The Imperial Riding School Vienna – a remarkable redesign by Goddard Littlefair

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 façade while incorporating contemporary design elements. Redesigned, the property is a prestigious 342-bedroom hotel that elegantly fuses Vienna’s rich cultural heritage with modern sophistication.

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 narrative marries aristocratic sophistication with bohemian allure, resonating with both the city’s storied past and its dynamic present.

Throughout the hotel, from the lobby to the guest rooms, the Imperial Riding School Vienna seamlessly 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 seamlessly into the ground-floor public areas, comprising a cosy coffee lounge, chic bar, intimate restaurant, and inviting outdoor terrace.

In the bar, contemporary design elements, such as a striking metal work installation traversing the ceiling, create a dynamic and artistic 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, creating the perfect ambiance.

“Our design narrative for the Imperial Riding School Vienna encapsulates the essence of refined creativity and equine grace, offering guests a truly immersive experience where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly, inviting them to embark on a journey through Vienna’s rich cultural heritage,” commented Jo Littlefair, Co-Founder at Goddard Littlefair.

In the guest rooms, the design narrative weaves classical equestrian touches with contemporary elegance. Woven leather accents, horsehair panels, and impressionist watercolour details effortlessly merge, creating a haven of refined luxury. 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, inviting guests to immerse themselves in Vienna’s timeless beauty. The garden retains its iconic roots as an orchard, a historical detail that adds to its charm.

“Respecting the building’s illustrious past and heritage while navigating the constraints of a classical property was paramount in our approach,” added Martin Goddard, Co-Founder at Goddard Littlefair. “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.”

Main image credit: Mel Yates