Schloss Steinburg Hotel, Würzburg

Right in the middle of the world-famous Würzburger Stein vineyard – with a view over the city as far as the fortress and Käppele pilgrimage church – is located the new “Refuge” event and conference centre run by the four-star Schloss Steinburg Hotel. Together with the Mayarchitekten firm of architects, the building’s client Lothar Bezold has put to effect a structural ensemble that combines ultra-modern conference and function spaces with elegant guest rooms and suites on three floors covering around 36,000 square feet of floor-space. Incorporating a period, partly listed, mock-Tudor mansion 110 years old has created a stylish element of contrast to the modern, highly functional “Refuge”.

The ground floor is given over to conference rooms whilst the first floor houses 23 hotel rooms. The open spatial layout, which extends to integrating the bathroom into the sleeping and living area, is echoed by large window fronts that afford delightful views of Würzburg and environs even for anyone in bed or the bath. A mixture of “U” and “L”-shaped buildings has helped fashion an inner courtyard and a terrace. The latter, which divides into different levels, provides space for relaxing in as well as the option of putting on minor performances against the backdrop of the city.

The inner courtyard likewise opens onto the city and can be used by conference attendees. Some bits of the building jut in, some out, so as to variously form enclosed, semi-enclosed and open areas that are conducive to encounter and communication. Up-to-the-minute levels of both technology and hospitality are also reflected in the doors. Use is made of a system solution for electronic access management together with a welter of classic mechanical fittings from the house of FSB. The C33 Dark Bronze Anodised finish blends in seamlessly with the design of the Refuge. Earthy colours and natural materials round off the stylish scheme and make for a pleasant atmosphere.