Hotel Seehof Goldegg

Renovation of the Hotel Seehof in Goldegg, Salzburger Land

The Hotel Seehof in Goldegg am See in the Salzburg region of Pongau is a family-run inn with a strong artistic identity. It has been in existence since 1740 and is now run by the fifth generation of the Schellhorn family. The house sees itself not merely as a classic hotel but as a “place of art”: many of the rooms are individually designed and furnished with works by contemporary artists. Beyond this, an ongoing cultural programme fosters a lively atmosphere closely connected to the current art scene.

In this hotel, steeped in tradition yet at once modern, we modernised and redesigned key areas over several phases of renovation, while consciously preserving its historic character. The redesign of the bar and lounge created atmospheric spaces that convey comfort and invite guests to linger. For the newly conceived Chef’s Table, the exclusive, intimately scaled dining room at the threshold to the kitchen, we placed particular emphasis on a layered mix of materials that architecturally accentuates the spatial identity and unique character of the place. Alongside the public areas, we renewed several guest rooms: historic architectural elements were largely retained, while modern bathrooms, contemporary comfort and thoughtful spatial layouts were introduced. Every phase of the renovation pursued the aim of bringing history, functionality, design and art into a balanced whole.

In this way the hotel remains true to its architectural tradition while meeting contemporary demands – with the aim of preserving, for its guests, that special synthesis of architecture, natural setting and cultural context. The Hotel Seehof is in a state of constant, unbroken transformation. Between lovingly designed nooks to pause in, curated books and contemporary art, the unexpected reveals itself to guests again and again. The continually growing collection of quotations from the ‘Enchantment Institute at the End of the World’ can also be found in many places throughout the house: “There are a lot of good people around.” “The Seehof Goldegg is a house for whose soul one must be ready.” “At the Seehof Goldegg there are no numbers. The room numbers at most.” “Art must become a hobby!” “A cosy, homely scent of fresh flowers. Mingled with the pleasant roasted aroma of coffee.” “Just face it.” “What happens at the lake stays at the lake.” “Over a good coffee, you forgive even your own parents.”

Valentina Lauš, project architect for Meier-Scupin Architekten
Photos: Ivona Bezmalinović