Hotel Flint l Marte.Marte Architects

Architecture, Hotel

Nestled at the end of Dornbirn’s Bahnhofsstraße, the captivating town villa known as “Hotel Josef Weiss” and its neighboring complex, Hotel Flint, have recently transformed into a remarkable new urban landmark. The fusion of old-world charm with modern flair is evident in the atmospheric furnishings and relief-like façade of the tower and podium, which pay homage to the existing listed building. The mobility concept’s primary focus is to train travelers, providing a selection of spacious suites in the villa and ingeniously compact apartments and rooms, each offering magnificent views.

The reimagined Hotel Flint stands as a symbolic urban oasis on the former grounds of Josef Weiss, a visionary figure in the gastronomy realm hailing from South Tyrol. The hotel complex, comprising a slender tower and a two-story podium, now encompasses the villa, once owned by the esteemed gentleman.

In its heyday, this distinctive corner building on the junction of Bahnhofstraße and Franz-Michael-Felder-Straße served as a hotel and housed a renowned wine tavern. After undergoing several intermediate transformations, the property and hotel are now owned by Walter Feurstein, who has beautifully restored them, establishing a new urban landmark.

Hotel Flint’s Design Concept

The design philosophy is firmly rooted in a clear urban planning concept that fosters a harmonious dialogue between the new and existing structures. The nearly square tower aligns seamlessly with the neighboring building, maintaining consistency in depth and height.

Moreover, the square in front of the entrance acts as a mediator, forging a connection between the new building, the villa, and the opposite side of the street. The structural aesthetics are further accentuated by a homogeneous, sculptural façade that boasts precision concrete work and a cleverly staggered arrangement of windows, resulting in a visually captivating interplay of light and shadow.

Stepping inside Hotel Flint, guests are greeted by a series of tastefully appointed rooms, including a welcoming lobby, a cozy fireplace lounge, a delightful breakfast room, and an elegant bar, all adorned with select furniture and premium materials. In the semi-public areas, historical black-and-white photographs stretch from floor to ceiling, offering a glimpse into the vibrant activity and bustling commerce that once thrived here during the early 20th century.

Additionally, one of the ground-floor seminar rooms connects seamlessly to the revitalized villa through an expansive opening. This listed building now houses six spacious suites, with the most extensive boasting original fixtures, including paneling, cabinets, a sitting area, and a meticulously restored tiled stove. A shop on the mezzanine, facing the train station, rekindles the former restaurant’s spirit with a fresh purpose, elevating its status as a prestigious destination.

The first-floor spa in the new building capitalizes on the clever use of natural light streaming in from the inner courtyard. The juxtaposition of the relaxation room’s intimacy with its unexpected view of the vibrant cityscape adds a unique touch. Subtle yet elegant light fixtures integrated into the walls pay homage to the villa’s style. Using natural-colored sisal carpeting and strategically placed wall openings at the end of the corridors to create a bright and inviting atmosphere.

Hotel Flint offers a diverse range of 77 rooms and caters to various preferences and needs. Long-term rooms come equipped with sophisticated partitions, kitchenettes, and stone-clad bathrooms, providing a home away from home for extended stays. Meanwhile, more minor, optimally designed rooms offer sweeping views in three directions and unconventional bathroom facilities, making the most of the available space. Despite the tower’s compactness, space is abundant, allowing the villa and its surroundings to offer unique sightlines at ground level and above. This creates delightful spots for guests to unwind and enjoy the urban flair on warm summer evenings.

Hotel Flint is a stunning testament to the seamless blending of historic charm and modern sophistication. As an urban oasis in the heart of Dornbirn, it offers an inviting haven for travelers, whether arriving by train or otherwise. With its distinct architectural design, captivating interiors, and picturesque views, Hotel Flint promises an unforgettable experience for all who enjoy staying within its walls.