THE Stylemate, Issue 03|2023 - Bullshit Machine? Englisch Version by THE Stylemate

THE INSPIRATION FROM AROUND THE WORLD FOR AN AESTHETIC AND MEANINGFUL LIFESTYLE ISSUE N o 03 | 2023 thestylemate.com

Stylemate

Bullshit

Machine ?

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

Essentials Page 3 Mit ChatGPT nach London Page 4–9 LIFE:

Genuss auf höchster Stufe im OLM Nature Escape Page 10 Was würde Buddha dazu sagen? Page 11–13 Franzobel Page 14 STYLE:

Lifestylehotels™ Selection:

Nesslerhof 01

Page LH-Cover

Directory Lifestylehotels™ Page LH 02 The Secret Sölden Page LH 03 Nesslerhof Page LH 4 Gradonna ****s Mountain Resort Chalets & Hotel Page LH 05

KI und die Zukunft Page 15

das MAX Page LH 06

KI und Architekten: Die Kreativität ist freit Page 16–20

Hotel Sand Page LH 07

Mezza—Maiso Page 21 Peloton Page 22–23 CIS Page 24–25 Frei sein im Freiraum Page 26

Issue No 03 | 2023

Essentials

There has been a lot of discussion since AI was made available to everyone in the form of ChatGPT and Midjourney. Is AI intelligent? Have people had their time as a thinking, creative being? What is authentically experienced and felt, and what is just simulated? And how can we tell the difference?

IN THIS ISSUE

Hotel Stein Page LH 08 Boca de Agua Page LH 09 White Desert Page LH 10 Ambiente Sedona Page LH 11

THE Stylemate

The fact is, ChatGPT doesn’t bother about whether its words are true or false, good or bad. It has no idea what it’s producing. It also doesn’t know the boundary between fact and fiction. And it doesn’t have any empathy, so it can’t empathise with people. After all: algorithms don’t have feelings.

PUT A RING ON IT.

DROP IT LIKE IT ’S HOT.

Better than smartwatches – and much better looking. The Oura ring is our favourite new smart piece of jewellery. The ring doesn’t just look good in gold, silver, rose gold and black, it also tracks your sleep and your activity to optimise your fitness. Via the associated app, the ring shows you when you need rest and when you can really push yourself. And because mindfulness is particularly important, the ring also encourages you to engage rest mode if your stress levels are too high – with guided sessions, meditation practice and tips for better health. Because the ring is on your finger and not on your wrist like other wearables, it can accurately measure your heart rate and therefore better process all the data. It’s a real all-rounder.

After a long day sightseeing or on the beach, it’s often not until the evening that you realise you’ve once again forgotten to drink enough water. Especially when tap water on holiday just tastes like chlorine, drinking water can be far from your mind. Thanks to the Waterdrop Smart Bottle, you can kill two birds with one stone: not only does it remind you to drink, it also purifies the tap water at the beach thanks to its innovative UV-C light technology. The drinks bottle is made in Austria, works in tandem with an app and is available with a capacity of 600 ml or one litre. The integrated machine learning actively optimises its performance to improve your drinking behaviour. The high-quality cap made out of bamboo and the elegant borosilicate glass combine form and function. With the Waterdrop Smart Bottle, you’ll never forget to drink enough on holiday again!

ouraring.com, 2 designs / 5 colours, from € 314

Philosopher and literary scholar Hannes Bajohr said in an SFR discussion group that you can’t even vaguely compare ChatGPT with human intelligence. It has no body, it doesn’t live in a world and it doesn’t communicate with people in the way we do. We’re watching a system producing text. As Bajohr puts it: “That means we are dealing with an automated bullshit machine.” The technical term “bullshit” can be traced back to philosopher Harry Frankfurt. He uses it to describe a type of communication that primarily entails feigning something akin to competence without the willingness to interact.

waterdrop.com, Waterdrop, 6 flavours, € 14,90

In this issue, we are looking at AI, experimenting with it and testing it out. But this editorial wasn’t written by ChatGPT – the suggestion it spat out was so boring we didn’t want to subject you to it.

Hotel Heureka Page LH 12 Impressum Page 2

EDITORS

IM PRIN T Media owner and publisher: Prime Time Touristik & Marketing GmbH, Schmiedgasse 38/1, 8010 Graz, Austria

Be sure to subscribe to THE Stylemate so you'll never miss an issue! thestylemate.com

Managing editor: Thomas Holzleithner Layout: VON K Brand Design C over: Hassan Ragab Concept and Editorial Office: René Wentzel, Marlene Zeintlinger, Hannah Stefitz - Agency NEUNZEHN-NULL-VIERProject management: Dominik Thamer - Agency NEUNZEHN-NULL-VIER- Writers: Franzobel Translators: Katherine Nussey Advertising: office@thestylemate.com P rinted by: Medienfabrik Graz, 8020 Graz P ublished in: Graz Publication: 3x yearly

Foto: Heldentheater

Editors: Thomas Holzleithner & Hardy Egger E ditor-in-chief: Mag. Nina Prehofer - Agency NEUNZEHN-NULL-VIER-

Fotos: Geba Teppiche, Lyre’s, EYEWEAR by DAVID BECKHAM, Issey Miyake Parfums, Levi’s X Ambush, Dyson

Thomas Holzleithner & Hardy Egger

FOLD SMART.

INSTAGRAMMABLE.

With the new foldable smartphones, Motorola seamlessly continues the innovation of past years and successfully creates a link between fashion and technology by introducing bright models in this year's Pantone trend colour "Viva Magenta". At the top of the product family is the brand new Motorola Razr40 Ultra, which is characterised by its contemporary and space-saving design. When closed, it presents itself as the thinnest folding smartphone currently on the market. The versatile camera system, improved audio playback and powerful hardware round off the overall package.

With the Insta360 X3 camera, you can say goodbye to boring beach holiday photos. This AI-powered camera creates breathtaking footage, both under the water and on land, and automatically stabilises the image. Unlike standard underwater cameras, the selfie stick is automatically filtered out and the protective cover is invisible. The live streams, videos and photos that can be created afterwards using the Insta360 app are powered by AI to touch up the blue shadows that can lead to imperfections in underwater photos and generate realistic images. All footage is captured in 360° and can be subsequently reframed.

motorola.com, Motorola Razr 40 in 3 verschiedenen Farben, ab € 1.199

D I E S E R

insta360.com, from € 500

AU S G A B E

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

HEY CHATGPT. I’M TRAVELLING TO

LIFE

London.

TRAVELLING ALWAYS INVOLVES PLANNING. A LOT OF IT. WHERE ARE WE GOING? WHAT DO WE WANT TO DO? WHAT DO WE WANT TO SEE? WHERE’S BEST TO GRAB A COFFEE, SNACK , LUNCH, DINNER, DRINKS? THERE ARE TOO MANY QUESTIONS FOR SOMEONE WHO LOVES TO EXPLORE AND SEE NEW PLACES BUT HATES THE PLANNING PART OF IT – THE ENDLESS SCROLLING THROUGH INSTAGRAM AND TIKTOK TO FIND THE LATEST HOTSPOTS. SO, I ASKED CHATGPT.

Nestled in a picturesque part of London, Richmond sits right on the river, creating a scene straight off a postcard. Imagine people taking a leisurely stroll with their dogs, an abundance of flowers in bloom, charming coffee shops and quintessential pubs. Our day commenced with a delightful riverside walk, immersing ourselves in the beauty of Richmond. Our destination? Tide Tables Café right next to the river.

Our next stop was the popular Richmond Green, a lovely open space in the heart of the town. It’s the perfect spot to chill after walking through Richmond and taking photos of everything you see because it’s just so pretty. Before we sat down

in Richmond Green, though, we made a detour to the popular Gelateria Danieli for some scrumptious gelato. It was delish! For food and drinks, we decided to stop at Pitcher and Piano, right next to the river. While not a ChatGPT recommendation, its captivating view prompted us to embrace spontaneity and give it a shot. It’s definitely worth a try, especially with its riverside ambience. Another culinary gem worth mentioning is The Ivy, centrally located in Richmond and a mere stone’s throw from the river. This establishment promises an experience that’s not to be missed.

DAY

Photo: Unsplash

EXPLORING RICHMOND

This charming café is known for its excellent coffee and cosy atmosphere. It wasn’t only ChatGPT that recommended it to me but also my friend from London. And they were both right. Vibrant dishes, flaky croissants, luscious French toast, delectable waffles and artisanal coffee comprised our meal – an experience beyond compare.

H E Y C HATGP T! WE ’R E I N LON D ON F OR F OUR DAYS AN D STAYI NG I N R IC H MON D. C AN YOU PL E ASE PL AN AN I T I N ERA RY F OR US? WE LOVE A G O OD C OF F E E , WAN T TO SEE S OM E A RT I N STA L L AT ION S – NO T H I NG OU T OF T H E OR DI NARY T HOUGH. WE A LS O L I K E B O OK S, MA R K ET S, N IC E PHOTO SP OTS AN D A G O OD DI N N ER AN D DR I N K S. NO T H I NG T O O TOU R IST Y, PL E ASE .

And off it went. It started typing out a full itinerary for us. On day 1 you do this, on day 2 you do that. I made a few tweaks, added a few more areas in London I wanted to see so it didn’t just cover west London, and then we had it. Four perfectly planned days in London.

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

LIFE

On the second day, following ChatGPT’s guidance, we bid farewell to the charms of Richmond and ventured deeper into the heart of central London. Given our shared affection for both coffee and books, ChatGPT ingeniously directed us to Baker Street. From there, we walked to our first stop – Boxcar Baker in Marylebone. This is a cute little café with flowers and plants hanging from the walls and the TikTokfamous filled croissants. And even though it is small, it wasn’t overly crowded. Fully embracing our holiday spirit, we treated ourselves to an assortment of mouth-watering pastries and ordered a pair of expertly crafted coffees to kickstart the day. With our appetites satisfied and caffeine coursing through our veins, we embarked on the next leg of our journey. Daunt Books in Marylebone Street. If you’re a book lover, this is the place to be. Marylebone High Street is appealing enough on its own, but Daunt Books

makes it even better. This two-storey book shop has every book and genre an avid reader could possibly need – we even found an Austrian section there. I would definitely suggest going up to the second floor to get a full view of the book shop. Thanks to ChatGPT, we explored London by foot that day because everything was in walking distance (if you’re up to walking 30k steps a day, that is). So, from Marylebone High Street we walked down Marylebone Lane to the very busy and touristy Oxford Street. But if you’re up for a shopping trip, it’s perfect. Once we left the bustling main road, we found Carnaby Street and Sophie Tea Art. Sophie Tea Art isn’t your usual art gallery, it’s more of a café with a gallery and interactive rooms where you can get creative. Definitely worth a visit! After making that trip, we were a little hungry and headed for Covent Garden. I know I asked ChatGPT for non-touristy places but ever since my first London visit, I have loved this area, and seeing as it wasn’t too far from Carnaby Street (again,

if the 30k steps a day are manageable), I decided to squeeze it in. Covent Garden presents a delightful fusion of culinary hotspots and vintage stalls, each offering a cornucopia of treasures ranging from exquisite jewellery and watches to quintessentially British teacups and an array of other delights. Beyond the visual and tactile allure, Covent Garden also stands out for its food scene. Out of the options available, I wholeheartedly endorse a visit to Buns & Buns, a culinary gem serving up delectable Asian cuisine. Last but not least, we headed back up to Tottenham Court Road station. I asked ChatGPT to show me some new art installations and that’s exactly what we got. Near the station we found a free 360-degree immersive art installation that changes theme from time to time. When we got there, the 23,000-squarefoot walls were plastered floor to ceiling in diamonds and there were glass sheds that changed colour – very psychedelic and a real experience!

DAY

WE ST LON D ON C HAR M On our third day, we decided to explore more of west London – Kensington and Notting Hill.

We started our day with coffee and sweet treats again – the usual. This time at Gail’s bakery in Notting Hill, a cosy spot offering freshly baked goods and quality coffee. We then set off to explore the picturesque streets of Notting Hill, known for their colourful houses and charming boutiques. It must be one of the most visually appealing areas in London. But beware – during the bank holiday weekend at the end of August, Notting Hill plays host to a wonderfully vibrant and diverse carnival, the biggest in Europe with two million visitors from all over the world. During those three days, the tranquil, quaint Notting Hill is transformed into THE location for fun, music and dancing. Photo: Unsplash

ART AN D EXPLORAT ION

My advice? Try and see both sides! From Notting Hill we walked to visit the Design Museum in Kensington, where you can explore the world of design, architecture and contemporary art. Afterwards, we had lunch at Portobello Road Market, a traditional London market with antiques, fashion and street food. It’s my second favourite after Covent Garden! As the day transitioned into evening, we had the pleasure of reuniting with friends who live locally at yet another impeccable ChatGPT recommendation – The Ledbury. This esteemed establishment, boasting two Michelin stars, beckoned with its promise of modern French cuisine, renowned for its creativity and culinary prowess. Widely regarded as a must-visit epicurean destination in London, The Ledbury lived up to its reputation and then some. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary, making for the ideal end to our London journey and a great way to catch up with cherished friends.

DAY

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

LIFE

L ASTMINUTE STOP S

One of the last tweaks I made during my ChatGPT request was to add a list of last-minute stops not too far from Liverpool Street station, which is where we would be catching our train to the airport. Since we still had all afternoon to explore before we had to leave, I decided to squeeze some of them in. We started off at Spitalfields Market – a massive market with lots of different food stalls and vintage vendors. It was the perfect place for last-minute shopping and picking up something on the go while strolling through the artsy streets.

T HAN K S CHATGP T, SEE YOU N EX T T I M E ! T WEA K S TO T H E L IST I T GIVE S YOU BY ASKI NG MOR E QU E ST ION S AN D REF I N I NG YOU R R E QU E ST. I T ’S DE F I N I T E LY A GR E AT ADDI T ION TO T RAVEL PL ANN I NG AN D A LOT L E SS HASSL E !

Photo: Unsplash

M Y C ONCLUSION A B OU T T RAVE L L I NG WI T H CHATGP T I S T HAT I T MADE T RAVE L L I NG AN D PL AN N I NG A L O T E A SI ER WH I L E S T I L L A L L OWI NG M E TO SP ON TAN E OU SLY S T OP OR A DD S OM E OT H ER PL ACES . M Y T I P IS T O ASK CHATGP T E XAC T LY WHAT YOU WAN T AN D MA K E L I T T L E

From Spitalfields Market we set off for Brick Lane in Shoreditch – famous for its graffiti and street art. However, Brick Lane’s allure extends beyond its artistic splendour; it’s a haven for vintage aficionados, as well. The numerous vintage shops lining the streets offer a captivating journey through fashion’s storied past. Moreover, the area’s appeal is further enhanced by a diverse array of food stalls to satisfy every culinary craving. Shoreditch, and particularly Brick Lane, is a mecca for vintage enthusiasts and creative spirits, capturing the essence of a dynamic and ever-evolving London. On the way back to Liverpool Street station, I would absolutely recommend a stop at London Wall to have a look at the Gherkin and the rest of the skyscrapers – it’s an iconic London view!

DAY

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

LIFE

ADVERTORIAL

SELF- CARE WOULD NEVER HAVE BECOME A THING WITHOUT AN ENLIGHTENED BUDDHA . SO, MINDFULNESS AND BUDDHA? THAT FITS! BUT MINDFULNESS AND ARTI FIC I AL I NT EL L IG ENCE – HOW D O T H EY G O T O G E T H ER? W EL L , T H EY D O ! THAT ’S WHY WE’RE TAKING A TONGUE-IN- CHEEK LOOK AT YOUNG BUDDHA AND SEEING WHAT AI CAN DO FOR OUR WELL-BEING TODAY.

W H AT WOU LD

Exquisite

Buddha

enjoyment

SAY ?

Text: Rene Wentzel

AT OL M NAT UR E ES CAPE .

What makes this concept so special? Guests at OLM have the opportunity to benefit from the gastronomic offering at PRENN°. Five evenings a week, they can book an APÉRO dinner in a relaxing setting and choose from a selection of tapas that fuse Alpine and Mediterranean influences. Two evenings a week, it’s possible to book the OLM dinner with a four-course menu that changes theme and is extremely varied. What’s more, the kitchens in the apart-suites offer the option of preparing your own meals. Guests receive a specially developed recipe booklet when they check in and can purchase almost all of the ingredients in the OLM shop. If you would rather visit a restaurant in the local area, we can recommend good South Tyrolean pubs, mountain restaurants, pizzerias, wine bars and premium award-winning restaurants.

Can you tell us about the name? The name PRENN° stems from the original farmstead, Prennhof. Because the kitchen was always a central meeting place at farms, the intention is that the open front cooking area at OLM Nature Escape should also be a place where guests meet. The ° symbol in the name represents the circle that’s used as the architectural trademark of OLM Nature Escape. PRENN° is a meeting place, characterised by hospitality, conviviality and cuisine. We have a passion for enjoyment, in a sense. Berni and Theodor, how did the partnership come about? The partnership is a result of a recommendation from Thomas Steiner, the ideas man behind OLM Nature Escape and a friend of mine. We developed the culinary concept together with award-winning chef Theodor Falser. We clicked straight away because of our passion for cooking and love of high-quality produce. It also turns out that we’re the same age, so deciding to work together was incredibly easy. How was it for the two of you to create the breakfast offering and the APÉRO dinner as the head of cuisine at PRENN° and a Michelin-star chef? It was an exciting task. We had a basic concept to work from, which was shaped by Theodor’s many years of experience.

It was and is fun to implement new ideas and balance the traditional and the modern. The main focus is always that the produce is of high quality. Theodor is a global player and I have strong roots in the Tauferer Ahrntal, so we complement each other brilliantly. We place great emphasis on ensuring every product has a story and providing high-quality, healthy options. OLM Nature Escape is a little different to the norm and you should be able to sense that in every bite. Berni, in addition to the APÉRO dinner, there is also the OLM dinner every Tuesday and Friday, developed in-house and with a varying theme. Which themes can guests look forward to and how do you design these menus? The OLM dinner is offered with different themes that are shaped by local traditions, regional produce from short supply chains and Mediterranean influences. We always incorporate organic produce in our menus, too. Every OLM dinner comprises an OLM greeting plus four other courses, each of which corresponds with the chosen theme. Without being able to go into more detail here, our menus are presented with topics like “Forest”, “DANN South Tyrol” and “Mountain & Mediterranean”. We also offer a vegetarian option and, on request, can prepare an attractive vegan option.

OL M NAT URE ES CA PE WI L L OPEN I TS D O ORS I N DECEM BE R 2023. T H E E C O APART HOT E L ISN ’ T J U ST AN ARC H IT ECT URA L EYE- CAT C H E R , T H E K I T C H E N A LS O OF F ERS A T RULY SPECIA L CUL I NA RY CONCEP T. WE I NVI T E D BE R N I AIC H N E R (H E AD OF C U ISI N E ) AN D T H EOD OR FA L SE R (M IC H E L I N - S TA R C H E F ) TO JOI N US AT T H E TA BL E S O WE COUL D F I N D OU T MOR E AB OU T T H E I DE AS BE H I N D PR E N N °. olm.it

Foto: Hannes Niederkofler

Berni, could you please tell us about the PRENN° concept for OLM Nature Escape? The new culinary concept for OLM Nature Escape is vastly different to the concept employed in conventional hotels. There is no half or three-quarter board. Instead, we offer our guests a wide range of culinary options so they can individually tailor their holiday when it comes to food. We place particular emphasis on providing a healthy, regional breakfast with a high proportion of organic produce.

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

LIFE PRAC T I SE M E DI TAT ION AN D M I N DF U L N ESS

AI-supported apps like Calm and Headspace offer meditation and mindfulness exercises tailored to the needs and progress of its users. They employ sophisticated analytics processes to combat stress and anxiety and allow for greater self-reflection, peace and calmness.

or all the enlightenment even Buddha didn’t know the path to tranquillity. That is, if we are to believe oral tradition and indulge the stories of stressful moments: Buddha may have been privileged enough to be born in his father’s royal palace and spend his life there in prosperity. But he wasn’t allowed to leave the venerable walls. Not even as the prince that he was, curious about his people, instead being imprisoned for years without any contact with the outside world – terribly sad. At 16 he married his cousin, who gave birth to a son: Rahula. But would you call your child “fetter” if everything were hunky-dory, ommm? And we haven’t even started on the harem Buddha had, which must have comprised up to 60,000 women. The number alone would have even today’s hypermachos and their patriarchal contemporaries sinking deep into a state of impotence. In those days, more than two thousand years ago, Buddha was also known as Siddhartha, meaning “he who has attained his goal”. So finally, he was allowed to leave the palace. He took four trips to see his people and realised that mindfulness was the best way to overcome life’s difficulties. For that reason, he started meditating for 49 days underneath a poplar fig tree. But a demon wanted to distract Buddha from following the path to enlightenment by sending not only his seductive daughters but also evil spirits. Poor Buddha – oh how he suffered.

PRE SSURE I S A NO -NO

So many questions spring to mind – life’s way too serious already, right? Would AI have had a positive effect on young Buddha? For example, would he have been able to discuss his feelings better with chatbots and find out more about his state of mind? Would he have been allowed to wear a smart watch on his contemplative little wrist in order to receive biofeedback in real time – 140 over 90, careful young man? And finally, would his poplar tree session have turned out considerably shorter thanks to sophisticated meditation and mindfulness apps because woodland sounds and calming voices ensure demons are sent off to Nirvana? Meditating for 49 days? Pfft, we don’t have time for that! At least not these days. We live in a state of restlessness between fast forward and slow food, between career pressure and gender inequality, individualism and new family configurations, climate change and international geopolitical status. And when it all gets too much for us, we take our own trips. But even at our dream holiday destination, we can’t manage to turn off the longing for search engine-optimised and social media-worthy visibility. Dependency. Stress. Attachment. Poor us. At least there would be plenty of artificial intelligence technologies. They can help us to find ourselves again, to be more mindful in how we speak to ourselves, to live in a healthier and more balanced way. Can we manage that? With AI? We wish. And then everything would be all Buddha again.

AI also has its benefits in the workplace. It analyses patterns of behaviour and helps to identify patterns and triggers of stress. It can also propose exercises for reducing stress in order to increase productivity and promote mental health.

BIOF E E DBACK IS MORE T HAN WE ARABL E

Wearables are worn directly on the body, like the Apple Smart Watch, smart jewellery or smart clothes with built-in technology. They measure biometric data like blood pressure, blood sugar levels and heart rate in real time and send alerts if they record bad figures. By interacting with AI, they can also recommend tailored relaxation techniques.

SHOW M E S OM E E MOT ION!

Tired, sad, happy? Using image processing algorithms and neuronal networks, AI can recognise faces and emotions, for example based on eyebrow movements, the shape of the mouth and posture. Apps like Kintsugi work with audio journaling: using sentiment analysis of emotions, they check the emotional state of the person trying it and make recommendations such as mindfulness meditation.

TAL KI NG F ROM T H E S OU L

Speaking about stress and similar problems in order to get strategies to solve the problem? Chatbots like ChatGPT make this possible. But what if brain activity were also carefully transmitted to it: all AI tools need to consider data protection and transparency, plus ethical issues to ensure that AI contributes to people’s wellbeing. Alternatively, there are still the good old analogue options: finding a quiet place, sitting, closing your eyes – and letting go.

Issue No 03 | 2023

FRANZOBEL is an Austrian writer. He has published numerous plays, works of prose and poems. His plays have been produced in countries including Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Denmark, France, Poland, Romania, Ukraine, Italy, Russia and the USA.

Selection

THE Stylemate

Lifestylehotels™ lifestylehotels.net

LIFE

His great historical adventure novel “Das Floß der Medusa” (published by Zsolnay) was awarded the Bayerischer Buchpreis (Bavarian Book Award) 2017 and was on the shortlist for the German Book Prize 2017.

Many things are new at the Nesslerhof. Because the hosts Tina and Hermann Neudegger have listened very carefully to the guests’ wishes. Since summer 2023, these wishes have been the basis for new buildings and renovations at the Nesslerhof - for an even more relaxing holiday destination.

The new world is devoid of humour. People are being axed left, right and centre. Replacing real people with self-driving buses, fully automated supermarket checkouts and airline phone lines is like a lottery win. And now artificial intelligence? Soon, machines will be able to do everything, even generate deceptively authentic articles. Does this mean the end of all certainty? The end of all jobs? Being sceptical of progress is as old as humanity itself. There were doubters way back when the wheel was invented. And with good reason: people are rarely willing to use progress for the greater good. Efficiency always comes at the expense of humanity. AI also isn’t capable of being creative. It can predict weather phenomena and share prices and copy art styles, but it can’t yet create something genuinely new. It doesn’t create new experiences but rather figures out probabilities. AI doesn’t understand humour, but it is much more intelligent than us. Let’s suppose for a moment that it’s employed by large organisations. There is already what’s called the grandchild trick: crooks masquerade on the phone as a relative in need who requires money urgently. What would happen if something like this were aided by AI? It’s enough when it wants to flog you something, using our responses to decipher what we’re looking for. We would be at its mercy, unable to work out whether we’re dealing with a man or a machine. The internet is a democratic medium. In theory, the free availability of information should make people more intelligent, but the opposite is happening. The average intelligence of industrial nations is declining. Why?

We’re going gaga

Photos: Nesslerhof

“Being sceptical of progress is as old as humanity itself.“

Because everything’s about attention and clicks? Fake news, click farms, influencers… plus the general readiness to be distracted by nonsense. We’re going gaga! AI will accelerate this. Soon, it will provide good conversation. But music you can sense the soul of the artist in? Art that asks the major questions of our time? Genuine feelings? Why not? AI’s ability to learn is so incredible that it will soon be writing good books and producing blockbuster films – without any actual actors. But the algorithms won’t make the most exciting ones, they’ll make the ones most suitable for the masses. AI created by people will shape the world as it is for people: rational, causal, purposeful, profitable. The element of intuition won’t come into it. When the deal with the devil turns against us at some point, we will have forgotten everything because we’ve willingly opted for dependency. Even now, very few people can read a map anymore. What remains of a person when they’re nothing more than a consumer? A cretin without a future? AI raises the question of what is actually human. Everything we know has been thought about by humans, experienced with a human body that’s liable to injury, forgetful and driven by instincts. AI has no body. How would it describe nature? It, which doesn’t have to reproduce because it’s immortal? As soon as it has a consciousness, will it consider everything biological to be useless? Is it possible that machines could soon rule the world? They don’t need air or water and have infinite time to conquer the universe. People have always been sceptical of technology, but in the case of AI, they have good reason to be. And now you get to guess whether this text was written by AI or a person.

Photo: Dirk Skiba

F RAN ZOBEL

03 / 23

(+)

HOTEL NESSLERHOF Austria / Salzburg / Großarl Natural happiness that meets guest requests. More on p. 03.

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

Austria / Tyrol / Sölden

In the legendary winter sports destination of Sölden in the heart of the Ötztal Alps, you’ll find THE SECRET, a mystical and magical resort that opened its doors in March 2022 following extensive renovation and expansion work.

The Secret Sölden, Sölden (LH 03) Hotel Nesslerhof, Großarl (LH 04) Gradonna Mountain Resort, Kals am Großglockner (LH 05) dasMAX, Seefeld in Tyrol (LH 06) Hotel Sand, Timmendorfer Strand (LH 07) Hotel Stein , Salzburg (LH 08) Boca de Agua, Bacalar (LH 09) White Desert, Antarctica (LH 10) Ambiente Sedona Sedona (LH 11) Hotel Heureka, Venice (LH 12)

IN THIS ISSUE

THE SECRET SÖLDEN

(+)

THE SECRET SÖLDEN Austria / Tyrol / Sölden the-secret-soelden.com The place to be in Sölden.

Lifestylehotels™ Directory ANTARCTICA

BELGIUM

ANTARCTICA White Desert

ANTWERP Hotel august ANTWERP Hotel Julien

AUSTRIA

BAD GOISERN AM HALLSTÄTTERSEE Hallstatt Hideaway

Mountain | Lesehotel DAMÜLS Alpenstern Panoramahotel FISS Alps Lodge FÜGEN Mia Alpina Zillertal Family Retreat GASCHURN Montafon Lodge Design Lodgehotel und Spa GEINBERG Geinberg5 Private Spa Villas GRAZ Aiola Living GRAZ Augarten Art Hotel GRAZ Kai 36 GROSSARL Hotel Nesslerhof HALLSTATT Hallstatt Hideaway HINTERSTODER Triforet Alpin Resort KALS AM GROSSGLOCKNER Gradonna Mountain Resort KALTENBACH Das Kaltenbach KITZBÜHEL Alpenhotel Kitzbühel am Schwarzsee LEOGANG Puradies Mein Naturresort LUNZ AM SEE Refugium Lunz MARIA ALM Hotel Eder MARIA ALM Hotel SEPP MAYRHOFEN ElisabethHotel Premium Private Retreat MELLAU S onne Lifestyle Resort MÜHLDORF La Petite Ivy NAUDERS Arabella Retreat & Spa OBERGURGL The Crystal VAYA Unique SAALBACH HINTERGLEMM Alpin Juwel SALZBURG Hotel Goldgasse SALZBURG Hotel Stein SCHLADMING Stadthotel Brunner SEE Bergwiesenglück SEEFELD dasMAX SEEFELD/MÖSERN Nidum Casual Luxury Hotel SERFAUS Alfa Hotel SÖLDEN Bergland Design and Wellness Hotel Sölden SÖLDEN T he Secret Sölden STAINACH-PÜRGG Gästehaus Krenn UDERNS IM ZILLERTAL Sportresidenz Zillertal VIENNA Hotel Das Tyrol ZELL AM SEE Senses Violett Suites

CROATIA

BALE/ISTRIA Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery BRAČ Hotel Lemongarden

STARI GRAD/HVAR Maslina Resort

GERMANY

GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN Das Graseck PIRNA Laurichhof

TIMMENDORFER STRAND Sand

TIMMENDORFER STRAND SeeHuus

GREECE

AMALIADA/PELOPONNESE Dexamenes Seaside Hotel

MEXICO

MEXICO CITY La Valise Mexico City QUINTANA ROO Boca de Agua

SAN MIGUEL La Valise San Miguel TULUM La Valise Tulum

PORTUGAL

ALENTEJO Sublime Comporta Country Retreat & Spa ALGARVE Vila Valverde

AZORES Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort AZORES White Exclusive Suites & Villas LISBON Torel Palace Lisbon

MADEIRA Quinta da Bela Vista PORTO Torel Avantgarde

PORTO Torel Palace Porto

PORTO Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments

SPAIN

MYKONOS The Wild by Interni

ARTÀ Es Racó d’Artà

SIFNOS Verina Terra

MALLORCA Fontsanta Hotel Thermal Spa & Wellness

SIFNOS Verina Astra

INDONESIA SUMBA Nihi Sumba

ITALY

APUGLIA Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa CAMAIORE Locanda al Colle

CALABRIA Praia Art Resort

LIMONE SUL GARDA EALA My Lakeside Dream

MALLORCA Convent de la Missio

MALLORCA Pleta de Mar

MALLORCA LJs Ratxó Eco-Luxury Retreat

TENERIFE Ecohotel El Agua

SWEDEN

LAPLAND Treehotel

SWITZERLAND

MATERA Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita

LUCERNE Hotel des Balances

MONTEFOLLONICO Follonico

ZERMATT Hotel Matterhorn Focus

MERANO Steinach Townhouse Meran

NAZ NEAR BRESSANONE Seehof Nature Retreat RIMINI i-Suite

RIPOSTO Zash Country Boutique Hotel

SANTO STEFANO DI SESSANIO Sextantio Albergo Diffuso

SICILY Monaci delle Terre Nere

A magical retreat in the

MALLORCA Hotel Can Simoneta

VALLÉE DE JOUX Hotel des Horlogers

USA

ARIZONA AmbienteTM Sedona

ST. LEONHARD Apfelhotel Torgglerhof TYROL Culinaria Living

The demand for aesthetics and quality is central to LifestylehotelsTM vision of a modern hotel industry and it is inextricably linked to its

Information straight from the source. lifestylehotels.net

The best price. The best availability.

Photo: Dengler Matthias

commitment to sustainability and mindfulness. Direct contact with the hotel.

The location of the resort may be quiet, but it’s also very central – THE SECRET is just 400 metres from the centre of town and 200 metres from the Gaislachkogelbahn cable car valley station, which in winter will get you to guaranteed snow at 3,000 metres in twelve minutes. Up here, where the BIG3 Schwarze Schneid (3,340 m), Tiefenbachgletscher (3,307 m) and Gaislachkogel (3,048 m) tower majestically, it’s like the whole world is at your feet. As are the pistes for the skiers. The three 3,000-metre peaks are accessible via cable car, meaning you can combine all three into one of the longest ski runs in the Alps. After a long and eventful day in the mountains, the evening is time for dinner at the hotel. And a special one at that. The informal restaurant LA’LIV serves up delicious indulgence from the Alps and

SOUTH TYROL OLM Nature Escape

VENICE Hotel Heureka

Stylish retreats for inspiring timeouts.

For guests who are looking for both a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a retreat in nature, the modern lifestyle hotel is the place to be. THE SECRET is located at the top end of Sölden, where the sun shines for the whole day and you can sleep at night with the windows open to the calming sounds of the Ötztaler Ache that runs behind the hotel. Anyone who fancies a swim when they get up can do just that in the new outdoor pool, which is open from early morning so guests can submerge themselves indoors and resurface outdoors. Or the other way round.

beyond, and interprets it with a fusion of French and Alpine influences. Seasonal produce from the region is harmoniously and boldly combined with the flavours of Provence – resulting in dishes like Charolais beef with local vegetables or Ötztal char with a Chardonnay emulsion. And after that? The best option is to make your way back up, but not up the 3,000-metre giants this time – up to the roof of the hotel. Here, you’ll find the spectacular THE VUE sky bar. This bar has a partially glazed ceiling that offers a view of the star-studded night sky, stateof-the-art video and sound installations and an extravagant, unique interior, all of which has helped it become a popular venue for occasions like weddings and birthdays. The interior, with floor-to-ceiling windows that face the striking mountain landscape, and the large terrace create the ideal setting for such events. Guests can book the whole resort or just the sky bar for their exclusive use, so THE SECRET team work according to people’s specific ideas and needs to ensure everything runs smoothly. And because no event is complete without the right drinks, THE VUE boasts an international bar menu featuring cocktails, classics and signature drinks created by bar manager Lukas Keppler and his team for their guests using products from local gin and vodka distillers. It’s like a fusion of international and Alpine that’s a perfect fit for the cosmopolitan style of THE SECRET.

Alps

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

HOTEL NESSLERHOF

Austria / Salzburg / Großarl

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

A warm welcome and desire for vitality? Over the last few years, the owners of the Nesslerhof, Tina and Hermann Neudegger, and their team of “guest whisperers” have listened very closely to what guests want from their next holiday at the Nesslerhof. These requests formed the basis of extension and building works, of an even more relaxing and diverse holiday destination. A destination full of vitality, or what you might call natural happiness.

GRADONNA****S MOUNTAIN RESORT

Austria / Tyrol / Kals am Großglockner

From the chalet or hotel straight into pure snow and piste fun - this unique ski-in/ski-out experience is offered by the car-free Gradonna****s Mountain Resort in the middle of the Großglockner Resort Kals-Matrei ski area.

Powder, here we come Winter sports fans take note: the winter season at the Gradonna****s Mountain Resort starts on 8 December 2023. Located at 1,350 metres above sea level, the resort features 42 chalets and a hotel, and is the ideal base for anyone after fun times on the snow and the slopes. Families with children in particular will get their money’s worth at the Gradonna because the car-free resort isn’t just right in the middle of the Kals-Matrei ski resort on the Großglockner, it also offers guests a ski school and ski pass service plus a free beginners’ area in the resort. That means you can clip in right outside the hotel or chalet and make your way down the slope in a state of skiing bliss! What’s especially attractive for families is that with the Ski)Hit ski pass, children under six can whizz down pistes for free, while school-age children and teens under 18 go half price. A very appealing bonus is the fresh air up here – mountain air is proven to lower your heart rate and blood pressure, meaning your cardiovascular system is better protected.

But that’s not all the news and latest on the renovation: work is currently being carried out on expanding sechzehndreiundvierzig (1643), where a total of four different room categories are being created. From winter 2023, it will be home to brand new suites featuring an Alpine and modern design. “It’s called sechzehndreiundvierzig because that’s the year the Nesslerhof was first mentioned,” says Tina, revealing the secret behind the name of the extension. And of course, the guest requests for the spa haven’t gone unnoticed. In future, wellness lovers won’t just be able to enjoy the lovely adults-only spa with its various saunas and eight relaxation rooms, but also a new, impressive 1,370 m² water landscape. The outdoor pool with integrated hot tub and loungers was extended to 25 metres based on numerous guest requests. It is positioned alongside the natural swimming pond, whose water area has also been enlarged to approx. 800 m². New relaxation spaces and seating areas plus a small garden bar in the spa round off the wellness offering during your holiday or spa day.

HOTEL NESSLERHOF Austria / Salzburg / Großarl nesslerhof.at Natural happiness that meets guest requests.

GRADONNA****S MOUNTAIN RESORT Austria / Tyrol / Kals am Großglockner gradonna.at Ski-IN, Ski-OUT - naturally.

Photos: Gert Perauer

(+)

Photos: Nesslerhof

Feel the spirit of natural happiness

Highlights since July 2023: We were curious and invited hotel owner Tina Neudegger for an interview. “At the hotel, the demand among guests for large suites with their own spa was very high. For that reason, we’ve made the suites on the fourth floor of the main building even more luxurious,” explains Tina. All of the suites on the top floor now boast large terraces and an unparalleled view, and four of them have a hot tub or sauna in the outdoor area. “The highlight is our 194 m2 rooftop suite Bergmagie with its own 3 x 8 metre pool and a sauna on the south-facing terrace. While swimming, you can marvel at the unobstructed view of the striking Großarl mountain landscape – it’s like nothing you’ll find anywhere else,” enthuses Tina. The popular south-facing double rooms have also been extended, and you can now watch the sunrise and sunset from the bath. Other new features in the main building include a large dining area, cosy restaurants, two new terraces – one with hazy morning sun and one with warm evening sun – a blossoming garden full of herbs and other plants, a wine room and the hotel bar called The Spirit, which is perfect for cosy evenings by the fire. And of course, your car will get a treat as well, because it’ll be parked in the new two-storey underground car park, where all cars will now be kept safe and dry, and charged if they’re electric.

In addition to the unique ski-in, ski-out experience, the lifestyle resort attracts guests with its obvious commitment to sustainability concepts. A smart energy supply, focus on regionality and nature-inspired architecture shape the corporate philosophy, for which the resort has won awards such as the World Travel Award in 2022, which is considered the Oscar of the tourism industry. The Gradonna****s Mountain Resort prevailed in the category World’s Leading Mountain Resort 2022 against premium hotels in Italy and the USA, and in doing so confirmed that “our sustainable concept isn’t just fit for the future, but also ensures positive reactions in the present,” says Gradonna manager Thomas Krobath with delight.

The sustainability concept continues in the spacious spa area with Kals marble, a lot of wood and fresh mountain source water. Various saunas warm and soothe tired skiers’ legs, and you can also take a dip in the pleasantly heated indoor and outdoor pools or solar-heated bathing pond complete with view of the Großglockner. The youngest guests can splash around in the separate children’s swimming pool heated to a cosy 34ºC and equipped with small slides. And if you want to look after yourself a bit more, why not indulge in a treatment by our therapists and spa staff using high-quality products from the Magdalena’s – made in Tyrol natural cosmetics range, which guarantees sustainable well-being. Winter season 2023, we’re ready for you!

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

DASMAX

Austria / Tyrol / Seefeld

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

Germany / Timmendorfer Strand

The lifestyle hotel SAND on Timmendorfer Strand is not only the perfect place to discover the Baltic Sea in summer. Particularly in autumn and winter, when the sea is rough, the sky is wide and thoughts are free, it's a particularly good place to come down and relax for a long time.

A glimpse of the future (+)

HOTEL SAND

Come rain or shine

DASMAX Österreich / Tirol / Seefeld dasmax.at Nordic minimalism in prime location.

Lifestylehotels: What are you currently working on? Alexander Meissl: I’m spending a lot of time in Vienna for work, mostly because of our complex project at the Döbling Private Hospital. We are extending the hospital and incorporating many aspects of a hotel under the motto “Recover like you’re on holiday”. We won an architectural competition and our design is inspired by the Bauhaus style, which is also evident from the outside. In the interior, we blend the functional features of a hospital with design in order to create an atmosphere that’s similar to that of a hotel. Our projects have received sustainability certifications. We’re also working on another eight or nine hotel projects in various locations, including Kitzbühel, Bavaria and Arlberg, plus a new solid timber frame hotel project in the Zillertal valley. And the dasMAX in Seefeld, which we brought to life five years ago and has continued to evolve since then.

Lifestylehotels: dasMAX is celebrating its fifth anniversary this December. What has happened there over the last five years, is there a new dynamic there too? Alexander Meissl: dasMAX has now established itself on the Seefeld hotel scene and become a big thing. It may be a small hotel, but it has great significance and has had a positive reception throughout the season. We have really good occupancy rates, far higher than the regional average.

Lifestylehotels: Is the application of AI a feature of your projects? Alexander Meissl: Certainly, but it’s important to clarify what AI means and whether it’s a blessing or a curse when it’s used in the right way. In our industry, AI is a blessing. We’re already using various programs and designing interior spaces with AI. Specialist knowledge is required to use it, but we’re able to generate several design options in a very short time. Having said that, AI isn’t able to take all of the details into consideration, and that’s why ultimately the human factor is still necessary.

Lifestylehotels: Has it evolved? Alexander Meissl: A business requires around two or three years to look through everything thoroughly. During this time, little has changed, just some minor maintenance work like painting the walls. For two years, the hotel has been run by manager Carmen, who does so with such dedication it’s as if it were her own. Carmen brings a unique sense of humanity and femininity to the hotel, something AI could never achieve. Her passion and commitment are tangible and underscore the importance of personalised hospitality and well-being. This comparison between AI and the human factor is especially noticeable in the everyday running of the hotel. Lifestylehotels: What does a hotel need these days in order to function? Alexander Meissl: It’s difficult to gauge it in a general way. This year, luxury hotels in particular have faced a lot of challenges. Successful hotels are those that manage to accommodate guests over a period of ten months and offer an entertaining experience regardless of the weather. dasMAX fulfils all of these criteria. No matter what the season or the weather, it’s the ideal place for a relaxing holiday or break.

HOTEL SAND Germany / Timmendorfer Strand hotelsand.de Adults-only lifestyle hotel sustainable & cool on the Baltic coast.

Photo: SAND, TSNT GmbH

In the fast-paced world of architecture and hotel operations, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) is now opening up a whole host of fascinating opportunities. We spoke to Alexander Meissl from Meissl Architects about it. He explained to us the enduring importance of hospitality and the human factor and the link with the dasMAX.

(+)

Photo: dasMAX

Lifestylehotels: So you don’t think AI will replace our work in the future? Alexander Meissl: Our goal is to make work easier with AI, not to replace it. In the hotel industry, we’re curious to see how AI influences the design of amenities. There will most likely be a specialism for designers and architects who make optimal use of AI. The design of lounge areas in hotels is becoming more diverse to meet the needs of various target groups. What does a bar look like? Is there even a bar? Does it look like the restaurant? I think the whole lounge area will take on a completely different dynamic for guests.

Lifestylehotels: What is the concept for the dasMAX? What were your considerations? Alexander Meissl: We positioned dasMAX as a budget design hotel by Seefelders for Seefeld. Large chain hotels don’t work in our region, which is why having an alternative for visiting design enthusiasts is extremely welcome. They want to have a nice place from which they can explore the area. That’s how it works and is perceived.

KEEP IT COOL, SUSTAINABLE AND FREE AT THE SAND SANDwindandweather – that’s probably the best way to describe the feeling of freedom that comes over you when you can visit the Baltic Sea in autumn and winter. The sea is rough and vast, the wind forms imaginative shapes in the clouds, the fresh breeze buffets the isolated groups of walkers exploring the beach, wrapped up in cosy clothing and warm hats, all huddled together. It touches the soul, allows thoughts to develop and promotes genuine relaxation. It’s even better when you can go back to a chilled place afterwards. The SAND lifestyle hotel in Timmendorfer Strand is one such place: 75 rooms and suites bearing a design that’s cosmopolitan and down to earth, featuring soft, natural colours and carefully considered details. SAND stands for Sand Aspires Natural Design. Guests can expect laid-back luxury in a sustainable and cool setting. Stylish swing seats, reeds in tall vases, wide candles and lanterns on the window sills also adorn the new SANDlounge. This is a real highlight, especially for the autumn and winter months. Large glazed areas offer a clear view of whatever the weather may be outside while you’re enjoying a delicious cocktail or hot drink in convivial surroundings. It’s even hotter on the top floor: the rooftop sauna on the roof terrace with its open-air relaxation area provides a far-reaching view of the locality and out to sea. It can also be booked for exclusive use by couples wanting extra time together at SAND. “If you visit us by the Baltic Sea in autumn and winter, you can look forward to an experience immersed in nature,” comments Yvonne Bork, the manager of the SAND. She always has a tip or two up her sleeve for SAND guests: “It can get stormy, but that’s what we like here in the north. Weatherproof outdoor clothes should be at the top of your packing list so there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying a relaxing hike along the long sandy beach. There are lots of great cafés and restaurants on the coast that are really worth a visit.” For those who would prefer something more urban or cultural, the Hanseatic cities of Lübeck and Hamburg are two top destinations within easy reach. In December in particular, they attract visitors not only with their Christmas markets but also their pedestrianised zones for a spot of winter retail therapy.

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

HOTEL STEIN

Austria / Salzburg / Salzburg City

THE Stylemate

BOCA DE AGUA

Issue No 03 | 2023

RENOWNED ARCHITECTURE MEETS SUSTAINABILITY Designed by visionary architect Frida Escobedo, renowned for her transformative work at the MET in New York, this ethereal project isn’t just a hotel – it’s a testament to a profound desire. A desire to breathe new life into the environment, the community and the culture, all while offering guests an experience that’s equally restorative and unique. It’s a haven designed by one of the world’s great architects. In this extraordinary narrative, treehouses become the protagonists, rising on pillars to gracefully avoid the Earth’s touch, minimising their footprint on the land. These exquisite spaces beckon to guests to embrace the untamed jungle that surrounds them, allowing the flora and fauna to weave their tales into the visitor’s own. With 26 accommodation units adorned in warm wood, bathed in natural light and featuring with soft, earthy tones, Boca de Agua seamlessly integrates with the enchanting heart of Bacalar. Its very structure, designed to evolve gracefully over time, becomes an integral part of the landscape’s ongoing story. Raised off the ground on pillars, the construction leaves over 90% of the land untouched, honouring its commitment to nature. The Chicozapote wood used in the project comes from a sustainable source, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, thereby ensuring the preservation of the local ecosystem. And with a wastewater treatment plant, every drop finds purpose without harming the lagoon.

All

INSPIRATION ALL AROUND The embodiment of harmonious regeneration, this project isn’t just about providing a luxurious escape; it’s a commitment to

creating a ripple of positive change. Social inclusion, local economic prosperity and the preservation of nature blend with environmental responsibility. Boca de Agua isn’t merely a place to stay; it’s an immersive experience designed to inspire and nurture. In the shared spaces, echoes of the local culture reverberate, each area reflecting the soul of the Yucatán region with stone temples and wooden houses. Every piece of furniture, designed by local artisans and an in-house team, tells a tale of renewal, forged from materials discarded from nearby industrial processes. Artistry is woven into every nook and cranny, with exclusive creations from Mexican and local brands. Boca de Agua also opens its arms to the community, partnering with NGOs, local universities and government organisations. This sanctuary is now home to a rehabilitated mangrove ecosystem, the first of its kind in Bacalar, thanks to collaboration with the nonprofit organisation Mono Araña, which is devoted to the protection of spider monkeys and their habitat.

And as the tale unfurls, it’s important to remember that it’s not just about the sumptuous accommodation, the immersive experiences or the delectable cuisine. It’s about the heart of Bacalar, the Yucatán and the Earth itself. It’s about creating a story where conservation and luxury coexist in perfect harmony. In November, the pages of Boca de Agua will turn and a new story will begin. Will you be a part of it?

MINDFULNESS AT ITS BEST But the story doesn’t end with the design. It’s an invitation to rediscover your connection to the Earth. Scientifically backed therapeutic programmes entwine guests with the natural world, guiding them to reveal the Earth’s healing and rejuvenating secrets. It’s a dopamine reset, a quest for healthier and more sustainable sources of contentment, found in the blissful detachment that Boca de Agua provides. Ancient rituals, harmonised with modern scientific wisdom, enhance the narrative of Boca de Agua’s guests.

Speaking of romantic ambience: you’ll also experience it on the Stein terrace of the four-star hotel. From what must be the most popular roof terrace in Salzburg, on the seventh floor, you can soak up the unparalleled view of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Salzburg with its countless towers and domes, and the majestic, imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress. The rooftop restaurant and bar offer an extensive breakfast buffet and fine cuisine from the kitchen of award-winning chef Andreas Senn. The Stein terrace is a magical place in autumn and winter – you won’t get a more beautiful or romantic view of Salzburg’s wintry landscape than up here above the rooftops of Mozart’s city. And if you’re longing for a quiet and cosy place to retreat to after a hectic day, you’ll find it in the suites and rooms at the hotel. Every suite and every room is unique and decorated with its own colour scheme. You’ll be amazed by the broad cityscapes with spectacular views of Salzburg’s Baroque silhouette, the moulded ceilings, a glass work of art or a stylish light fitting, handmade by Venetian glass manufacturers Barovier & Toso. (+)

BOCA DE AGUA Mexico / Bacalar / Chetumal-Cancun bocadeagua.com

(+)

HOTEL STEIN Austria / Salzburg / Salzburg City hotelstein.at A place of retreat in the of the hustle and bustle.

Fotos: Cesar Bejar

Where mindfulness finds its place.

Photo:Hotel Stein, Gassner Gastronomie/Hellbrunner Adventzauber

things Advent

A new story unfolds

After the brilliant festival summer, numerous events and enchanting Advent markets numerous events and enchanting Advent markets attract visitors to Salzburg in autumn and winter. The luxury Hotel Stein in the centre of the city is the best starting point, to explore it.

And right in the middle of it all sits the urban luxury Hotel Stein in the heart of Salzburg. Located on the banks of the Salzach, between the old town and the new Andräviertel district, there is a vibrant and young art and culture scene surrounding the Hotel Stein. If you want to experience the Advent period in Salzburg, you’ll find this is the ideal base to start from. The Christmas market in Domplatz and Residenzplatz is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world and just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel. It’s the place to go for traditional Christmas tree decorations and culinary treats to boost the Christmas spirit. Margot Weindorfer, manager of the Hotel Stein, has another tip for visitors: “The Hellbrunner Adventzauber in the garden of the Baroque Schloss Hellbrunn has a special Christmas atmosphere, and on winter walks in the palace park, you can really enjoy the romantic ambience.”

Mexico / Bacalar / Chetumal-Cancun

Imagine a place where the very essence of nature dances in harmony with the pursuit of serenity and well-being. This enchanting tale unfolds on the Yucatán Peninsula, where lush jungles and azure waters converge in a ballet of life and tranquility. Here, amid the lush beauty, Boca de Agua emerges, a symphony of eco-preservation and hospitality that’s been years in the making.

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

WHITE DESERT

ANTARCTICA / ANTARCTICA

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

Unknown

Lifestylehotels: How do you ensure that White Desert’s expeditions are environmentally sustainable and have a minimal impact on Antarctica’s delicate ecosystem?

(+)

WHITE DESERT Antarctica / Antarctica white-desert.com In the middle of nowhere but still everywhere.

AMBIENTE SEDONA America / Arizona / Sedona ambientesedona.com

wasn’t quite sure what to do with us, but they did fully support the project and were excited about it. They were working on being the second city in the United States to join the Global Sustainable Tourism Alliance and we were exactly the flagship property development that they wanted to see. Probably the biggest hurdle we encountered was that we literally started the construction process and a month later COVID hit, which seriously impacted almost everything from meetings with the city to supply chains, etc. Sourcing was a challenge because rather than going somewhere to physically shop, a lot of it had to be done online and by email and that was a huge challenge to overcome, but it all worked out beautifully. Any of the items we had already started to order that were coming from overseas were held up due to shipping issues and so many times we had to go back to the drawing board and re-source things to replace those items.

The place to be, to calm down and enjoy the wilderness.

Patrick: We have a whole list of systems and protocols that we use to make our operations more efficient every year and are constantly looking to partner with firms utilising cutting-edge green/clean technology. As an example, we built Echo on sleds so that there are no foundations and we can remove the camp without a trace. We have logistics systems that streamline the removal of all waste from the continent back to Antarctica (including human and organic). We have invested in new electric skidoos (snow mobiles), and as mentioned we are the first to trial sustainable aviation fuel. We use solar power to heat our pods in camp. We have also been carbon neutral since 2007 and are investing in new blue carbon projects like planting sea grass meadows, which are 35 times more efficient at capturing carbon than forests.

The story of Ambiente Sedona

Lifestylehotels: How do you envision the future of eco-tourism and adventure travel, and how does White Desert plan to stay at the forefront of these trends? Patrick: As a species, we must be more mindful of our daily choices and their impact on biodiversity and our planet’s future. Antarctica, a vital climate change battleground, houses 70% of the world’s freshwater and unique biodiversity. The future of eco-tourism should prioritise slower, less frequent, low-impact and enriching travel experiences. Operators like us need to constantly innovate in the area of sustainability, supporting Antarctic science and responsible governance to leave places better than we found them. Our seagrass project is a step in that direction. Exploration is in our nature, but we must do it with heightened awareness. Travel is a privilege carrying the responsibility to preserve the places we visit. We have only one planet, and safeguarding nature requires sacrifices. Green technology, like sustainable aviation fuel, is more costly but essential for reducing our footprint. We are exploring options to blend SAF with conventional fuel to mitigate costs.

Lifestylehotels: Can you share the story of how the idea for Ambiente Sedona came about and what inspired you to embark on this project together? Ambiente Sedona: Our father had just finished a restaurant project on a nearby property that has gorgeous views and we loved seeing people come to enjoy the beauty of what Sedona is. A family friend owned the only other piece of land near that first development that had those same views and he had decided not to develop it after all and offered it to us. He’d already had a hotel concept designed for that piece of property but had decided not to pursue it, so when we went to walk the land, realised the views were the same and saw the beauty of the property, we decided to take it on, but also wanted to create something unique and different rather than a standard big box-style hotel. The topography of the land was beautifully unique and that led us to come up with the idea of separating the 40 rooms out into individual atriums on stilts so that we would be able to control the height and direction of each of them independently. This meant we could offer the best views with the maximum amount of privacy. Lifestylehotels: What roles did each of you play in the development and management of Ambiente Sedona, and how do you think your individual strengths complement each other in running the hotel? Ambiente Sedona: The project started over eight years ago and initially it was just my father Mike Stevenson and I. My sister Colleen was living in Phoenix at the time and finishing raising her kids before moving up to join us a few years ago. Dad was very involved in the entire process and helped with the construction side of things, which was amazing because he was in construction years ago and knew so much about all things related to the nuts and bolts of building. The interior design was a “sisters” job and we spent many hours shopping for everything related to interior design and also for the operations of a hotel. I have a huge amount of respect now for people who run large construction jobs and are able to keep everything straight and on time.

Photo: Jenelle Bonifield, Kyle RM Johnson

Patrick and Robyn had a vision in 2004. Ever since then, the possibility of exploring Antarctica has been made available to the public with a luxurious twist. White Desert has also successfully managed to combine adventure travel and eco-tourism. How do they do it? Find out here.

(+)

Foto: White Desert Antarctica

Explore the

Lifestylehotels: What unique experiences or expertise do you bring to the field of eco-tourism and adventure travel? Patrick: With three world records and Robyn’s own polar exploration background, our company was founded by passionate and accomplished guides and explorers. Operating in the pristine environment of Antarctica has challenged us to develop innovative practices. For instance, we were the first Antarctic operator across both government and private sectors to trial sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). We also reduce packaging and even peel and compost potatoes in Cape Town to minimise waste transportation back from Antarctica. Our aim is to set an example and foster collaboration in these efforts. Antarctica, a place without a local population, is governed collectively by 56 signatories of the Antarctic Treaty, showcasing remarkable global collaboration. White Desert has been part of the International Association of Antarctic Tourism Operators (IAATO) for nearly two decades. Robyn has played a pivotal role in IAATO’s governance for the past five years, advocating for sustainability initiatives across the whole industry.

America / Arizona / Sedona

Where modern and minimalist meet. Where wilderness and nature come together. That’s when you know you are at Ambiente Sedona. We talked to boss sisters Jennifer and Colleen and they told as all about Ambiente.

Lifestylehotels: Can you please provide an overview of White Desert and its mission, and how you two started it? Patrick: As a teenager, I was inspired by Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ speech at the Royal Geographical Society, and it fuelled my desire for an extraordinary life filled with polar expeditions. After leaving university without a clear path, I embarked on a decade of expeditions, earning a world record in Antarctica in 2002. I was driven by the thrill of exploring uncharted territory, rather than following established routes. In 2004, Robyn joined me on my second polar expedition, and this trip ignited the idea of offering people a chance to experience the rarely visited interior of Antarctica. The concept for White Desert emerged during a gruelling 2,000-mile traverse of Antarctica where, trapped in a tent, we envisioned a luxurious retreat with gourmet food and private jet access. We wanted to share the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica’s deep interior, a realm usually reserved for explorers and scientists, by creating a camp where regular people could enjoy relative luxury while witnessing this extraordinary world.

AMBIENTE SEDONA

Lifestylehotels: Building a hotel is a significant undertaking. Can you describe some of the challenges you faced during the development phase, and how you overcame them as a family team? Ambiente Sedona: We encountered many difficulties in the process. The design was so unique and new that the City of Sedona

Lifestylehotels: Ambiente Sedona is known for its unique and eco-friendly architecture. Could you elaborate on the design philosophy behind the hotel and how it integrates with the natural beauty of Sedona? Ambiente Sedona: Our concept was to marry modern, minimalist design with earthy, organic elements to literally bring the outdoors into the spaces, but also to create these atriums so that they look like they floated down from the sky and gently dropped into place without disturbing the beauty of the land. So many hotels design and build out the environment you go to visit and it’s all been “created” for you. We wanted to flip that entire concept inside out and let the beauty of the ancient land be the focal point. The atrium is your private theatre to the natural world around you and it is your Sedona on IMAX view the minute you open the motorised curtains in the morning. Lifestylehotels: Collaboration is crucial in any family business. How do you navigate the dynamics of working together as siblings? Are there any unique advantages or challenges you’ve encountered? Ambiente Sedona: Thankfully we are a very close family and work very well together. The biggest part of that is having mutual respect for each other so we can share ideas and hash out disagreements in a productive way, and that is really key. This experience has actually brought us closer together in many ways and we are so excited for the future and to see where it leads us. Lifestylehotels: As entrepreneurs and hoteliers, what advice would you give to others looking to follow their dreams in the hospitality industry? Never give up. You will hit many roadblocks and things will never go as smoothly as you had hoped, but every challenge makes you stronger and when you overcome those challenges, the satisfaction is even greater. Lifestylehotels: Looking to the future, do you have any expansion or new projects in mind for Ambiente Sedona? Ambiente Sedona: Absolutely! I think what we have created is a “brand” that will stand the test of time, will fit into many beautiful places and we have created a culture that truly resonates through our staff to our guests. All of our guests have said that they feel like family when they come to Ambiente and that our staff truly seem happy to be here. In fact, we have had several guests who have already returned for their third trip, which speaks volumes. The truth is, our staff are truly happy to be here and we make sure that they feel very appreciated, because they are.

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

HOTEL HEUREKA

TRANSFORMING A HISTORIC PALAZZO The Hotel Heureka’s ten rooms are housed in a magnificent 16th-century palazzo adorned with original frescoes, columns and vaulted ceilings. The historic building, with its Renaissance and Baroque influences, exudes extraordinary charm that transports guests back in time. The interior design seamlessly blends modern comfort with Venetian tradition, creating a mesmerising mosaic of styles that is both original and unique. At the heart of Hotel Heureka lies its hidden treasure – the garden. Offering a serene retreat from the bustling city, the garden provides a sanctuary of tranquillity on hot summer days. Guests can find respite under the shade of ancient trees, allowing their minds to wander amidst the beauty of blooming flowers. In the evening, the garden transforms into a celestial observatory, a place to revel in the magic of the Italian night sky and indulge in delightful conversations while enveloped in the soft glow of blue flowers.

Italy / Veneto / Venice

Issue No 03 | 2023

Br av e

ART AND CULTURE EVERYWHERE The location of Hotel Heureka in the Cannaregio district means guests are immersed in the vibrant heart of Venetian life. A leisurely stroll along the picturesque canals reveals the authentic Venice, with its magnificent churches, historic buildings and breathtaking views of the lagoon. Art aficionados will find themselves captivated by the Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious art exhibitions in the world. Showcasing contemporary artworks from around the globe, the Biennale offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge artistic expressions. The hotel can also be booked for private and exclusive events. Maybe a group of art lovers during the Biennale? Close friends and family for a wedding? Or special family occasions? The possibilities are endless.

(+)

THE Stylemate

HOTEL HEUREKA Venice / A place for art and artists hotel-heureka.com It is a testament to the harmonious blend of art, luxury and histor

STYLE

WORLD

Get artsy

Venezia! The mere mention of the name evokes images of a city steeped in history, romance and artistic grandeur. It is a place where the past seamlessly blends with the present, offering a unique experience to those who are fortunate enough to visit. One place that captures the essence of this enchanting city is Hotel Heureka, a luxurious boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Venice. With its impeccable design, rich history and proximity to the vibrant art scene, Hotel Heureka provides the perfect haven for art enthusiasts during the Venice Biennale.

Photos: Hotel Heureka

AN D H ER E, A I I S P OI SED T O UN LO C K T H E D O OR S T O R EA L MS H I T H ERT O UN EX PLOR ED, UNC OVER I NG H I DDEN T R EA SUR ES OF K NOWL ED GE, AN D PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF OUR UNDERSTANDING. AS THE LINES BET WEEN THE ORGANIC AND THE SYN THETIC BLUR, WE STAND ON THE PRECIPICE OF A BREATHTAKING JOURNEY – ON E T HAT WI L L T EST T H E L I M I T S OF OUR I MAGI NAT ION, C HA L L ENGE OUR ET H IC A L C OM PA SS, AN D, A B OVE A L L , I L LUM I NAT E T H E PAT H T O A F U T UR E WH ER E I N T EL L IGENC E K NOWS NO B OUN D S.

n e w

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

CREATIVITY

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

17 STYLE

FREE

THE FUSION OF CREATIVITY AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IS RESHAPING THE WORLD OF DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE. WE SPOKE TO THREE DESIGNERS WHO ARE RESHAPING THE FUTURE. KAROLIN SCHMIDBAUR FROM COOP HIMMELB(L)AU EXPLAINS HOW AI IS BEING USED IN VARIOUS PROJECT PHASES WITHOUT COMPROMISING THE INDIVIDUALITY OF THE ARCHITECTS. HASSAN RAGAB SHARES HIS VIEWS ON HOW AI CAN PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY AND PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT IN ARCHITECTURE, BUT ALSO HIGHLIGHTS ETHICAL ASPECTS, AND ARTURO TEDESCHI SHOWS HOW HE DRAWS INSPIRATION FROM MUSIC AND FILM AND USES GENERATIVE AI TOOLS TO ENRICH HIS DESIGNS.

Photo: Hassan Ragab

– WITH AI.

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

STYLE Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to become a designer? What are some of your most noteworthy design projects or pieces of work that you are especially proud of? I grew up in the picturesque south of Italy, and when I was a child, I nurtured two great passions: making complex cardboard buildings (true to scale) and immersing myself in the world of my beloved Commodore 64, one of the pioneering home computers of its time. My fascination mainly centred on developing basic programs and creating animated designs. At the time, I didn’t know that computer-aided art would anchor in my subconscious a strong feeling for abstraction and the ability to perceive shapes as complex relationships between numbers. Today, my career path has taken me into the fascinating domain of computational design, a discipline at the interface of art and technology, inspiration and control. You could say that I never really gave up the childhood hobby that once shackled my imagination. Although I don’t consider any one project to be my favourite, my job entails the perpetual search for innovative tools and methods. As such, my latest project always embodies the synthesis of who I am today. I recently worked on the stage design for the world tour of musician Illenium, a project that united a narrative, algorithms, AI and above all the ambition of creating a fascinating extension of the artist’s visual language.

How do you approach the beginning stage of a design project? What steps do you take to gather inspiration and define the design concept? Although my work might seem very technical, I look for inspiration outside the specific professional context. Cinema and music have always been major sources of inspiration for me. Music has an immensely suggestive power, and its mathematical structure can be studied and systematically transferred to the geometric relationships between shapes. Cinema inspires me because of its intrinsic ability to visualise the future and make it tangible. Up until a few years ago, I laid out the initial concept using sketches or mood boards. Now, using generative AI tools (text to image or sketch to image), it’s possible to explore numerous iterations and quickly develop only the most interesting ones. It’s only after this point that algorithms and complex three-dimensional models come into play. How do you stay up to date with the latest design trends and technologies? Can you give examples of how you’ve incorporated emerging trends into your work? It’s becoming more and more difficult to keep up with innovation (as we saw last year with the development of a variety of AI-based platforms and tools). I start using a new technology if I believe that it can quickly implement what my brain can

imagine, or, in the case of AI, when it can enrich my vocabulary and my language. In the case of the stage design that I mentioned before, there was the desire to create a form of archetypal architecture that is far removed from the technological stereotype and to regularly use generative AI tools to develop a language that is enriched by shapes and details that weren’t originally part of my idea. With this in mind, I didn’t use a tool to automate design processes, but rather as a platform to increase my capacity for expression. Which tools and software do you use in your design work? Are there specific design tools or techniques that you find particularly effective or innovative? Algorithms are the extension of my mind, and algorithmic design (especially Grasshopper 3D) enables designers to overcome the limitations of traditional CAD software and 3D computer graphics software, and reach a degree of complexity that goes far beyond human interaction with digital objects. The majority of my work results from translating ideas into code and code into machine-readable files.. What do you think others in the industry take from your design work? What makes your application unique? For me, qualities like functionality, sustainability and innovation are always accompanied by a vision in which the shapes can evoke an emotional reaction

and inspire users. I have always tried to evade the case of technological fetishism by pursuing the idea of a new generation of object-oriented artworks that authentically try to achieve the complexity of digital art, an area with fluid boundaries in which art and digital technologies blend and new cultural and social meanings are encouraged.

How can AI be used in architecture to improve sustainability and environmental protection? Let’s think of AI as a calculator for a moment. Before the invention of calculators, scientists had to work out all of their calculations by hand, whereas now they can concentrate on complex matters because there’s a tool that can solve equations for them. If as an architect you want to respond to the issue of environmental protection, you have to consider an awful lot of factors, and that makes it difficult. And although we as people might do our best, our brains only have limited capacity, whereas the intellectual capacity of AI is unlimited. Because AI has access to virtually all scientific data, it can help architects to predict the results and consequences of their work.

In the rapidly evolving world of design, which future trends or challenges do you see for designers like you over the next few years? Especially in relation to AI? It’s risky making predictions, but we’re on the verge of a new Copernican revolution that will bring real technical and creative advantages to the concept of intelligence – creativity and the way in which machine thinking can influence the world around us – and connect us once again with an authentic human dimension. I think today’s greatest challenge is training: educating the next generation of designers with technological and environmental awareness. The real challenge will be uniting man and machine.

Are there any ethical problems with AI? Absolutely. There is already a certain stigma attached to working with AI. AI is just a tool, similar to a double blade – you

ARTURO TEDESCHI is an Italian architect and computational designer of international renown. He is best known for a sculptural and visionary approach, which is combined with research on progressive design methods, materials and manufacturing technologies. His use of digital technologies blurs the boundaries between various disciplines and places the focus on the semantic and emotional values of properties. Characteristics such as functionality, sustainability and innovation are always accompanied by a vision in which shapes are able to trigger an emotional reaction and inspire users.

I generated graphics in which a monkey was holding a building – an idea that in reality obviously can’t be implemented. I’m not into constructing buildings according to my design ideas, but rather discovering the potential of architecture, what architecture means and the identity you can discover in yourself through architecture. Has AI changed your ideas and your style? Definitely. I don’t try to answer questions using AI – I try to ask more questions to open my mind. I allow myself to be challenged by AI so I can find different access points to architecture, and I work with it to understand the science and the philosophy behind architecture in more depth. I want to research complex architectural concepts and not just focus on their application.

Photo: Hassan Ragab

Designer

Photo: Arturo Tedeschi

TEDESCHI

How can buildings designed by AI be integrated into the existing surroundings? I’m not sure whether I want to integrate my architecture into the real world. I think people often wrongly interpret my work. There are a lot of different

aspects to architecture, so you need to act responsibly when putting something in place in real life. I worked in architecture and construction for 13 years and I realised that architecture these days is often used incorrectly. Over the last few years, I’ve seen how architecture is being used as a means to build cultural dominance and geopolitical power, or financial profit. That’s why I’m slowly trying to move out of this sector. Instead of trying to implement my models in real life with real consequences, I’m focusing on exploring how AI can help me immerse myself in the creative and artistic side of architecture. Sooner or later, I’d like to bring one or two of my models to life, but I don’t want to impose a particular style or integrate my buildings into cities. Of course, the buildings that I and other users of AI programs like Midjourney design are often more attractive than the architecture you see in cities, but I don’t think the visual aspect should be the only part that impresses people. In my series of designs,

HASSAN RAGAB is an Egyptian designer with a background in architecture, who now lives in south California. His experience ranges from exhibition design to product, furniture and textile design, and is strongly linked with calculations, experimenting and digital manufacturing. He is currently providing computer-aided design solutions in the field of architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) for a large architectural project in downtown Los Angeles and at the same time working on developing his own designs.

Architect and Computational Designer

A RT U RO

can distort work with AI and steal others’ ideas, but it can also be used to create wonderful things. It purely comes down to the intentions of the user, as with any type of technology. You might think that the internet or social media have the same ethical challenges as AI, but the latter is much more powerful and has much more potential. AI is a highly empowering tool – it gives us the possibility to create whatever we can dream of, especially graphics, and that naturally can lead to the technology being misused. But it also gives us the opportunity to create spectacular architectural designs, and that’s what I want to concentrate on. The end result always comes down to the morals of the person using it.

HASSAN

RAGAB

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

ADVERTORIAL M EZ Z A—MA I S O I S AN I N T ER DI S C I PL I NA RY ST UDIO F OR I N T ER IOR A RC H I T EC T UR E, I N T ER IOR S AN D DESIGN T HAT HA S DE DIC AT E D I TSE L F TO C R E AT I NG UN IQUE SPAC ES, OB J EC T S AN D PL AC ES AN D I S A LWAYS LO OK I NG OU T F OR EXC LUSI VE C OL L EC T I BL ES. “WE BEL I EVE I N T H E I N I M I TABL E C HAR M OF HAN DMA DE C OL L EC T OR S’ PI EC ES. T H EY HAVE T I M EL ESS VA LUE AN D T UR N EVERY RO OM I N T O S OM ET H I NG SPEC IA L ,” SAYS VE R E NA WOH L KÖN IG, C O -F OUN DER OF M EZ Z A—MA I S O. T H E UN IQUE OB J EC T S SUC H A S F R EESTAN DI NG F UR N I T UR E, AC C ESS OR I ES AN D L IGH T S AR E T RAC KE D D OWN BY T H E T EAM ON GUM PEN D OR F ER STA SSE AN D MAN UFAC T UR ED I N C OL L A B ORAT ION WI T H DESIGN ER S AN D BRAN D S, OR DE SIGN E D BY T H E ST U DIO T H EMSELVES T H EN PRODUC ED A S L I M I T ED EDI T ION S I N ON - OF F AN D SMA L L SER I ES PRODUC T ION. H ER E, WE PR ESEN T AN OVE RVI E W OF T H E DE SIGN ER S’ C UR R EN T FAVOUR I T E PI EC ES, WH IC H A R E AVA I L A BL E ON R EQUEST VIA M EZ Z A-MA I S O.C OM. mezza-maiso.com

Vienna’s top destination for exclusive collectibles.

To what extent can AI be deployed without losing the individuality of the architect? I wouldn’t say that’s the case – we use the AI modules when they make sense for the project. It’s only ever parts of stages that we use AI for, not consistently throughout the whole project. The architect defines this process, so individuality is never lost.

What effect does AI have on the architect’s creativity? It encourages creativity if you use it intentionally and responsibly. How similar is the AI model to the final building? At COOP HIMMELB(L)AU, there’s no such thing as “the AI model”, as AI is used in individual steps. The traditional design and planning process is merely expanded or enriched by these possibilities.

KAROLIN SCHMIDBAUR Since 2009, Karolin has been a partner and head of research at Coop Himmelb(l) au and bears joint responsibility for the design portfolio. She holds important roles at the Groninger Museum East Pavilion in the Netherlands, the Central Los Angeles Area High School #9 for the Visual and Performing Arts in downtown Los Angeles, USA, and the Paneum near Linz, Austria, to name just a few.

COOP

HIMMELB(L)AU

Photo: Himmelb(l)au COOP

Design Partnerin und Head of Research

Photos: Mezza—Maiso, Anna Karlin Studios, fferrone

During which steps of carrying out a project do you use AI? In various steps from design through to the technical details. We work with a network of AI modules that can be incorporated into the workflow at various stages.

GROPIUS LOUNGE CHAIR—LIMITED EDITION

TABLE—VIENNE

The latest collectible from Mezza—Maiso is a special edition of the Gropius Lounge Chair by Ukrainian brand NOOM. It came about as a result of the partnership with brand founder and designer Kateryna Sokolova. “The Gropius Lounge Chair is part of NOOM’s current furniture collection, which is dedicated to the great minds behind the Bauhaus school. For the special edition, we upholstered the chair with an incredible fabric. It stems from a collaboration between a French label for luxury textiles and avantgarde Milanese design agency Studiopepe and, like the Gropius Lounge Chair itself, is inspired by radical architecture,” explains Jürgen Hamberger, co-founder of Mezza—Maiso.

The first in-house design by Mezza—Maiso is Table—Vienne, a solid wood table made according to the studio’s designs by businesses in the region. “Our Table—Vienne can be individually customised and is entirely variable. Both the length and the material, treatment and finish can be adapted to the needs of our customers,” explains Wohlkönig. As well as flexibility, the designers aimed to create a pleasant feel, which is achieved through gently brushed wood and a minimalist design. Its legs protrude through the tabletop so they’re visible from above, giving it a unique appearance.

CHESS SERIES BY ANNA KARLIN STUDIOS

MAY COLLECTION BY FFERONE

Anna Karlin is a New York designer whose skill set includes designing furniture and lighting collections and jewellery design. With Chess Series, Karlin has designed sculptures that can be used as side tables or stools and positioned like chess pieces in the room. The metal stools from the range are made out of cold-rolled steel, plated with brass and finished with a hand-rubbed patina. The stools made out of wood and parchment are turned by hand, finished and sealed with water-resistant lacquer.

Felicia Ferrone is an American architect and designer who reinvents everyday objects in unexpected ways. With the May Collection, she delivers a modern interpretation of the stemmed glass that corresponds with her favourite month and whose fluted design will make it an eye-catcher on any table. Every piece is made by hand by master glass blowers in the Czech Republic. The borosilicate glass means it can be used in a range of hot and cold applications and ensures the glasses are oven, microwave and dishwasher safe.

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

23 STYLE

Was ist die Mission von Peloton? Daniel: Die Mission von Peloton ist es mit Hilfe von Design und Technologie die Welt über Fitness zu verbinden, sodass die Menschen die beste Version ihrer selbst werden können. Außerdem soll Fitness jederzeit und an jedem Ort verfügbar sein. Wie macht ihr das? Daniel: Wir haben drei Bausteine: Die Hardware, die Software und den Content. Die Hardware besteht aus dem Bike, einem Rudergerät oder dem Laufband. Die Software ist die App, über die man den Content beziehen und sich mit der Community vernetzen kann und der Content sind all die Trainingsvideos, die es auch möglich machen überall und zu jeder Zeit zu trainieren. Die Idee bei der Gründung von Peloton war es bereits nicht nur im Studio bei der Spinning Class im coolen New Yorker Studio zu trainieren, sondern das Erlebnis auch mit nach Hause nehmen zu können inklusive dem Instructor. Wenn man das Wort Wellness hört, dann denken die meisten an Therme und Sauna. Ihr habt eure eigene Definition von Wellness, wie lautet die? Daniel: Wir verstehen Wellness ganzheitlich und auf keinen Fall passiv. Ganzheitlich heißt, sich um die physische und die mentale Gesundheit zu kümmern. Uns geht es darum aktiv an seinem „well being“ zu arbeiten, auch wenn es sich dann um die Schlafmeditation handelt. Denn auch dann macht man aktiv etwas, damit es einem besser geht. Die mentale Gesundheit ist ein wichtiges Thema und wird bei uns mit geführter Meditation abgedeckt. Ihr seid davon überzeugt, dass die Menschen, wenn sie reisen unbedingt auch ihrem persönlichen Trainingsplan folgen wollen. Früher wollte man im Urlaub doch einfach gar nichts tun … Daniel: Unsere Untersuchungen im Hilton Trends Report 2023 zeigen, dass 50 % der Reisenden bei ihrer nächsten Reise eine Komponente des körperlichen oder geistigen Wohlbefindens wünschen und dass sie ihre Routine zu Hause fortsetzen möchten, wenn sie reisen. Der Umgang mit der eigenen Gesundheit und Fitness hat sich verändert. Das Angebot von Hyper-Personalisierung ist neben dem Gemeinschaftsgefühl unser Schlüssel zum Erfolg.

Was bedeutet Hyper-Personalisierung? Daniel: Hyper-Personalisierung ist nicht neu, Pioniermarken haben damit schon vor Jahren mit Produkten und Erlebnissen begonnen. Aber nach der Pandemie ist dieser Trend in den Fitness- und Wellnessbereich gesickert. Die Verbraucher haben sich auch an nahtlose Erlebnisse zu Hause gewöhnt und nutzen ihre Geräte, um überall und jederzeit zu trainieren. Und sie wollen ihr Training nachverfolgen - aber diese Überwachung muss digitalisiert und supereinfach sein. All diese Veränderungen werden sich fortsetzen und können mit Peloton mühelos gelebt werden. Die Peloton-Community ist ziemlich stark. Warum will man alleine trainieren, aber dann doch nicht alleine sein? Daniel: Es gibt generell eine gestiegene Nachfrage nach einem Gemeinschaftsgefühl. Ich denke auch das hat mit der Pandemie zu tun. Man ist zu Hause und sucht trotzdem den Kontakt nach außen. Für diesen neuen „Omnichannel-Konsumenten“ bietet Peloton die Möglichkeit, ein Wellness-Menü bequem von seinem Hotelzimmer aus zu konsumieren, und zwar in dem Moment, in dem er die Inhalte über die App oder auf einem Fahrrad konsumiert. Wenn sie mit anderen Menschen zusammen sein wollen, können sie im Fitnessstudio auf ein Peloton Bike steigen. Wenn sie lieber im Freien laufen oder meditieren, können sie einen Kurs belegen. Wenn sie am Ende eines langen Tages zur Ruhe kommen wollen, können sie eine 10-minütige Schlafmeditation machen - alles über die Peloton-App. Es ist ortsunabhängig, kanalübergreifend und immer nachvollziehbar. Hotelgäste haben die Wahl und Hoteliers bieten ein außergewöhnliches Gästeerlebnis. Könnte man sagen, dass Peloton Fitness demokratisiert hat? Daniel: Dieser Aussage würde ich jedenfalls zustimmen. Ganz egal wie es um die persönliche Fitness steht, die Programme in unserer App bieten für jede/n das richtige Training. Man kann seinen persönlichen Erfolg steuern und von Level zu Level kommen. Es besteht aber auch kein Stress dabei. Es soll einfach Freude machen. Vom „Anfänger“ bis zum Profi-Sportler – alle eint das Gemeinschaftsgefühl. Die Gemeinschaft ist unser Rückgrat, sie ist das, was wir am besten können. Und wir wissen, dass die Menschen auf Reisen all diese Verhaltensweisen auch unterwegs beibehalten wollen. 90 % der befragten Peloton-Mitglieder würden eher in einem Hotel übernachten, wenn es ein Peloton-Bike gibt. Übrigens: 2022 wurden mehr als 1,6 Millionen Peloton-Fahrten in Hotels unternommen.

ÜBER DANIEL SPRUNG UND PELOTON Daniel Sprung ist Senior Director International, Partnerships and Commercial bei Peloton. Peloton bietet seinen Mitgliedern fachkundige Anleitung und uniquen Content, um wirkungsvolle und unterhaltsame Trainingserfahrungen für jeden, überall und in jeder Phase seiner Fitnessreise zu schaffen. Ob zu Hause, in der Natur, auf Reisen oder im Fitnessstudio - Peloton verbindet motivierende Kurse, modernste Technologie und Hardware sowie die Peloton-App mit mehreren Ebenen, um das Peloton-Erlebnis mit oder ohne Geräte zu personalisieren. Peloton wurde 2012 gegründet und hat seinen Hauptsitz in New York City. Peloton hat fast 7 Millionen Mitglieder in den USA, Großbritannien, Kanada, Deutschland und Australien und seit Mitte Oktober auch in Österreich.

PELOTON IN ZAHLEN

FAST

7 MILLIONEN MITGLIEDER I N DE R PE LOTON C OM MU N I T Y

50+ PELOTONTRAINER F Ü R AL L E F I T N E SS -MODAL I TÄT E N (U S + U K + DE )

M I TGL I E DE R HABE N Ü BE R

1 M I L L IA RDE K URSE

AUF DER PLATTFORM ABSOLVIERT (APP & ALL-ACCESS-ABONNENTEN)

16 FITNESSMODALITÄTEN WE R DE N AU F DE R PE LOTON -PL AT T FOR M ANGE B OT E N

M E H R ALS

1.200 KURSE

bike

WE R DE N J E DE N MONAT E R ST E L LT

Fotos: Joyce Park

More than a

DI E MAR KE PE LOTON E ROBE RT E U ROPA U N D DI E HOT EL S . WI R HABE N M I T DAN I E L SPRU NG, SE N IOR DI R E C TOR BE I PEL OTON, ÜBER DI E BE DE U T U NG VON WE L L N E SS, E I N E STAR KE C OMM UN I T Y UN D WI E PE R S ONAL ISI E RU NG BE I F I T N E SS AUC H AU F R E ISE N

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

ADVERTORIAL MA KI NG T H I NG S BY HAN D I S I N NO WAY “OL D S CHO OL” AT C R E AT IVE I N DU ST R I E S ST YR IA . ST YR IAN PRODUC TS EXH I BI T A BL E N D OF T RA DI T IONA L C RA F T SMANSH I P WI T H MODERN DESIGN AN D COM PU T ER T E C H NOLO GY. T H IS C OM BI NAT ION D OE SN ’ T J U ST RESULT I N ACCURAT E AN D H IGH- QUA L I T Y WORK , I T A L S O MA K ES FOR EX T RAORDI NA RY DESIGN S AN D PRODUC TS T HAT HAVE A P O SI T IVE I M PAC T ON PE OPL E ’S EVE RYDAY L I VE S . H E R E A R E OUR TOP T H REE.

The NOW Fu ture is

WA S I ST C A D? CAD STANDS FOR COMPU TER AIDED DESIGN, WHICH IS A SPECIAL IST SOF TWARE APPL ICATION USED IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES TO CREATE TECHNICAL D RAW I N G S , M O D E L S A N D P L A N S . C A D P R O G RA M S E NA B L E D E S I G N E R S , ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS AND OTHER EXPERTS TO CREATE ACCURATE AND DETAIL ED DRAWINGS OF PRODUCTS, BUIL DINGS AND OTHER STRUCT URES.

HOW D OES 3D PR I N T I NG WOR K ? 3D PR I N T I NG, A L S O K NOWN A S A DDI T I VE MAN U FAC T U R I NG, I S A MAN U FACT URING PROCESS WHEREBY THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS ARE BUILT U P L AY E R BY L AY E R BY G RA D UA L LY A DDI N G M AT E R I A L , RAT H E R T H AN REMOVI NG I T F ROM A SI NGL E BLO CK (AS IS T H E CASE WI T H T RADI T IONAL SUB T RAC T I VE MAN UFAC T UR I NG, DUR I NG WH IC H MAT ER IA L I S R EMOVED T O F OR M T H E DE SI R E D OB J E C T ). T H E PRO C E S S I S B A SE D ON DIGI TA L 3D MODELS DESIGNED ON A COMPU TER OR DERIVED FROM 3D SCANS – U S UA L LY I N C A D P R O G R A M S . ST YRIAN PRODUCTS IS A PROGRAMME FROM CREATIVE INDUSTRIES ST YRIA T HAT SHOWCASES DESIGN F ROM T H E ST YRIA REGION OF AUST RIA – B OT H ONL INE AND OFFL INE. THE RESULT IS A REFINED COL L ECTION OF AROUND 100 EXCEP TIONAL PRODUCTS THAT WERE AL L DEVELOPED, DESIGNED AND MA DE I N ST YR IA .

lasnikeyeworks.com

xal.com

GEOMETRIC COLLECTION JEWELLERY – HEXA TRIPLE

DA27 X LASNIK

RECOVER – XAL

Designer: 13&9 Design

Designer: Martin Lasnik

Designer: XAL

With its RECOVER innovation, XAL has brought the transformative power of daylight into interior spaces. This lighting system is designed to support people’s natural biorhythm and promote well-being and recovery by mimicking the flow of natural light using changes in colour temperature. Since it was founded in Graz in 1989, XAL has evolved into a company with an incredible 1,300 employees. Its core area of specialism is creating contemporary and aesthetically appealing lights and lighting systems with exemplary design attributes.

Renowned glasses designer Martin Lasnik has collaborated with star footballer David Alaba to develop innovative 3D-printed glasses with eye-catching gold detailing. These glasses boast an unconventional octagonal shape and mirrored lenses, thereby setting a new benchmark in the glasses industry and serving as an exceptional example of creative design. Martin Lasnik excels at creating extraordinary products, including well-known brand SEEOO and his particularly remarkable collection 13&9 Eyewear – Diamond Shades, which was developed in partnership with 13&9 Design. This collection parts ways with conventional standards and explores totally new creative paths that are far removed from the mainstream.

Photos: Markus Mansi, XAL

Photo: Robert La Roche

The jewellery pieces from the GEOMETRIC COLLECTION designed by 13&9 Design were developed using CAD programs and unite modern CNC technology with traditional Austrian craftsmanship. What’s particularly unique about them is the use of the high-quality architectural material Corian. The flowing forms of an ellipse and the creative possibilities of the hexagon served as sources of inspiration. 13&9 Design is an interdisciplinary design studio based in Graz, Austria, founded by Martin Lesjak, managing director of renowned architectural firm INNOCAD, and designer Anastasija Lesjak. The team works closely with specialist partners, from concept through to production, and is involved in various fields, including lighting, furniture, floor coverings, fashion, accessories, exhibition design and sound design.

xtec.at 13and9design.com

cis.at/projekte/styrian-products/

THE Stylemate Issue No 03 | 2023

Freedom

Issue No 03 | 2023

ADVERTORIAL Katrin, can you tell us about Collis Hill? How did your little hill come about? In 2014, I bought the Figolalm and my family’s old farmhouse following the death of my father and my mother wanting a change of scenery. My brother also decided to settle down elsewhere and start an apprenticeship in Germany, despite originally wanting to take over the Figolalm. That ultimately led to me taking on responsibility for the farm and the cottage, even though I was only 20 years old at the time. I was perhaps far too young back then, but in retrospect, it was a good decision. It was obviously extremely hard to start off with as I had several jobs at the same time to make ends meet and still renovate the farm. My goal was to make something special out of the cottage and the farm, and I invested a lot of time and energy in bringing my ideas to life. Over the last ten years, I’ve worked hard and gained valuable experience, including in the tourism industry.

Marion, du hast 30 Jahre lang im Tourismus gearbeitet. Was hat dich dazu inspiriert, mit 50 Jahren etwas Neues zu beginnen? Marion, you’ve worked in tourism for 30 years. What inspired you to try something new at the age of 50? I realised a long time ago that tourism is my passion. Being a host fulfils me every single day. I love making people happy with small gestures like tips for bike tours or freshly baked plum streusel cake. Despite that, I toyed with the idea for a long time before I finally made the leap. I always wanted to run my own holiday accommodation the way I wanted, because working for other people, I always put in all my time, all my energy, only to come up against obstacles. Now, with my own business, I can put a lot of things into practice and make them a reality, and I can give my guests the gift of mindfulness, which I think is appropriate and important. Hospitality isn’t just a word to me, so it requires time.

The takeover must have brought with it many changes. What was it like to take over the Figolalm from your family? It was difficult, both emotionally and generally in terms of the workload. A lot of the pipes were old and faulty, and I had no idea about the technical side of things. My father wasn’t around anymore to help me. But a good friend of mine helped with the cottage, with the pipework, the electrics and the building work, so I could finally make my new vision a reality. My motivation was having my family all together again in one place and enjoying time together, especially in memory of

A F T E R 30 YE A R S I N TOURI SM , MA RION HA S MA DE H ER DREAM A R E AL I T Y – H E R DR E AM OF RU N N I NG H E R OWN HOL I DAY AC COM MODAT ION. I N WHAT WA S A DI L A PI DAT ED BUI L DI NG, SH E HA S CREAT ED A PREM I UM APART M E N T C OM PL E X T HAT FO C U SE S ON M I N DF U L N E SS. WE A SK E D MAR ION HOW GU E S T S C AN E N JOY T H EI R F REED OM AT F REI RAUM .

freiraum-apartments.at

A key focus of what you offer is mindfulness seminars, nutrition and meditation, especially in the low season. What can guests look forward to in this regard? Our mindfulness retreat is very dear to me because these days many people feel the need for it, as I did. Because of the hectic

nature of everyday life, the kilos crept up on me, with delicious food and simply too much of it being the main culprit. In addition to side effects like constant fatigue, sluggishness and an increasing desire for the next calorie fix, at some point I just didn’t feel well anymore. Then, thanks to a friend, I heard about vital substances and a form of nutrition that really made sense to me. Essentially, it’s a case of not restricting your diet but eating consciously. The vital substances support us in our daily lives. As part of the retreat, we have put together a wonderful supporting programme so guests can see it as a five-day break, a detox or even as the start of a change in their diet, fully guided by us. Even after they’ve left, guests can choose to receive tips and recipes so they stay motivated to stick with it.

How has the tourism industry changed in recent years, and how do you see its future, especially in relation to sustainable and mindful travel experiences? Guests are going on shorter trips, which is a trend that’s been seen for many years, and more importantly, an increasing number are staying in central Europe. This form of travel is safer, more climate-friendly and of higher quality. Sustainable travel is increasingly becoming a concern. But what stand out the most are mindful travel experiences. Hiking and cycling, and even electric bikes give many people a new opportunity to experience nature. These days, all generations are back in the mountains and exploring our incredible natural landscapes, and the appreciation of nature and the mountains has reached a new dimension that was never there before.

my father and my brother, who sadly also passed away in 2020. This only served to strengthen my determination. Despite financial challenges, I remained positive and recorded my ideas for Collis Hill in notebooks. Despite everything that had happened, I endeavoured to create a place that promoted health and inspired people. And the tichas? What are they and what was the inspiration behind them? Ticha is a name I made up based on “tipi” and “chalet”. And the tichas actually came to mind last year, inspired by my childhood in a tipi tent, my love of Norway and Pocahontas – and my travels. Like a recipe, I mixed everything together and that often leads to extraordinary things in life. A pinch of creativity is all you need. During the demanding building process, I got extra support from friends and my mother, who all helped lend Collis Hill a unique style. The tichas are named after the different elements. What can visitors expect there? I’m currently in the process of working out the concept for them. In each ticha, guests will find a piece of paper describing something related to the respective element. For water, there’s the Kneipp basin right next to Collis Hill with a brief explanation about the water and Kneipp treatments. For air, there’s a breathing exercise that follows the Wim Hof method and a hanging chair outside in the fresh air. For fire, it’s about warmth and assurance. For this, there’s a short poem and instructions for how to make twist bread and spending the evening by the dying fire.

An inspiring

ADVERTORIAL

How did you come up with the name Collis Hill? The name was one of the last things to be decided. I wanted to incorporate something about the history of Kals and add it to something new. “Collis” comes from Romanic and “Hill” is English. That’s what became my little hill. collishill.com

place

Conscious enjoyment can also work alongside stillness.

Photo: TDM Raw Gold / Porträt: Holger Homann

And where did the name come from? I really didn’t want the name of the apartment building to include words like crown, eagle or sun, which you’ll find in every town around here. After many discussions and getting to know my graphic designer, a young woman from the Bregenzerwald region, she suggested an initial idea, which was “freiraum” [meaning “freedom” or “free space”]. I was immediately drawn to the name so we stuck with it and didn’t have to think about it again.

Since summer 2023, your apartments have offered an à la carte breakfast service, as well as partnerships with award-winning chefs from the region. How did these collaborations come about and what can guests expect? Since this past summer, we have offered our guests the option of ordering breakfast or bread rolls, seven days a week, right to the door of their apartment. Our guests order exactly what they want every day before 6.00 pm directly with our suppliers. Regionality is really important here. For people who are less inclined to cook for themselves or more into fast food, I wanted to provide a high-quality alternative to the restaurants in the area, so it made sense to add the services of an award-winning chef from a neighbouring town to our offering. They guarantee where the basic ingredients come from, and even prepare the dishes themselves. So there are ready-made meals in glass dishes that just need to be heated up, amazing soups, vegetarian meals and a small number of options for meat eaters. To provide our guests with a sweet treat, we have a small range of excellent ice creams from Kolibri called Soulcream, and we also have our homemade cakes. The smell of baking in the building is enough to tempt anyone!

Photo: Albrecht Imanuel Schnabel / Freiraum Apartments

You transformed a dilapidated building into a premium apartment complex. Can you tell us a bit more about that, how the idea came about and how you put it into action? I’ve always had a weakness for old buildings – I’m really into traditions. The old building had charm and would now be over 100 years old, but structurally it was in bad condition. Because I wanted to create a modern apartment complex, it would have been impossible to retain the house. So from the beginning, building from scratch was the only option. Then it was down to the purely practical aspects so we could cover the needs of as many guests as possible. It was important to me to build apartments with two bedrooms so families would also have enough space to unwind, or girlfriends could stay together in one apartment but with separate sleeping quarters. Accessibility was a top priority, as guests with limitations should also enjoy well-being, so we started with an automatic entrance door and continued with lifts to all floors, and two apartments are fully adapted for disabled guests.

THE Stylemate

T H E PAT H T O C OL L I S H I L L WA SN ’ T AN EA SY ON E, BU T KAT R I N ST I L L WOUL DN ’ T C HANGE A SI NGL E T H I NG A B OU T I T. I N T H E H E ART OF KALS, SH E HA S SUC C EEDED I N T UR N I NG AN OL D FA R M HOUSE I N T O A PL AC E OF T RANQUI L L I T Y AN D I N SPI RAT ION. R ET UR N I NG T O T H E RO OTS AN D T H E FOU R EL EM EN T S. WE A SK ED H ER WHAT T H E JOUR N EY WA S L I K E T O GET T H ER E, WHAT T IC HA S A R E AN D WHAT GUEST S C AN E XPE C T WH E N T H E Y GE T T H ER E.

READY FOR CHECK-IN? With ROOMOR, Wever & Ducré has developed a product that adapts quite flexibly to its environment. Inspired by the design style of the 1920s, the lamp with the eye-catching wiring is available in different colours and many different versions, which is why it cuts just as good a figure at the desk as it does as a floor lamp in the hotel lobby. The individually combinable ROOMOR can be asked to check in in red, grey or simple black and with shades made of aluminum or felt.