A beacon of modern luxury stands before you. This is The Fontenay in Hamburg. The Fontenay offers sophistication and tranquility in the heart of the city.
The Fontenay’s name comes from John Fontenay. He was a Philadelphia-born shipbroker. In the early 19th century, he owned this land. Today, the street bears his name.
Opened in March 2018, The Fontenay balances nature and urban living. Hamburg is known as a green city. Twenty-seven percent of it is natural areas around the lake. The Fontenay reflects modern Hamburg and its shoreline.
The architecture is free-flowing and sculptural. Jan Störmer designed it. The interiors are stylish and spacious.
Notice the Heaven Mirror fountain. It weighs one hundred tonnes. The gracious staff welcomes you into the lobby.
Inside, you’ll find a pyriform atrium. It soars nearly 100 feet high. A glittering chandelier hangs within. The custom carpet comes from Hong Kong. High tea and cocktails are popular here. Natural light floods the space.
To the side, discover a library. It is a modern version of an old drawing room. Felix Jud, old Hamburg booksellers, curated the 1000-book collection. A ladder helps you reach the upper shelves.
There are no parallel lines inside The Fontenay. Rooms line the outer corridors. The inner side is windowed. Light floods in from the courtyard. Wavy geometric forms grace the facade.
The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows. Light oakwood floors add brightness. You will find a walk-in closet. Quirky colored lights are in the rainshower. TVs swing in either direction.
The Fontenay Bar is on the sixth floor. It offers a nearly 360-degree view. A terrace wraps around it. A spiral staircase leads to the Lakeside restaurant. Its decor is light and airy.
Klaus-Michael Kühne owns The Fontenay. He calls it “my little Elbphilharmonie.” This references the concert house on the Elbe River.
Step outside to walk or bike by the lake. Visit the Alster pier. Vintage 1930s steamer ferries travel the lake. Canals north of here outnumber those in Venice and Amsterdam.
Return for breakfast at Parkview restaurant. Soaring windows face the garden and lake. The house’s étagère option is a visual and savory hit. Enjoy smoked fish and crab salad. Sample wursts and cheeses. Try a muesli mix with German breads and pastries.
The Fontenay stands six stories high. A penthouse restaurant crowns it. This design avoids skyscrapers. The white facade follows local rules. Buildings on Alster Lake must be white.
The roof has aluminum standing seams. This reflects the building’s organic design. The dome roof uses tapered Kalzip in white. This completes the structure. It forms a distinctive fifth facade.
The Fontenay is more than a hotel. It is a Hamburg experience. The Fontenay blends luxury, nature and urban charm. Its unique design and prime location make it unforgettable.