In the middle of Wolfsburg's Autostadt, the Ritz-Carlton Group has opened a haven
of tranquillity in the hustle and bustle of business with this 5-star superior hotel. The
ring-shaped complex is located directly on the Mittelland Canal with a view of the
listed power station and is characterised by spacious outdoor areas, an elegant spa
and several fine-dining restaurants.
destilat was invited to participate in the competition for the expansion of the breakfast
room including the adjacent terrace. In addition to the enlargement, the goal was the
flexible design of the room for multifunctional use as well as the creation of a
pleasant atmosphere.
The design strongly interferes with the existing architecture: As a contemporary
interpretation of the classic coffered ceiling, destilat has opened up the ceiling with a
rhombic construction including vertical window surfaces that catches the daylight and
creates a light, open impression. The striking ceiling grid continues onto the terrace,
where it dissolves as a foliage element and connects the exterior with the interior to
form a harmonious whole.
This dining area, called the "harbour terrace", was the starting point for design
associations. Concepts such as travel, ship and longing can be found as playful
quotations in the design - as a teak floor reminiscent of a ship's deck and as an "open
ceiling" reminiscent of the open sky on the high seas. Guests are welcomed by the
large, centrally placed open fireplace, which fills the generous room structure with a
cosy atmosphere. Around it are grouped the huge buffet area with flexible
arrangement, the open show kitchen and the individual seating decks.
Team
Harald Hatschenberger
Thomas Neuber