The structure of the new hotel and restaurant building at the “Dornröschenburg” near Hofgeismar is abstractly situated along the imagined extension of the inner and outer castle ramparts. It maintains a respectful distance from the historic palace ruins—with their two imposing towers and gabled facades—yet possesses its own distinct character.

The side facing the landscape appears, in its materiality, as a massive stone castle wall, against which—inspired by the design of ancient fortified castles—the rooms for the kitchen, mechanical systems, stairwell, and some guest rooms are set on the rear side. The roof is covered with slate, and the walls are plastered with clay.

The entrance with its foyer is situated at the junction of old and new. Hotel guests are guided to the various “sleeping quarters”: the East and West Towers, the chancellery building, or the new wing are accessed via the forecourt, the service courtyard, or the tower staircases; along these routes, everyone is literally involved in castle life. The restaurant in the heart of the building is the perfect place to celebrate and offers a sweeping view over the wildlife parc into the distance.