SO/ Vienna is a shimmering tower of glass that draws inspiration from the city's Stephansdom

French Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel is renowned for his unique approach to architecture, one that defies a singular signature style. Instead of opting for generic designs that lack character, Nouvel's work passionately responds to the world's obsession with rootless buildings by creating spaces that harmonise with their surroundings, embracing the local climate, ambience, history, and geography. By integrating natural light, innovative materials, and a profound respect for cultural context, his buildings are not just striking; they create meaningful experiences.

As an enthusiastic traveller, Nouvel understands the magic behind a hotel - it's more than a temporary home; it's an adventure waiting to spark the imagination. “A hotel is always a little adventure” he states. “You want to create emotions”. For the SO/ Vienna hotel, Nouvel took inspiration from the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom), a cornerstone of Austrian architecture. He admired its steeply inclined roofline and vibrant, multi-tonal tiles that shimmer under changing light - a tribute to Vienna's storied past. He aimed to create a building that feels abstract yet connected, opting for a trapezoidal design that plays with monochromatic elements.

In a fascinating collaboration, Nouvel partnered with celebrated Swiss video artist Pipilotti Rist, blending her bold, colourful projections with his minimalist aesthetic. The result is a captivating spectacle where his monochrome hues serve as a backdrop for vibrant, large-scale artworks that dance across the ceilings. Each projection envelops visitors in a surreal, multi-sensory experience, echoing the kaleidoscopic effects of stained glass in the cathedral below, inviting viewers to see the world again from a child's perspective from below.

Rist's artistic touch is evident throughout the hotel, mesmerising guests on three distinct levels. The street-level external projection invites you into a dynamic space where daily life unfolds, and is home to major fashion events - SO/ Vienna regularly collaborates with both local and international designers, hosting in-house fashion shows and shoots, for magazines such as Vogue, as well as events supporting emerging labels from Vienna's fashion scene.

In the stunning fifth-floor wellness retreat, mirrors reflect Rist's entrancing ceiling motifs in a play of light. The Wellness Retreat is something else entirely! A magical space, an oasis of tranquillity and relaxation and an architectural and visual feast. There are two fabulous, bubbling pools, stunning relaxation areas, treatment rooms, and a sauna, all overlooking the city! While the staggering gym literally projects you into Rist's fantastical vision, plunging over a void, revealing several architectural layers.

But the pièce de résistance is undoubtedly in the top-floor restaurant, Das Loft, which is one of Vienna's most sought-after restaurants. This voluminous space, complete with a raised mezzanine bar, offers panoramic views of Vienna. Here, Rist's vibrant, ceiling art captivates the senses, is enhanced by Nouvel's ingenious design that makes the ceiling appear to float outside the building, creating an airy, ethereal atmosphere.

We opted for the sublime memory-making tasting menu (à la carte is also available) with wine pairing by Sommelier Tomas Hynek, who really amped up the experience - when Hynek talks about wine, his eyes light up with excitement. Does he have a favourite wine? That's a resounding no! Life is too short to drink the same wine twice! His expertise elevated our already fabulous meal into an unforgettable experience. Do not miss out on cocktails at the elevated bar first - and after, when a host of cool DJs continue into the night. 

 (Menu Das Loft)

The interiors of SO/ Vienna reflect Nouvel's minimalist philosophy with elegant monochrome rooms and suites that prioritise space and serenity. The only colour in the rooms erupts playfully from the wardrobes. At the same time, thoughtful furniture design, much of which Nouvel crafted himself, enriches the spaces. Grey prevails in the public areas—not as a dull choice, but as a powerful tool to reveal the design's essence. Each of the guest rooms and suites boasts panoramic views over the beautiful city, allowing guests to connect with Vienna's stunning architecture.

My stay in the SO COMFY room was nothing short of vast and breathtaking, overlooking the historic old town, and the majestic cathedral and the serene canal. One especially clever design feature is the wooden window shutter panels, which not only block out the light entirely but also let you customize your view via sliding shutter panels that resemble a jigsaw puzzle. They brilliantly prevent harsh sunlight from glaring through the expansive glazing (and they open) while still allowing you to soak in the stunning panoramic view. Just a word of caution - you might find yourself losing track of time as you fine-tune your perfectly framed view!

While an easy-gliding, unfolding wall panel allows the open-plan bathroom to be easily closed off for privacy, Nouvel's design masterfully blends modernity and minimalism while integrating seamlessly with the city's cultural backdrop. It creates a vibrant dialogue between the historic and the contemporary, showcasing Nouvel's signature style. SO/ Vienna isn't your everyday minimalist space; it offers a unique combination of comfort and elegance.

By night, So/ Vienna is nothing short of a dazzling spectacle, transforming into an illuminated beacon that captivates the eye with its stunning horizontal slashes of colour. Whether day or at night, this place is truly a feast for the senses. And it’s fun!