Kimpton BEM Budapest, Hungary

Posted in Projects on 20 April, 2025

A mythical fusion of heritage and modernity.

Perched on the banks of the Danube, Kimpton BEM Budapest is a striking blend of historic grandeur and contemporary luxury. Designed by the visionary Marcel Wanders, this 19th-century mansion has been meticulously transformed into a five-star hotel that seamlessly marries Hungarian folklore with modern design. Through bold storytelling and imaginative aesthetics, Wanders has crafted an environment that is both enchanting and immersive, offering guests a unique and captivating experience.

Drawing inspiration from Hungarian fairy tale The Golden Stag and the Turul Bird, the hotel’s design narrative is deeply rooted in local legend. From the moment you step into the elegant lobby, you are in a world of mythological wonder. Reception desks in a soft palette of blues and greens are delicately mosaiced with intricate patterns of flowers. Their softly curved ends resemble upside-down eggs – a recurring shape in Wanders work – symbolising eternity and renewal. Recessed glass shelves sit against an illustrative mural of Budapest under a celestial sky and the all-important stag that sits at the centre of the narrative.

Ahead, the stag comes to life in a stained-glass atrium which bathes the space in ethereal light. Its vast golden form dominates the reception, leaving you in no doubt he is at the centre of the fairy tale that inspired the hotel’s design.

Above and top: Lobby.

The interiors are a meticulous fusion of textures and patterns, with a serene palette of cool tones juxtaposed against dramatic architectural elements. Concaved ceilings, lush greenery, and intricate patterns pay homage to Hungarian folklore, weaving together a space that is both nostalgic and avant-garde. Throughout the hotel, Wanders integrates native flora, including poppies and tulips, in delicate yet striking motifs, reinforcing the connection to nature and history.

Each of the 127 guestrooms, including 11 opulent suites, is a distinct chapter in the hotel’s grand narrative. The rooms are thematically divided into two primary inspirations: garden and sea.

The Garden Rooms exude warmth and natural beauty, adorned with botanical illustrations and light wood furnishings, reflecting Hungary’s rich landscapes. In contrast, the Sea Rooms are tranquil sanctuaries enveloped in varying shades of blue, featuring wave motifs and an octopus-adorned headboard, evoking the mysterious depths of the Danube river.

For guests seeking a celestial escape, the Cosmos and Observatory Suites transport them beyond earthly bounds. These spaces embrace the vastness of the sky, with celestial motifs and a sense of openness that mirrors the night sky. The Observatory Suite boasts an 800-square-foot rooftop terrace, offering panoramic views of Budapest — an ideal retreat for stargazing or simply absorbing the city’s breathtaking skyline.

Dining at Kimpton BEM Budapest is a sensory experience as meticulously curated as its interiors. The hotel features three distinct gastronomic venues, each reflecting a different facet of Hungarian culture and mythology.

AGOS Restaurant and Suite detail.

AGOS Restaurant blends Hungarian traditions with Mediterranean influences under the direction of Executive Chef Attila Fehér. Here, fresh ingredients and bold flavours come together in a contemporary yet authentic culinary tapestry.

Bar Huso, named after the legendary beluga sturgeon, immerses guests in an aquatic dreamscape. The space is drenched in deep blues, orb-like art installations and lush greenery, inspired by the Danube’s depths. The bar offers an impressive selection of Hungarian and international wines alongside a curated cocktail menu, complemented by live DJ sets that transition the ambiance from day to night.

Looking out over the city, Fennen is an exclusive urban retreat. This sky-high sanctuary, adorned with verdant foliage and intimate seating, offers aged spirits, Japanese whiskey and Cuban cigars – an indulgence to be savoured against the backdrop of Budapest’s cityscape.

Marcel Wanders’ approach to Kimpton BEM Budapest defies conventional luxury, injecting humour, whimsy and an element of surprise at every turn.

Beyond its design and dining, Kimpton BEM Budapest ensures a holistic guest experience. BEM Wellness features a 24/7 fitness centre equipped with TechnoGym facilities, a hot tub and a steam room, catering to both relaxation and revitalization. For those eager to explore the city, designer bicycles are available for guests to borrow at their leisure.

In keeping with the Kimpton tradition, the hotel fosters a sense of community through its daily Social Hour, providing solo travellers and groups alike with a space to connect over beverages and conversations.

Kimpton BEM Budapest is not only a design success but also a beacon of responsible hospitality. As a proud participant in IHG Hotels’ Low Carbon Pioneers programme, the hotel is committed to sustainability, implementing energy-efficient systems and renewable practices without compromising its luxurious essence.

Marcel Wanders’ approach to Kimpton BEM Budapest defies conventional luxury, injecting humour, whimsy and an element of surprise at every turn. His larger-than-life design philosophy breathes new life into a historic building, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and playful. The hotel’s seamless blend of Hungarian heritage, modern sophistication and immersive storytelling makes it a rare gem in the capital – one that offers not just a stay, but a journey through time, myth and design excellence.