Goddard Littlefair transforms former military equestrian school for Marriott’s Autograph Collection
Goddard Littlefair has completed the design of Imperial Riding School, a 342-key addition to Marriott’s Autograph Collection, located in Vienna’s vibrant Landstraße district.
Originally a 19th-century military equestrian school, and later the city’s largest cinema, the property has undergone a significant transformation, maintaining its majestic facade while contemporary design elements have been incorporated within.
The design studio set out to create a narrative that seamlessly blends the history of the building and local culture. As such, the hotel’s design narrative marries aristocratic sophistication with bohemian allure, resonating with both the city’s storied past and its dynamic present.
From the lobby to the guestrooms, artistic expression has been blended with equestrian elegance. The bar is filled with contemporary design elements, such as a striking metal work installation traversing the ceiling and creating a dynamic feel. 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 further enhance the dining experience.
Guestrooms feature classic equestrian touches, such as woven leather accents and horsehair panels, paired with impressionist watercolour details. 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, while the space also retains its roots as an orchard.
“Respecting the building’s illustrious past and heritage while navigating the constraints of a classical property was paramount in our approach,” says Martin Goddard, co-founder of 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.”
