What's Eclectic Design?

The word eclectic came originally from the Greek word eklegein and meant 'pick out'. We use it similarly today in different industries to indicate from a broad range of sources.

The word is used in different fields, from eclectic therapy that adapts to the unique needs of the individual and draws on a variety of therapeutic strategies to eclecticism in architecture. This style dominated the 19th and 20th century with building designs that incorporated ornamental, structural and other elements from different periods, along with more modern elements.

When looking at eclectic interior design, we rightfully expect to see a similar trend. Instead of just having a standard design based on a single motif, our designers look at different elements in the neighbourhood that can inspire during various stages of the design process. Not only do they pull on the local aesthetic, but they also use natural elements like fire, earth and wood for our design basis.

For example, we used eclectic design elements in our property Sketch, built at the beginning of the 20th century as a multistory factory. Located in Friedrichshain, the district was a former industrial neighbourhood that has been slowly shaped by multiple punk movements into one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Berlin. With its signature red facade, the building now offers a unique look into the past.

The history of Sketch is essential when deciding which design elements to follow. By picking a few aspects, we can set clear goals for what we envision an end-product to look like while making sure we bring local culture into each of the rooms.

We chose strong and bold colours for the industrial past and combined them with atmospheric lights, high ceilings and large windows to introduce more trendy and artistic elements. To enhance the experience even further, our interior designers worked with several local artists to commission paintings specifically for this design.

Sketch's eclectic design can be seen in the textile patterns, the contrasting colours that pair with the mural at the building entrance and the industrial architecture of the rooms with modern and unique local artwork.

Another example of this eclectic design is our property Wood in Vienna. Wood has a resolute ambience in three of the most culturally significant districts in Vienna: Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, Neubau and the Mariahilfer. The sustainable design fuses together elements of the multicultural, contemporary and hip aesthetic, reflecting the character of the three surrounding neighbourhoods.

With an avant-garde interior design made entirely of sustainably sourced spruce trees, Wood's name gives away its radical design. For each of the 1,500 spruce trees used in construction, they were replaced with one or two seedlings located eight minutes away in Vienna's enchanting forest. By planting trees, the design isn’t just sustainable--it symbolises what is possible for the future.

These are just two examples of our many properties throughout Europe that each has uniquely designed interiors. The rooms at our properties represent our mission to unite the comfort of a private home and the delight of a boutique experience.

The multi-purpose spaces are suited for both leisure travellers who wish to enjoy popular European cities at their own pace and people looking for a temporary residence for extended stays. Moreover, thanks to our unique business model and technology initiatives, we are able to democratise the boutique experience at an affordable price point.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our uniquely designed properties!