique spirit of the place while inviting visitors to experience luxury with a fresh perspective, all while honoring the legacy of these historic sites.