Natasha Levy

🏨 In 1854, a historic post office was built in Vienna's Fleischmarkt district, serving for 150 years. London-based designer Stephanie Barba Mendoza transformed this 19th-century building into the Wilde aparthotel. Mendoza drew inspiration from Vienna's rich artistic past, incorporating elements of the Viennese Secession and Wiener Werkstätte movements. The design aims to blend the post office's historical significance with the city's vibrant coffeehouse culture, making shared spaces feel relevant and lively today.

🏨 Capella Kyoto, designed by Kengo Kuma and Brewin Design Office, opened in Kyoto's historic Gion district on a former primary school site. The hotel’s interior design emulates the staggered layout of traditional machiya townhouses, featuring 89 wood-lined rooms and 3 restaurants, including the French brasserie Lanterne. Notable elements include a central courtyard with a pond, rooms with views of local landmarks, and six suites with onsen-style tubs. This project highlights a modern homage to Kyoto's cultural heritage.