Modernisation of the Berchtesgaden Youth Hostel

The project began as a study to investigate the general design of youth hostels; the individual hostel in Berchtesgaden; and the development of space, in terms of room‐size requirements.

Recent developments in the hotel‐sector reveal an increasing trend towards the 5‐star luxury segment on one hand, and on the other, the growing appeal of the individually designed elementary hotel.

The success of these hotel typologies in urban areas is based on a return to simple yet clearly defined concepts, combined with quality elements, materials, and furniture with spaces that stimulate activity, group interaction, and a sense of community. The research found that the originality of the surroundings and the uniqueness of the experience create an authentic concept.

The project’s first phase entailed the modernisation of the ‘Unter Haus’, targeted at both families and business‐oriented guests. Reinterpreting the traditional bunk beds as integrated ‘Stapelbetten’, the space is organised into coherent zones, with just a few key interventions.

Crucial to the design concept was the ecological quality of the materials and their manufacturing details. Built‐in furniture and integrated storage avoids the barracks‐style appearance of the typical youth hostel.

Size:1.500 m2; 91 beds