Kimpton BEM Budapest: Marcel Wanders and Newmor Celebrate Hungarian Folklore in a Modern Luxury Escape

Designed by Marcel Wanders, Kimpton BEM Budapest honours Hungarian folklore while celebrating the city’s modern vitality, featuring elegantly appointed guest rooms, three innovative gastronomic concepts, alongside bespoke experiences.

Kimpton BEM Budapest featuring Newmor Wallcoverings

Budapest epitomizes the ebb and flow of new and old that makes Eastern Europe’s capitals so mesmerizing – the Kimpton BEM is a 19th-century mansion turned luxury hotel. Nestled along the banks of the Danube River on the city’s picturesque Buda side near the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Castle District, the hotel is a haven of comfort and luxury in the heart of the city.

The transformation of this long-forgotten 19th-century building has been meticulously created. Marcel Wanders has breathed new life into this historical, grade 2 listed mansion. Embracing the locality, the charm and the history to create a destination that echoes a forgotten era. Striking and stylish, the design inspiration originates from the history of the capital, each space a canvas painting Hungary’s vibrant soul.

The lobby entices visitors to embark on a mythological journey; one that is heightened by the large-scale golden stag showcased in a stained-glass atrium. Fables and legends passed down through generations are a genuinely important aspect of Hungarian culture, and it’s clear that Wanders spent ample time delving into this mystical heritage.

The guestrooms convey the city’s ever-changing panorama, connecting people with the place. Wanders is renowned for his unconventional and imaginative design philosophy. The hotel’s design borrows from Budapest’s rich folklore and vibrant energy, melding whimsical accents with historical elements. Enchanting patterns throughout the hotel pay homage to unique Hungarian mythological creatures and native flora. 

The 127 elegantly appointed guest rooms, 11 of which are suites, feature beautiful wallcovering from Newmor inspired by its unique location.

At the ground level, Bar Huso is inspired by the legend of Huso Huso, the beluga sturgeon – a mystical denizen of the Danube. Distinguished by its exceptional array of Hungarian and international wines, on weekends Bar Huso hosts live DJ sets, fostering a sense of community where guests and locals come together to celebrate and linger, reminisce, and rejoice.

Moray Forrest, Newmor Sales Director said:

“Kimpton BEM Budapest is a celebration of Budapest’s cultural history and Marcel Wanders imagination. Newmor are honoured to have supplied bespoke wallcoverings throughout the public areas, guestrooms and suites.”

 Moray Forrest and Marcel Wanders

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About Alys Bryan

Alys is a knowledgeable design editor who is focused on instigating conversations, both online and in-person, with industry experts which challenge, educate and advance the commercial interior sector. Her training and 15 years of professional experience as a furniture designer for the commercial sector makes her uniquely placed to lead Design Insider as Editor
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