The new Hilton Vienna Waterfront
OXBO Bar at the Hilton Vienna Waterfront designed by THDP
Hilton Vienna Waterfront has reopened following a one-of-a-kind and comprehensive renovation by international interior design studio THDP, featuring redesigned rooms and suites; an expanded leisure and event space; and the new OXBO restaurant and bar.
Located at Handelskai in a historic grain silo from 1911, the hotel combines urban history, authentic Viennese lifestyle, and the comfort of a modern oasis. With its unique view of the Danube and Danube Island, Hilton Vienna Waterfront invites business travellers to blend work and relaxation for a true Vienna experience.
The new hotel design draws on the industrial heritage of the building and its riverside location, reflected in spacious rooms and suites, decorated in deep blue, rust orange, and brown tones.
Warm natural hues and bright accents create a fresh, casual atmosphere and space for relaxation. Minimalist, rustic elements in the furnishings subtly reference the building’s former use as a grain silo that once fed old Vienna. Here, the site’s history merges with today’s vibrant, sustainable and welcoming surroundings.
“The finishes are inspired by the grandeur and eclectic nature of Vienna: green stone inspired by the Danube river; the ‘rattan’ custom wall covering created to celebrate Austria’s association with design and especially Thonet and Wittman.”
The Hilton Vienna Waterfront boasts 340 meticulously designed rooms, each thoughtfully crafted to provide the utmost comfort and style. THDP has infused each room with a sense of modern sophistication, utilising a harmonious blend of high-quality materials, contemporary furnishings, and subtle yet impactful design elements. The design aims to create a sanctuary for guests, where they can unwind and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings while experiencing the highest standards of hospitality.
“The colours and textures were taken from life around the river, and from the historic elements of the building. The industrial character and the previous use were maintained, thus using the colours of the wheat field and the Danube that along its route, not only connects regions, but also times. And all its apparent contrasts“, said Nicholas J Hickson.
The OXBO Bar, together with the restaurant and terrace provide a relaxed, social, and warm atmosphere for private celebrations, business lunches, or dinners. The bar design is a mix of contemporary and chic, blending industrial characteristics taken from the key side boat cranes and fusing it with finishes such as walnut and polished metals of copper and brass. The dark bronze arms of the new feature bar gantry support a re-imagined boat crane feature display for three activities: cocktails, beer and coffee.
“Completing the design of the Hilton Danube Waterfront hotel stands as a testament to THDP's commitment to excellence in interior design and architecture within the hospitality sector. By blending the natural beauty of the riverside location with sophisticated and functional design elements, THDP has created a unique and memorable destination for travellers. This project not only highlights the studio's expertise in hotel design but also reinforces its reputation for delivering exceptional and innovative design solutions tailored to the needs and desires of both clients and guests,” said Nicholas J Hickson.
Words by: THDP
THDP was founded by partners Architect Manuela Mannino & Interior Designer Nicholas J Hickson in London in 2005. In 2022 Manuela created the studio in Milan. Together the THDP studio in London and Milan oversee pioneering projects throughout Europe.
Images courtesy of THDP and Hilton Vienna Waterfront