| Examples of successful and sustainable designs for hotel buildings can be found in the Green PearlsⓇ network. They show how architecture and the environment are brought into harmony – from green facades and work on and with existing buildings to the transformation and reuse of historic buildings. |
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The Transition from Public to Private Spaces
An exemplary project is the expansion of the STURM Hotel in Mellrichstadt. Rather than demolishing the 1970s structure and rebuilding the hotel, the owners and SLG Architekten, in collaboration with Professor Matthias Loebermann, developed a second skin: a delicate wooden screen that wraps around the existing building like a filter.
„The new shell meets technical requirements such as sun and weather protection – it also creates a gradual, secure transition from public to private space,” explains SLG architect Fabian Getto. This facade solution demonstrates how a new architectural identity can be established with minimal intervention. |
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| «The facade reflects the ideology of the hotel. At Hotel STURM, it meets high standards in terms of cladding, design, and technical features (privacy, sun protection, weather protection, energy generation, and green roofing) as well as functionality, such as gradual, protected transitions from public to private spaces.»
Architect Fabian Getto from SLG Architekten |
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Sustainability as a Guiding Design Principle
Since its redesign in 2017, STURM has continued to evolve architecturally and conceptually. Instead of a traditional swimming pool, a natural pond was created around which 20 new rooms with a garden view were built in 2022, once again designed by Loebermann. These larch wood retreats were awarded the “Best Architects Award” in 2024. SLG is currently expanding the site to include the “House of Peace.” In keeping with its intended use, the architecture blends into the landscape. |
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Self-Built, Consciously Designed
When Henrike and Dr. Andreas Färber took over the former Augustinian monastery and inn in Bayerisch Gmain, one thing was clear: the Klosterhof’s new sustainable identity should be evident not only on paper but also in its architecture. The facade became the central expression of this aspiration, featuring larch shingles from the region (Bad Reichenhall) that not only clad the exterior walls but also adorn the interior, creating a sense of continuity. Many of them were cut and fitted by the owners themselves.
They are a clear architectural statement of traditional craftsmanship, yet they gently integrate the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa into the landscape. The shingles and green roofs highlight the hosts’ creative and social goal of blending in with the surroundings rather than imposing on them. |
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