Alden Hotel
The Alden Hotel, nested in a quiet part of Zurich, combines the architectural contradiction of old and new. It is located next to a small street and the surrounding neighborhood is calm with old and historic buildings.
Its unique shopwindow entrance, resembles a glass box protruding from the walls. Alongside large windows, that offer a glimpse into the hotel’s restaurant and bar, it sets a contrast to the traditional building. The facade is constructed of stone on the first floor, transitioning to brick walls on the upper levels, which also feature balconies and windows for the hotel rooms.
The shopwindow is set in a steel frame and breaks from the brick wall, inviting guests with its welcoming design. You can see the hotel lobby with a chair and several paintings before going through another doorway to get further into the building.
It shows a hint of what the hotel inside is like – a mix of old and new. While it is a window into the hotel, it does not reveal everything. If you walk through it, you find a bigger room with the hotel reception. From the street, you feel invited and see a bit of the inside, but once you go in, you find a hidden and beautiful spot in the city.
