Rosewood Munich by Hilmer Sattler Architekten

Rosewood Munich is a landmark restoration that successfully brings together Baroque heritage, contemporary luxury and Munich’s cultural identity within two of the city’s most historic buildings, the former Bavarian State Bank headquarters and Palais Neuhaus-Preysing. The project carefully preserves the distinctive character of both buildings while creating a seamless guest experience rooted in place.

Historic architectural features, including the ornate façade, grand staircase, vaulted ceilings, preserved frescoes and ballroom, have been restored and celebrated, while contemporary interiors introduce warmth through natural tones, bespoke furnishings, marble, wood panelling, leather, velvet and refined lighting. Despite offering 132 rooms, suites and houses, the hotel maintains an intimate, residential atmosphere that complements the grandeur of the architecture.

The arrival sequence is the defining feature. Guests ascend the monumental staircase, now reimagined as the Staircase Gallery, where changing contemporary art exhibitions activate the historic setting and create an evolving cultural experience. Throughout the hotel, spaces including Bar Montez, Brasserie Cuvilliés, the Palaishof and the Asaya Spa reinforce its role as a destination for both visitors and the local community. A stained glass installation at Bar Montez further celebrates craftsmanship and artistic collaboration.

Located in Munich’s historic old town near Marienplatz, the hotel integrates naturally into its surroundings through adaptive reuse, local craftsmanship, heritage materials and cultural partnerships. Specialist restoration expertise was essential to conserve the façade, frescoes, vaulted ceilings, decorative plasterwork, mouldings and stone staircases, while skilled artisans produced bespoke joinery, furnishings and specialist finishes.

Rosewood Munich demonstrates how heritage and modernity can work together to create an emotionally engaging destination that honours the city’s architectural legacy while contributing to its contemporary cultural life.

Location: Munich, Germany

Architect: Hilmer Sattler Architekten Ahlers Albrecht

Interior Designer: Tara Bernerd & Partners & DiPPOLD Interior Design Studio

Hotel Group/ Developer: Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

Construction Company: Bayerische Hausbau GmbH & Co. KG

Photographer: Davide Lovatti