From modest resources – come great things… The project is based in a former Caritas retirement home and financed via crowdfunding of € 57,306, plus a € 1.5m loan from Caritas Vienna. To enable the adaptation of the building, on a limited budget, upcycling was a key element from the start. With help from renowned architects AllesWirdGut and artist Daniel Buechel, the nine-month turnaround involved taking fitted cupboards from the original nursing home and turning them into benches, tables, and lamps. Old doors became new mirrors – and even luggage racks from Austrian trains now hold suitcases in each room. Enthusiastic volunteers got involved at every stage, from knitting lampshades to growing herbs in the garden. Students and staff from the neighboring Academy of Visual Arts have produced art to decorate each room, meaning every guest has a unique view. The design of each room was completed by furniture donated by the public, and also Caritas's own used furniture shop, CARLA. This all goes to show that commitment, flexibility and creative ideas can more than make up for limited financial means. In 2015 magdas HOTEL was rewarded with the Austrian State Prize for Design.
Facts & Figures
- Opened in February 2015
- 20 former refugees and 10 experienced hotel staff
- 16 nationalities
- More than 20 languages spoken
- 88 rooms in five categories, 60% with balconies and three with wheelchair access
- Suites and penthouse have TV and satellite
- Salon with lounge and bar, terrace and library
- ...
Company and contact info
+43 676 45 45 322
Caritas Services GmbH
Office: 1070 Wien, Wimbergergasse 14-16
Company address: 1160 Wien, Albrechtskreithgasse 19-21