A Soul-Filled Experience

Across the globe, family-run hotels are rewriting the rules of hospitality, blending heritage with visionary design. These aren’t just places to stay; they’re destinations brimming with personality, passion and a deep sense of history. From a transformed Berlin prison to a luxury eco-retreat on Lombok’s surf-studded shores, these six Design Hotels are the result of family legacies coming to life. Each tells a unique story where creativity, culture and family bonds are woven into every corner, offering guests a soul-filled experience. a soul-filled experience

 

Alpine Adventures In Austria


 

Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel is a vibrant family legacy in the Austrian Alps, led by the dynamic Walch family for three generations. Originally a humble inn, Josef and his wife Natascha have transformed it into a renowned culinary destination, blending Alpine charm with contemporary design. a soul-filled experience

 

 

Famous for its fondue and its exclusive Chef’s Table set in a historic schoolhouse, Rote Wand is a haven for food lovers. Now, the next generation – Magdalena, Josef-Martin and Valentin – are ready to carry the torch, continuing the family’s tradition of hospitality with a modern twist. a soul-filled experience

 

For more information and reservations, call +43 (0) 558 – 334 – 350 or email: gasthof@rotewand.com.

 

Berlin’s Boutique Retreat


 

Grüntuch Ernst Architects, the visionaries behind some of Berlin’s boldest projects, took on the challenge as a family and transformed a 120-year-old prison into Wilmina, a unique 44-room boutique hotel in the heart of Berlin. Armand Grüntuch and Almut Grüntuch-Ernst spent years reshaping the building’s thick walls and rigid structure, flipping it from an antisocial space to a welcoming retreat.

 

 

Today, the family’s approach has fostered an authentic atmosphere where guests feel truly welcome and cared for, while the thoughtful design – featuring sustainable architecture and the preservation of historic structures – reflects a deep respect for both nature and the local community.

 

For more information and reservations, call +49 (0) 302 – 018 – 050 or email: welcome@wilmina.com.

 

Athens’ Artistic Escape


 

Perianth Hotel in Athens is a vibrant expression of the Sgoumpopoulos siblings’ eclectic passions. Alexandra, Anastasia and Konstantinos each bring something special to the mix – one a culture aficionado, another a Zen monk and Taekwondo master and the third a lively DJ.

 

 

Their combined creativity has transformed the hotel into a stylish blend of modern design, mindfulness and contemporary Greek art, all while embracing the rich history of Athens. It’s more than just a hotel – it’s a soulful space where family spirit and artistic vision come together to create something truly extraordinary.

 

For more information and reservations, call +30 (0) 210 – 321 – 6660 or email: reservations@perianthhotel.com.

 

Authentic Italian Charm


 

Christiane Wassmann and her mother Elida have transformed their love for Panicale, Italy, into the beautiful boutique hotel Rastrello. Set in a 500-year-old palazzo, the hotel is surrounded by olive groves, where the family produces award-winning olive oil.

 

 

Christiane’s hospitality experience and Elida’s passion for gardening and sustainability have shaped Rastrello into a luxurious yet grounded retreat. With a farm-to-table philosophy and deep ties to the local community, this mother-daughter duo has created a haven that blends history, nature and authentic Italian charm.

 

For more information and reservations, call +39 (0) 075 – 837 – 246 or email: info@rastrello.com.

 

Eco-Friendly Villa Resort


 

Claire and Valia Gontard have transformed their global upbringing and family’s hospitality legacy into Somewhere Lombok, a stunning eco-conscious villa resort on Indonesia’s Lombok island. Inspired by their father, Nicolas Gontard, a passionate hotelier, the sisters created a retreat that embodies their deep passion for design, sustainability and authentic experiences.

 

 

Overlooking the world-class surf spot, Are Guling Bay, each villa features locally crafted furnishings, reflecting their commitment to supporting the local community and preserving the island’s natural beauty.

 

For more information and reservations, call +62 (0) 813 – 7230 – 0100 or email: hello@somewherelombok.com.

 

Firmdale’s Homemade Hospitality

 

Kit Kemp, the visionary behind Firmdale Hotels, is now sharing the creative spotlight with her youngest daughter, Minnie Kemp. Known for her bold, eclectic style and playful use of colour and texture, Kit has built a hospitality empire where every room tells a story.

 

 

Now, Minnie is making her mark, taking the reins as the design director for Firmdale’s hotels in the UK and the US. Together, they’re crafting a new chapter of whimsical, art-filled interiors, blending family tradition with fresh creativity – ensuring their hotels remain captivating and full of personality.

 

For more information and reservations, call +44 (0) 207 – 581 – 4045 or email: pr@firmdale.com.

 

 

Source: Design Hotels.