Big name architects including Adolf Loos, Eichinger oder Knechtl, Sir Terence Conran, Anne Lacaton and Jean Philippe Vassal have created bars and restaurants in Vienna that are well worth a visit thanks to their design alone.
Vienna has a long tradition of bars and restaurants with unusual interior designs. A century ago Viennese architect and modernist pioneer Adolf Loos created a timeless atmosphere with his compact Loos American Bar. It was the forerunner of several “American Bars” that sprouted in Vienna but continues to be the best of them and is a classic example of Vienna’s stylish eateries.
The legendary Café Drechsler was refurbished with a touch of flair by British star designer Sir Terence Conran. It is safe to say that the revamped Café Drechsler already has all the makings of a classic.
Located in the MuseumsQuartier, Café Restaurant Milo is noteworthy for its architecture. French architects Anne Lacaton and Jean Philippe Vassal have followerd a minimalist approach. The mosaic ceiling work from Turkish artist Asiye Kolbai-Kafalier provides a contrast to the minimalist architecture elsewhere.
The Austrian Museum of Applied Arts / Contemporary Art (MAK) is another institution that puts the spotlight on design. After a refurbishment, the restaurant meets the highest standards. It is designed by Viennese architect duo, Eichinger oder Knechtl. Taking a classic Viennese hostelry as their point of departure, the duo have created a new take on the traditional Viennese eatery through the use of unusual materials and innovative solutions.
They have also designed Unger und Klein, a cross between a wine store and bar. A long, curved wine shelf dominates the bar, clearly showing that the wine is the central attraction and also helps with storage.
By Chitra Mogul
