A VIBRANT STAY IN VIENNA WITH MAX BROWN HOTELS
words by SONNY NGO
Vienna is well known for its culturally rich history, from its musical legacy to its stunning architecture, Austria’s capital has long captured hearts of visitors. Sitting in the creative hub of the city’s 7th district lies a little treasure. A bright spot in the youthful Neubau area, the largest Max Brown hotel collects over a hundred rooms, a taste making restaurant curated by acclaimed chef Eyal Shani, and a comfortable private theatre.
The Neubau quarter hosts some of Vienna’s most vibrant energy with its plethora of hip restaurants, boutiques, and museums. Max Brown 7th District hotel is positioned in the midst of all its vitality. The six-storey building eyes inviting and chic with its exterior design, but once you step inside, the real charm kicks in.
A COZY AND ECLECTIC ATMOSPHERE
Entering the building, you are met with an inviting atmosphere. Woody and colourful furniture and eclectic art engulf the rooms with a down-to-earth aesthetic that radiates a homey feeling with a hint of luxury. The nature inspired palette features vintage pieces originating from local shops, and overall the hotel aims to support its local environment, giving it an extra layer of warmth.
The history of the city thus also shines through, as the architectural style from the 18th century seeps through its shutters, colours, and walls. But those walls also reveal the hotel’s modern setting. A contemporary twist and nod to the building’s playful side, a second exterior wall stars a hand-painted mural by Viennese Käthe Schönle and Sebastian Schager.
COMING TOGETHER AND RELAXING IN YOUR OWN SPACE
Through the open spaces and rooms, visitors and residents alike can merge together in multi-functional ‘Ateliers.’ It is a fun opportunity to meet other creative people and guests and adds to the lovely accommodative area. A pool table invites you to compete for fun with attendees and the diverse set of literature on bookshelves allows you to mentally seclude yourself for a bit to come back re-energised and with newly acquired knowledge.
A true highlight of the hotel is its own theatre space. Weekly film screenings are held in the hotel’s private cinema, supported by the help of the local community and Vienna-based filmmakers, making it one of the most unique experiences of the hub.
But fret not if you just want to sit down and relax in bed. The rooms are meticulously designed with a paramount of detail in every corner. From the lighting to carefully curated plants and novels, the bedroom oozes comfortability. The palettes used in the living spaces carry through in these walls, and the decorative elements radiate a similar vibrancy. Additionally, hints of industrial design mix with the historical architecture, creating a modern space in the heritage rich city.
A TASTE OF CULINARY REFINEMENT
Finally, built around a large open kitchen, almost like a bustling marketplace, acclaimed celebrity chef Eyal Shani delivers on a warm creative take on classic dishes with exquisite detail. The restaurant specialises in traditional tabun clay oven cooked dishes and uses various Mediterranean ingredients to do so. The bar also has a sharp eye for detail, and its cocktails exalt everything luxurious.
Combining both contemporary and vintage-looking interior design, the restaurant is a great place to sit down for a comfortable and warm dinner.
EXTENDING GREATNESS WITH A NEW MAX BROWN LOCATION
After the success of its previous hotels, Max Brown is set to open a new hotel in the 5th district, Margareten, of the city. It will mark the brand’s second location in Vienna and its expansion coincides with Max Brown Hotels’ 10-year anniversary. The central location makes it an ideal base for guests looking to stay close to the city highlights.
In line with the group’s history of embracing local culture with contemporary takes, the hotel will proudly showcase the work of young artists and talents. The art of Sophie Nawratil and Susanne Eizenberger will star along the creations of German photographer Thomas Ruff to enrich the various hotel rooms.
The new hotel gives a novel twist to the Max Brown group and does so with precise detail and attention; sleek architecture, a combination of modern and historical art, and refined decoration cement the hotel in the city. Whether you decide to visit the Max Brown in the 7th or 5th district, both will certainly be worth your while when you have the chance to be in Vienna.
photography DANIEL SARS and SIRCLE COLLECTION