Swank and Art Deco at Hotel Topazz
Hotel Topazz ogles us from oversized oval portholes, a many-eyed monster just waiting to hold us in its onyx embrace. An homage to a legendary local design collective, Topazz updates art deco style with modern amenities and ecological sustainability less than a minute’s walk from Stephansdom. Open since April 2012, its 32 rooms and one penthouse in the four star superior range are a welcome new chapter in Vienna’s ever-developing cityscape.
The Experience
Sleek, dark, contemporary and stylish, Topazz stands apart from the bright fin-de-siécle townhouses surrounding it. The stark contrast would have undoubtedly pleased the famous artist Koloman Moser and his Wiener Werkstätte (Vienna Workshop, an association of artists and designers, 1903-1932), whose rejection of 19th century aesthetics and commitment to a Gesamtkunstwerk, a complete design experience permeating all aspects of living.
Our room is an oasis of style. Each of our portholes has a cushioned bench. I’m immediately drawn to them, bathing in the afternoon sun as if in the eye of a giant. This vantage point not only grants a great view of the bustle below, but also of the room itself: the cheerful curlicues, abstract geometry and Asian-influenced art deco patterns subtly merge. The playful lamps stand at attention on two duck feet like Baba Yaga’s hut, making me grin; I’m told that very often, guests ask to buy them. Our bathroom, all marble and stylish chrome fixtures, gives an exhilarating glimpse into the heart of Vienna. Opposite the bed is a 3D-TV; the futuristic glasses (and much-needed explanation on how to use them) are provided. A golden painting sprawls lazily across the rounded wall, loosening up the otherwise rather dark décor.
The breakfast combines buffet elements – such as excellent homemade muesli bars, spreads, cakes and yoghurts – with à la Carte service offering fresh egg dishes, ham and cheese platters. It’s all organic and local: the bread comes from the famous Joseph bakery, the tea from the renowned Haas & Haas teahouse. Our bubbly waitress seems to have more energy than a double espresso and is as attentive and cheerful as the rest of the staff.
Topazz does not offer dinner; you could follow their recommendation and eat at their sister establishment Café Bloom, right across the street. Far better though to venture forth and explore the cobblestone labyrinth that makes up the first district – Vienna has more fine restaurants than there are gems in the imperial treasury. For something traditional, try Zwölf Apostelkeller or Figlmüller, and for more contemporary local fare go to Labstelle; all are roughly a block away.
The Verdict
A luxurious pied-à-terre, Hotel Topazz is a modernist capsule with views that make Vienna your oyster. Go for the décor stay for the location.
Lichtensteg 3
1010 Vienna
+43 1 5322250
