Architecture with a mission: Villa Viva – A house that builds wells
7 min read
Water is one of our most valuable resources and the foundation of life. In 2010, access to water was declared a human right. Despite this, UNICEF estimates that around two billion people around the world have no regular access to safe drinking water. Viva con Agua, with its clear motto of “Water for all, all for water”, seeks to urgently address this situation. Its latest project is a social hotel in Hamburg’s historic Münzviertel district. After opening last November, it has welcomed countless guests and is part of the Heimathafen®Hotels group. This impressive building also features clever products from Gira and KEUCO.
More than a hotel
Villa Viva encompasses twelve and a half floors. Describing itself as a “place of togetherness”, it not only offers various options for overnight stays, but is also the ideal location for meetings, events and celebrations. But what makes this hotel truly unique is the fact that 40% of its profits go towards the work of Viva con Agua, helping to build wells in various developing countries like Uganda and South Africa.
Diverse interior design
Inside, there is plenty on offer: from ARTrooms and creative culinary offerings to a “magic” reception desk, an office playground, a mini sauna and much more. “It’s all about telling stories”, says Benne Wolfers, Communications Coordinator at Viva con Agua. As soon as they arrive, guests can enjoy a delicious meal in the Viva Cantina or have a drink in the tastefully designed seating areas. The impressive spaces were designed in a modern style with an eye for detail, with the topic of water ever present.
Sustainability in every aspect
Right from the start, the project’s focus was on sustainability – from the raw materials used to the fittings and equip-ment. This meant relying on recycled or low-CO2 materials, while most of the walls were left unplastered. The heart of the sustainability philosophy is the five-metre-high water tank, the contents of which is warmed via solar thermal panels on the building's roof.
The Barbara Schöneberger Suite, named after a famous German TV personality, creates a feeling of luxury with KEUCO EDITION 400 fittings in bronze and bright gold switches from Gira’s Esprit line. Gira also provides the smart home systems that offer additional convenience.
Home away from home
The various accommodation options begin at the fourth floor. Alongside six different room categories (Tiny, Small, Medium, Large, Fancy and Suite), guests can enjoy a romantic camping experience in the heart of the city in the Camping Ground. Each room is individually designed and offers guests an unforgettable experience.
Room category Fancy:
The spacious Fancy room category features a small living area that invites guests to relax.
"What people touch is what they will remember."
Benjamin Adrion
Founder of Viva con Agua
Villa Viva is there for everyone!
Guests can stay overnight in cosy cabins on the "Camping Ground" for as little as 19.10 euros.
Stylish details from Gira and KEUCO
Gira and KEUCO too were inspired by this unique social project, and decided to incorporate their products throughout the entire building. The bathrooms feature premium IXMO fittings from KEUCO. Both functional and aesthetic, their clear and contemporary design stylishly underlines the overall concept. Meanwhile, the E2 light switches from Gira elegantly complement the walls and complete the modern look. The suites, one of which was developed together with German musician Jan Delay, deliver unlimited comfort with Gira smart home technology.
Some rooms were elaborately decorated by various artists and fitted with E2 switches from Gira in matt grey. As well as adding a dash of colour, the orange socket outlets are always live.
Head in the clouds
For the building’s crowning glory, guests must head to the twelfth floor, where the RoofDrop Bar invites them to spend a pleasant evening together. As an organically designed space focused on experience, the bar offers a breathtaking view over the city stretching all the way to the port. It is the perfect place to raise a glass and end a day or evening on a high. There is even a small sauna for a spot of wellness.
The result, is the creation of a unique addition to Hamburg’s Münzviertel district, emphasising connections, togetherness and the importance of water, while also doing some good in the world. One thing is for sure: no other project can pour cold water on Villa Viva.
Organically designed elements create a natural and inviting ambience.
The rooftop terrace gives visitors a breath-taking view over Hamburg stretching all the way to the Elbphilharmonie concert hall.
The BERÜHRUNSGPUNKTE Architektur Scouts joined Benjamin Adrion (founder of Viva con Agua) for a tour of the new hotel. Discover more in the vlog!
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