The Hotel Liberty near Offenburg, Germany has opened following three years of renovations by German design studio Knoblauch. A former prison situated against the Black Forest, the property’s 38 rooms are spread across two 19th-century buildings and joined by a contemporary glass box.
In addition to serving as a gateway, the glass box extension houses the hotel’s restaurant Wasser&Brot, as well as the gallery, library, and lounge, which hosts a tapas and high tea concept. The second-floor conference and meeting room is positioned as if floating in midair. A neutral palette allows the original architectural to serve as the focal point of the hotel, and the rooftop is appointed with an urban garden and terrace for communal gatherings.
Much of the stonework from Heinrich Hübsch’s original design is incorporated into the aesthetic of the guestrooms, which are formed by combining several former cells. Accommodations marry traditional craftsmanship with contemporary elements such as oak floors and distressed leather. Modern, handmade furniture and accessories from local artisans populate the rooms, which embrace a tonal green palette that complements the dark oak parquet floors and red brick vaulted ceilings. Black leather headboards contrast the pristine white linens, and each minibar is stored within custom, gray-green lacquered cabinets.
