The Imperial Riding School Vienna – Where Heritage Gallops Into Modern Design
From equestrian academy to cinematic grandeur to bold boutique revival
A Storied Past, Reimagined
First built in the 19th century as an equestrian military school under Emperor Franz Joseph I, the Imperial Riding School has long been part of Vienna’s cultural and architectural fabric. Over the decades, it transformed from cavalry training ground to the city’s largest cinema—and now, thanks to the vision of London- and Porto-based Goddard Littlefair, into one of the city’s most intriguing design hotels. This is Vienna through a new lens: where imperial echoes meet contemporary boldness, and history is not just preserved—but reinterpreted.
A Lobby That Leads the Way
Rather than simply preserve the past, the redesign opens it up. Formerly compartmentalized and traditional, the public spaces now feel open, fluid, and social. The lobby, grounded in warm wood flooring that references its stable roots, is anchored by monumental arches and original columns—a space that invites both intimacy and interaction. A salvaged antique Franz Joseph sign nods to the building’s imperial beginnings, while custom light fixtures—crafted from glass, metal, and even horsehair—add texture and intrigue. At the center: a sculptural brass ring designed by Goddard Littlefair, acting as both artwork and compass.
A Garden, a Bar, and an Apple Named Elstar
Just beyond, the Elstar restaurant (named for the European apple once grown on the site) channels Secessionist elegance with mirrored panels and orchard-toned hues, flowing seamlessly into a lush private garden that offers rare tranquility in the heart of the city. At The Farrier, the hotel’s signature bar, metal and velvet meet in artful harmony—a sleek space where cocktails echo the precision of a well-made bridle.
Rooms That Whisper Imperial Elegance
The equestrian theme is never overplayed—but it’s everywhere, if you look closely. Carpets mimic hoof marks, echoing the rhythm of Empress Sisi’s own mount. Bridle strap light fixtures, stirrup-inspired side tables, and even scalloped vanities (reminiscent of saddle detailing) weave subtle storytelling into every surface. Warm tones, soft leathers, and refined textures bring a tactile richness that feels both fresh and rooted in place. Even the once-conventional layout has been challenged: the reception desk now sits at the back, so that arriving guests are greeted first and foremost by the bold visual rhythm of the guestrooms beyond.
Wellness With a Whisper, Not a Roar
Rounding out the experience is a serene wellness zone—complete with a tiled pool, arched alcoves, and a palette that mirrors the quiet sophistication found throughout the hotel. It’s not showy. It’s soulful.
DNA Hotels Verdict
The Imperial Riding School Vienna is a masterclass in transformation. Goddard Littlefair has crafted a hotel that honors its imperial bones while speaking confidently in a modern design language. With clever nods to equestrian heritage, artful spaces for gathering and retreat, and a bold departure from the expected, this is more than a renovation—it’s a rebirth. A stay here feels like stepping into Vienna’s next chapter—steeped in legacy, yet decidedly forward-facing.
