You've heard of the term 'boutique hotel' – well Hotel Helvetia is an art boutique come hotel, a beautifully composed location full of inspiration – design, sensuality, ideas. On 1 November 2017 the listed historic building unveiled its new expanded form with the addition of 21 new rooms, bringing the total to 37.

Spanning five storeys, the Hotel Helvetia is as a glamorous riverside property in one of the finest spots in Zurich's historic centre.    Affectionately known as the 'Helvti', the building has long been notorious as a rendezvous point for musicians, artists, students and journalists from the nearby Tages-Anzinger newspaper. Today, it is a meeting place for a dynamic mix of bohemian and bourgeois, with gourmet diners at its tables and regular patrons at the bar putting the world to rights into the small hours.  The new wing, Stauffacherquai 3, a listed building like its neighbour, has been carefully repurposed in a complete renovation and upgraded to form part of a harmonious ensemble with the existing Art Nouveau (or Jugendstil) building.

The striking interiors were conceived by owner Leopold Weinberg in collaboration with architect Nele Dechmann.  The 21 new, air-conditioned rooms are designed with a true passion for detail, inspired by the airy geometry you find in works by Swiss artist Camille Graeser combined with bourgeois constraint to offer a lively interaction with the abundant artworks on display. The Hotel may have reinvented itself but it remains true to its eventful history and the building's association with the art world. The new lobby doubles as a showcase of contemporary pieces, with ever changing works from artists such as Imi Knoebel, Camille Graeser and Yves Laloy curated by Basel based gallerist Stefan von Bartha of Galerie von Bartha. It is a space that re-imagines not just ways to display art, but also how to welcome guests, a space that truly represents the spirit of the original house.

Chef Diego von Büren presides over a restaurant which has been awarded 14 Gault Millau points. Regional treats are delivered daily to the rooms for fresh grazing, whilst beauty products from Kiehl's and carefully chosen complimentary in-room goodies, from local chocolate to organic savoury snacks,  typify the attention to detail, day in, day out, that makes every stay a joy. Guests receive not just a key to their room but a “key to the city” as well, a personal concierge service that can help guests negotiate the terrain with special inside tips.

The rear view over the Sihl symbolises the positive energy and appeal that comes from hosts who know exactly how their city ticks. A passionate team pampers guests right round the clock with discreet, unfussy, professional service with a twinkle in its eye. Simplicity, nonchalance and a dose of contemporary culture are all included in the room price. 

Hotel Helvetia, Stauffacherquai 1, 8001 Zurich

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For more information or to discuss a press trip please get in touch with Kerry Skinner or Flora Gandolfo  at Bacall Associates.  Tel: 08704 288 401.