In 2019, a new chapter unfolded in the 400-year story of the heritage house Zum Goldenen Hirschen in Gmunden. When the neighboring property was acquired, it became a stroke of luck for the historic walls: renowned architect Inge Krebs-Hinterwirth carefully breathed new life into the building, creating a jewel of 21 unique rooms in the heart of Austria’s ceramic capital. With Ulrike and Christoph Parzer – she a gracious hostess, he an accomplished chef – the ideal couple was found to guide the house into the future with vision and charm.
Originally built in 1624 as a guesthouse, the building had most recently served as a modest residence. Architect Inge Krebs-Hinterwirth restored Zum Goldenen Hirschen to its original purpose. That it is not a listed monument may come as a surprise – many other uses would have been possible. Yet the owner chose to revitalize the substance in keeping with its past. She added only what was essential, such as a staircase, and carried out the renovation using existing elements and regional materials, including wooden floors by Trapa from nearby Traunkirchen. For her, this is the most contemporary way to build.
From the welcoming entrance with its historic niches and granite fountain to the traditional vaulted ceilings of the restaurant, the signature of architect Inge Krebs-Hinterwirth is evident: stylish, sensitive, and yet contemporary. In the restaurant, handwoven regional textiles and fine ceramics create an atmosphere that celebrates the art of dining. The historic wine cellar bridges history with modern accents, while in the garden a thousand-year-old linden tree provides soothing shade – a place where past and present seamlessly merge.
With sensitivity, the old is preserved and the new thoughtfully introduced: for example, an old sign now hangs again at the entrance, metal grilles have been newly installed in the wine cellar, and a cider press, antique Gmunden ceramic vases, and plates have been transformed into decorative objects. The antlers, referencing the house’s name, are displayed as décor with pink and blue loops at the restroom entrance, just as subtly as the many gold accents, found in the bathrooms and lighting fixtures.
Equally subtle are the old-Austrian colors from the Salzkammergut region. Armchairs from the attic and headboards are now upholstered in velvet green, while other headboards and the benches in the inn feature fabrics specially printed by ttt Blockprint from Attersee in green, purple, and pink patterns. Each of the 21 rooms is unique, with names like Platzhirsch or Geweihträger.
Throughout the house, local art by renowned artists such as Arnulf Rainer, Hermann Nitsch, Rudolf Leitner-Gründberg, and Erwin Wurm is on display – partly from the owners’ own collection, partly from the nearby GALERIE 422. A special highlight is the commissioned work by Constantin Luser: a golden stag, symbolizing the new chapter that effortlessly and lovingly blends history with modernity.
Sometimes you just have to dare to turn the page.
photos: Zum Goldenen Hirschen