Falkensteiner Balance Resort Stegersbach

As is well known, change happens in waves. The first construction phase at Stegersbach’s Balance Resort, completed in 2005, can be seen as as a wave that’s been transformed into architecture, a landmark visible from afar situated in the existing topography of a gently rolling ice-age sand dune. Planned by Archisphere, the main body, which circles a central atrium, is partially hidden from view. This unique curvature, which fits into the unique location, arouses curiosity and at the same time makes the cubic content seem much smaller than it actually is, resulting in an interesting interplay of light and shadow at all times of day. Due to the orientation of the curved main body, the restaurant, bar and spa receive sunlight from midday to sundown. The two glass panoramic elevators are also flooded with light: They connect all six levels and ensure simple navigation through the building. In addition, bridges extend across the space on two levels. On the entrance level the reception area connects seamlessly with the bar and ends in a subtly separated cigar lounge, featuring a 4.5 meter humidor. In front of it, there’s an extensive garden terrace. Fireside conversations can be had in a small library. One level lower, guests can access the restaurant from the elevator, either over one of the bridges or through the cozy vinothek. The seminar area is located on the lowest level, where the atrium can be used as either a breakroom or a stage for presentations. The three seminar spaces, which can be connected, provide direct access to the natural surroundings and outdoor conference areas surrounded by hedges. Construction of the Balance Resort in Stegersbach followed an invited architectural competition in fall 2002. Ground was broken in summer 2003, and the hotel opened in March 2005. Everything, from the architecture to the aboveground construction and the interior, was completed as part of the project, and the architectural firm arch.eu planned the execution.
Twelve years after the successful opening, Archisphere provided the Falkensteiner Hotel Stegersbach 2017 with a thoughtful update. Through subtle architectural interventions, the resort now presents itself once again completely at the pulse of time.The 2017 update is also based on this foundation: whoever enters this environment marked by attentiveness comes to find his or her centre, washed by the decelerating water. Seen in this light, the element of life was also central to the design of archisphere: Soothing blue tones meet warm sandstone colours as well as natural brown tones, rich stone grey and the glowing gold of light. All rooms are now equipped with wooden floors, carpets and new sofas. Family rooms have been transformed into luxurious double rooms with bathrooms facing the façade, en-suite bathrooms have been enhanced with natural stone washbasins, solid wood frames, large-format wall tiles, marble tops and spacious showers. The general spa area has had a second infinity outdoor pool since 2017. A relaxation room lit only by candlelight and two pavilion-like panoramic relaxation rooms with views over the park were also newly created. The new access to the nude area is protected from view. The sauna area was completely redesigned with spacious showers and a Finnish Zen sauna. The sauna courtyard with whirlpool was extended by an indoor reclining area and an enlargement of the outdoor reclining area. Previously located underground, the completely glazed and light-flooded outdoor sauna now forms one level with the whirlpool.
The bright bistro, which has two large garden terraces, has also been enlarged. The atrium, also newly designed, is a living room, bar and library in one. A wide staircase leads from here to the restaurant area, where a discreet restructuring has created not only more space but also intimate areas with comfortable velvet benches. A new material, colour and lighting concept as well as the reorganization of the buffet and show kitchen ultimately round off the 5-star upgrade in its harmonious perfection.