ANDAZ MUNICH – DESIGN STORY

concrete proudly presents the opening of its latest hotel project, Andaz Munich in Schwabing. Like a kaleidoscope, the Andaz hotel reflects the culture and tradition of the neighbourhood, creating a stimulating and inspiring atmosphere where guests and locals can feel at home. The combination of state-of-the-art technology and old traditions that makes Munich so unique forms a sense of tension that can be found throughout the hotel design. The ceiling structure illustrates this contrast via a literally interwoven network of rough wood and high-gloss anodised metal. The connecting axis between the different areas which brings all functions together in a single hybrid space ('we share') is a lively place to meet and mingle.

The many facets of Bavarian culture run like a leitmotif through the design. This is reflected from the largest scale to the smallest details; for example, the diamond shape (the Bavarian flag) is placed over the whole layout like a matrix, while details like deer horn buttons on the cushions remind of Bavarian fashion. Many icons associated with the city of Munich have been reinterpreted or abstracted as small highlights drizzled throughout the hotel, while traditional materials have been given a modern interpretation via a contemporary design language.

Lounge & Bar

The lounge immediately has an impressive effect on the guests with the oversized diamond pattern of the natural stone floor mirrored on the ceiling by back-lit diamond shapes. The diamond-shaped columns in the entrance area are two storeys high and feature several nearly seven-metre high video screens that stream the Munich skies while guests informally check in. Along the facade is a cosy seating area, where cosmopolitan travellers and the original Munich residents will feel equally at home. Casual seating arrangements create a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere that invites visitors to linger here all day, from the first breakfast pretzel to the late-night cocktail hour. The entrance to the elevator lobby exudes glamour: under a sky of hundreds of mirror bulbs guests will feel like they are in a Bohemian Cabaret in the Schwabing of the 1920s. The floor-to-ceiling leather panels on the walls are embroidered with quotes from Bavaria and local artists from that time. A predestined selfie spot is the enormous abstracted golden pretzel in between, a nod towards the popular pastry. Like a lively street, the central 'we share' common area runs through the lounge, blending the different areas together. Its modern interpretation of a Stammtisch and giant green islands with tree-like inspired lampshade sculptures bring the area to life. The diamond-shaped bar, situated in the heart of the lounge, is its focal point: it is crowned by a light sculpture with more than 3000 faceted crystal balls that disseminate radiant light.

Restaurant ‘The Lonely Broccoli’

An iconic glass display wall connects the lounge to 'The Lonely Broccoli' restaurant. It features a meat-oriented menu that is likely to attract guests and locals alike. The heart of the restaurant is its open kitchen. Under an enormous hood made of steel and glass, it offers guests a great view of the meat being prepared on the impressive charcoal grill. Opposite to the kitchen is the open bar, where charcuterie is prepared with the iconic Berkel ham slicer. Also open for breakfast, the restaurant has a warm atmosphere. Bistro tables and bar seating in deli style are combined with two long chef's tables in the front area, while more formal seating groups in the back area form the backdrop for this upscale culinary experience. The private dining area can be closed off with translucent glass doors, and double doors in the rear facade lead to the inviting restaurant terrace.

Pre-function & Ballroom

A two-storey green wall is the eye-catcher in the conference entrance of the hotel, providing a leafy frame for the iconic curved steel staircase that leads to the upstairs studios. The intimate pre-function area is spanned by a wooden ceiling that simulates the zigzag of extruded diamonds. Black glass surfaces create an exclusive ambience, while the bar behind the oversized sliding doors is ideal for serving events. Two large double doors open up to reveal the imposing five-metre high ballroom with its illuminated diamond-shaped ceiling. This absolute showstopper spans the space in a threedimensional fold and folds down to the floor at one side. Via countless programmable lighting moods, the brightlycoloured back-lit ceiling can be turned into a huge object of light and transformed into an atmospheric setting for any occasion. Between the otherwise plain white surfaces and sweeping sheer curtains, the diamond pattern of the carpet creates a kaleidoscope of blues.

Studios

"Work is more than just a job" is the leitmotif for the studios, which are spread out over two floors. Here, the playful character and residential feel are equally as important as the functional features. While a game of table football or a drink at one of the bar tables frees up the mind for creative ideas, sofas and lounge chairs cater to informal meetings. The seating arrangements can easily be adapted by rearranging the small tables and poufs, and black glass partitions – which also serve as whiteboards – provide the flexibility to connect or separate the rooms. The breakout area between the studios features a high-quality ambience, allowing guests to relax with a book on the sofas in the 'library', sit in small groups at tables of different heights or finish the day with a glass of wine at the attractive marble bar. The two individual show kitchens enable the catering of private events or conferences. Here too, traditional materials and references such as the black-and-white chequered tile pattern and copper surfaces are presented with a modern twist.

Coffee Bar ’Bicicletta’

The coffee bar connects the hotel to the lively city of Munich and opens to the neighbourhood outside. This is where the love of bicycles meets the perfect coffee. The counter is at the heart of the café and consists of a custom designed fivemetre cargo bike, where the coffee specialties are prepared and products are presented. The bar serves light meals, healthy juices or a glass of wine throughout day and offers a casual and informal atmosphere. With wrenches presented next to coffee spoons, the high open space has an industrial charm through the use of honest and rough materials.

Skybar / Rooftop ‘M’Uniqo’

When stepping off the lift at the highest point of the building, guests will be rewarded with a panoramic view over Munich. Embedded in an exclusive range of materials in brass and petrol tones, M’Uniqo is all about opulence and richness. Centred around an iconic bottle rack, the five-metre high bar has a core covered in back-lit shelves, with hundreds of bottles reflected in the mirror ceiling. Sampling Italian cicchettis and nipping vermouth from crystal glasses, visitors are welcome to sink into the deep blue velvet sofas or enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere at the long bar tables. The half-covered rooftop bar with spacious lounge seating area on top of the hotel creates a sense of being on a short vacation, surrounded by a palette of blues featured in the cushions and bright blue glasses of the bottle rack. Whether from a rocking chair, the porch swing or a bar table, with a little luck guests can see the Alps glowing in the distance.

Spa & Pool Deck

The human body has no sharp angles, and this leading theme inspired the round shapes of the spaces in the spa. As they flow organically into each other, guests are intuitively guided to the different areas, while natural materials, soft greens, oak, light tile mosaics and brass accents radiate an elegant calm. On the 5th floor, there is a 24-hour fitness center, treatment rooms, changing rooms and an extensive sauna area. An iconic spiral staircase links the 5th floor to the pool deck and outdoor terrace on the 6th. This area is also directly accessible with the lift and is the perfect place for pool parties, presentations and other events surrounded by an impressive view over Munich.

Café M

With its high glass facades, the employee restaurant Café M in the annex building opens to the outside on three sides. Reminiscent of a picnic setting, the casual decor and unpretentious menu make the café accessible to staff, hotel guests and neighbourhood residents alike. A green barcode made of abstract floral graphics surrounds the core that houses the kitchen and self-service buffet. Under a string of lanterns, seating consists of simple yet colourful chairs combined with sturdy wooden tables. A similar theme is continued on the outdoor terraces on two sides.

The Rooms

A modern loft was the inspiration for the very spacious hotel rooms. Instead of conventional walls that separate the room, two frames of raw steel divide it into a bathroom, bedroom and living area to create a contemporary en-suite. It has resulted in an open character with a free visual axis from the entrance to the wide panorama windows. The custom designed sofa across the entire width of the window – from the chaise longue to the workplace – is reminiscent of the seats and leather details of a vintage BMW. Surrounded by local materials such as oak and copper details, supplemented by Bavarian accessories such as the Gamsbart hat or dirndl mannequin, guests will feel perfectly at home.

Suites

The suites, ranging from 72 - 200 sqm, also use the element of the steel frames to divide and connect the rooms into different areas and create a loft-like, open sense of space. Most suites have a separate dining/work area with a small kitchen. The living rooms are equipped with a large sofa, desk and additional TV, while the bathrooms feature a double vanity and bathtub. Make-up table and walk-in closets complete the luxurious decor.

ANDAZ MUNICH – WALK-THROUGH

The Lounge

Guests enter the hotel lounge via a theatrical, seven-metre high entrance hall. Here, huge diamond-shaped pillars are connected by a ribbon-like structure in the ceiling that is braided like the wickerwork of a dirndl. Extending to the far end of the building, the ribbons consist alternately of rough oak and anodised aluminium panels – materials that refer to the traditional craftsmanship and modern high-tech industry of Munich. The diamond-shaped spaces in-between are filled with back-lit ceiling panels that can subtly steer the mood in the lounge. As an obvious reference to the blue and white Bavarian flag, the diamond-shaped grid placed over the entire layout forms a matrix for the floor, wall and ceiling structures and even comes back in the shape of the bespoke furniture. The surface of the elegant diamond-shaped granite floor was finished in different ways to create a subtle play of colours. Like a sculpture, the two reception desks, made from the same natural stone as the floor, rise up in the shape of a diamond with all equipment concealed behind the refined detailing of the stone panels. While guests check in, the Munich sky passes by on seven-metre high video installations by Yves Peitzner on the four surrounding pillars.

Opposite, by the entrance to the lift lobby, the iconic 'Golden Pretzel' creates the perfect selfie spot. The seating object made from a cast bronze alloy was modelled after the typical pastry, Breze'n, and produced by a traditional Munich art foundry (Kollinger). The walls of the lift lobby are covered with green leather panels, embroidered in fine copper thread with typical Bavarian sayings and quotes from the Swabian artist scene of the 1920s. True to the Andaz motto – to reflect the culture of the neighbourhood – the most famous quotes originate from the 'Der Blaue Reiter' artist group which was founded in Schwabing. Hundreds of crown mirror LEDs in the ceiling are reminiscent of the bohemian cabaret scene of this time. Adjacent to the entrance hall, along the facade, the lounge merges into a cosy sitting area where a lower ceiling height, wooden floor and colour palette of warm cognac and red tones create an intimate atmosphere. An eclectic mix of comfortable sofas and lounge chairs on plush carpets bring a living room vibe, while casual seating arrangements provide an informal yet luxurious setting for lingering all day, from breakfast cappuccinos to the late-night cocktail hour. Five rows of rotating chrome frames between the seating groups act as room dividers and red-tinted glass compartments offer guests a wide selection of books and magazines.

The Bar

The lounge flows smoothly into the seating area around the central, diamond-shaped bar. The two angled counters are grouped around a central pillar featuring illuminated bottle shelves all around. Based on the traditional copper beer kettles, the counter fronts are clad with polished copper plates, while the rustic counter top of 5 cm unhewn oak plank has been given a contemporary twist with a high-gloss epoxy finish. The rear bar cabinets are covered with fine, coppercolour metal mesh. The eye-catcher in this area is the gigantic light sculpture in the four diamond shapes of the bar ceiling that feature over 3,500 faceted glass spheres illuminated by ceiling spots that reflect the light like a prism. The sofas in dark upholstery around the bar are set up as half diamonds, richly decorated with custom designed pillows, while loden fabrics, horn buttons, leather straps and braided cords are subtle references to the regional costume fashion. Through three large glass double doors, the bar is connected to the outdoor terrace towards the Leopoldstraße.

We Share

As the connecting axis, the 'we share' zone, which connects all the hotel’s elements, runs through the different areas. Like green islands, two large groups of seats and four custom designed sofas set up to form a large diamond shape enliven the area. Complemented by lounge armchairs and a comfortable rug, they each form intimate sitting areas. The central wooden element in the middle is equipped with sockets and USB ports, while a filing cabinet features a wealth of magazines and books. Like a tree, the wooden cube creates a structure of floor lamps that bathes the island in warm light. Similar to the floor lamps in the bar, the lamp shades are embroidered with individual Bavarian sayings, while the palette of green fabrics and 'lamp tree' are a nod to the English Garden, another famous Munich landmark. In addition, the typical 'Stammtisch' invites guests to a tankard of beer or glass of wine. The classic shape of a beer table has been given a luxurious make-over through the use of high-quality materials: the refined oak table top floats on polished copper feet, while the decorative stitching of the green upholstery follows the oblique diamond pattern in the floor.

Restrooms

Illuminated by a sculptural light installation, a curved spiral staircase leads to the restrooms in the basement. The washrooms play with the contrast of light and dark: the entire room features dark anthracite, with monolithic white washbasins in the centre highlighting the bright area. A special feature involves the round mirrors with copper-toned edging placed over each washbasin. Some feature a round mirror, while others serve as a frame without content in front of the mirror wall. Numerous refined copper and oak details, such as the embedded tissue boxes, large wall mirrors and make-up tables, create a lavish sense of luxury. A fun factor was added with the room-high graphics printed on the walls and used as a backdrop in the individual toilets. The enlarged images of Schuhplattler dancing men and pink ladies in dirndl are extremely pixelated and overlaid with a grid of diamonds, creating an abstract reference to the Bavarian dress costume that’s only visible from several metres away.

Restaurant ‘The Lonely Broccoli’

An iconic glass wall forms the filter between the lounge and restaurant, which is accessed through two revolving doors of nearly four metres high. The open kitchen is the heart of the restaurant. Its three-sided counter is lavishly decorated with a modern walnut panelling reminiscent of a classic brasserie bar. From all sides, guests can see the kitchen island, which is equipped with a huge charcoal grill. The show kitchen is framed by a back-lit 'hood' made of steel and glass. Matte brass profiles and textured glass in various patterns enhance the industrial character. Mirrored opposite the kitchen is the bar, which is also framed on three sides by walnut panels topped with a glass hood. The iconic red Berkel Slicer serves as an eye-catcher on the counter, with air-dried ham suspended above the central bar block.

The two long chef's tables and counter seats by the kitchen and bar offer first-row seats to the culinary activities. In the front area, round bistro tables with black natural stone mixed with wooden chairs have been loosely placed around. The rear fine-dining area of the room is furnished with comfortable, upholstered chairs combined with high quality details. Large-format mirrors on the walls reflect the light, and a central bench divided by a wooden element creates four intimate seating areas. Translucent folding doors connect or separate the private dining area, while the double doors in the rear facade extend the restaurant to the terrace, letting guests lounge in the heart of the city while enjoying the green setting. Custom designed lamps float above the tables like a net of light: clear glass balls are held in a symmetrical structure of black profiles, thus ensuring the restaurant’s unique character. The casualness of the deli style is blended into a warm atmosphere through a mix of elegant materials such as walnut, brass, black natural stone and a wine-red colour palette. The brass profiles in the light concrete floor subtly zone the various seating areas.

Coffee Bar ’Bicicletta’

The centrepiece of the bar is its counter on a five-metre custom-built cargo bike. Its copper-clad framework is topped with white tiles to present the prepared food and drinks. In addition to the tiled plateaus, integrated ice tub and glass refrigerated display case, it is used by the Barista to prepare the coffee specialities. Bicycles suspended from the ceiling above the counter emphasise the height of the room, while the wall-mounted winches and rod-shaped LED fittings create a casual workshop atmosphere. The mirror on the back wall of the bar doubles this installation. In front of the two window fronts are high bar tables made of beech. Sitting on bar stools shaped like bicycle saddles this is the place ’to see and be seen’. A typical workbench was transformed into a communal table, while two vintage leather sofas at the back of the bar invite guests to linger. Many more details play with the mix of coffee love and bicycle workshop: the back walls are covered with a perforated metal wall featuring kitchen utensils next to wrenches and silverware, and napkins are placed on the tables in open tool boxes. Although the untreated concrete walls and ceilings and the screed floor radiate a rough charm, the low hanging blue terracotta lights provide an intimate and homely atmosphere.

Conferences

Covered entirely in vegetation, a green double-height wall characterises the conference entrance of the building. Another highlight is the iconic curved staircase made of powder-coated steel, which spirals organically up to the studios on the first floor.

Pre-function

Through the broad glass front, guests enter the vestibule to the ballroom. Here, the diamond shapes turn threedimensional. Like a row of extruded diamond shapes, a zigzag-shaped wooden ceiling expands across the room. The bespoke copper rimmed lamps fit in the triangular folds like a contra-shape. The back wall is covered with floor-to-ceiling black glass panels, and oversized sliding doors reveal the pre-function bar whenever an event takes place. Black lacquered metal fronts, white marble counter tops and illuminated shelves create a distinguished ambiance. A special feature is the seven-metre bar table: carved from an oak log like a large plank, the table top is encased by a triangular copper frame. An equally long triangular lamp above the counter (made of glass and copper) completes the two triangles to form a diamond shape.

Ballroom

The wooden zigzag ceiling of the vestibule continues into the ballroom, folding up to the ceiling, while large diamondshaped carpet tiles on the floor dissolve into a ‘kaleidoscope’ of blue tones. The absolute showstopper of the ballroom is its three-dimensional diamond-shaped ceiling that folds down to the floor on one side. Between a rail grid, which integrates the light spots and technical elements, the ceiling shapes fold up like pyramids. Two of the four textile-covered triangles are back-lit and an RGB controlled light programme enhances the three-dimensional effect and can transform the space with ever new moods. The facade of the almost five-metre high room is closed off with a transparent curtain that runs along the floor-to-ceiling glass doors in a soft wave. A mobile sliding wall can divide the hall into two independently functioning rooms. Electrically operated projection screens are flush with the ceiling, and oversized double doors at the rear – wide enough to drive a car through – connect the hall to the outside space and service area.

Studios

“Work is more than a job” was the guideline for the spacious studios. In addition to the functional conference facility, the 'residential' character is an essential part of the space. In the comfortable sofas and lounge chairs guests can sit together informally, while small tables and poufs offer a variable seating arrangement. The fun factor is represented by playful elements such as a table football and high bar tables. The main design element involves expansive wall elements with integrated pantry, wardrobe and bar functions. The materialisation with black glass and copper details creates a high-quality feel and provides an interesting reflection of the lighting. The connecting walls include flush-mounted large flat screens, while the glass surface becomes an XL whiteboard when written on. The floor-to-ceiling glass doors connect the studios to each other, and the two largest studios, each about 115 sqm, can be connected by a double-wide connecting door in the middle. Following the angular lines of the diamond grid, the diagonal created by the ceiling light rails gives the room a dynamic direction. The colour palette includes a fan of blues with ochre accents, as featured by the various fabrics of the comfortable office chairs and sofas.

Private Kitchens

Opposite the studios on both floors a show kitchen is available for private events or conference catering. Elements such as a classic checkerboard floor in black and white natural stone are, of course, laid in a diamond shape. On the ground floor, the fronts of the refrigerated drawers and storage cabinets in black lacquered metal form an elegant contrast to the back wall, which is completely covered in copper diamond shapes. An open structure of black steel profiles above the kitchen unit forms the framework for hanging herbs and plants. The central element in the room is a massive wooden table for twelve, with an integrated modern induction hob at the end. The playful placement of suspended lamps above the table creates a nice contrast to the straightforward design of the kitchen and large stainless-steel frames leaning against the wall beside a mirror and art print serve as a display for cookbooks and magazines. On the upper floor the elegant black kitchen cabinets also encase the back wall covered in glossy copper plates. A special feature is the enormous counter made of black natural stone, which features several hobs and heat fields.

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