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Conscious Future

Our Conscious Eye On
- The cōmodo

Conscious Hotel

Cōmodo 1
Cōmodo 2

Location

Bad Gastein, Austria


Architecture 

weStudio


Interior Design 

weStudio


Nearest Train Station

Bad Gastein Bahnhof

The awe-inspiring mountain surroundings of Bad Gastein provide the cōmodo with more than just scenic views—Among other sustainable and self-sufficient practices, the hotel gets its drinking water direct from the Austrian springs. A fitting approach, given that the waters were thought to have healing properties as far back as the 15th century.

The cōmodo is the resulting project of a group of creative Berliners who came together to realize a new hospitality venture in the Austrian Alps. Its approach to design, cuisine, and sustainability is one that is adaptable to change and rooted in a deep understanding of the history and location of the site.

Architecture

Architecture

The building was built in 1960. During the conversion, the entire supporting structure, materials, surfaces, and the swimming pool, were deliberately kept intact. All extensions were realized locally and sustainably with wood.

Energy

Energy

With 165 beds, we now need less energy than before the reconstruction, when there were only 45. The energy supply was converted to low temperature and a large part of the hotel’s electricity is generated sustainably by photovoltaics.

Water

Water

Our drinking water is supplied by a natural spring of the highest quality from the nearby mountains. We also use cisterns to reuse rainwater.

Products

Products & Produce

A farm-to-table approach to the food means that sustainability is key. In general, mostly regional and biodynamic producers are used.

Recreation

Recreation

The venue adapts its functions according to changing needs and seasons. We offer hiking, biking, climbing, cycling, skiing, meditation, ice baths, and yoga.

Accessability

Accessibility

Arrival by train is easy and encouraged. The venue is accessible by car, too, and we have charging stations for electric cars.

Healthyworkplace

Healthy Workplace

Employees come from diverse backgrounds. We offer coaching opportunities, team events, employee yoga, and complimentary food and staff lodging nearby.

Waste

Waste

We separate our waste and try to avoid it above all, including in construction and equipment.

Learn about our conscious principles

We spoke with Barbara Elwardt to learn the latest on the hotel’s conscious journey.

What is your sustainability philosophy?

Less is more, and good decisions need to be thought through. We repurposed a 1960s construction, so any new changes we needed to make, we evaluated with regards to the whole supply chain and lifecycle. Further, we don’t transport water, we use our own—being in an Alpine region affords us the purest quality, so our drinking water comes direct from the mountain. We use only regional products, sustainable cooking methods, and try to avoid plastic packaging and waste where possible. Lastly, our roof is covered in solar panels.

How do you forge a connection to the local community and cultural surroundings?

We want to be open and welcoming to everyone, especially our local community, who often come to the hotel for food and drinks. We worked with local companies for construction, and everyone we source is supplied locally. We’ve also started an artist residency program for local and international artists and encourage Bad Gastein residents to be a part of the concept.

What do you see as the biggest sustainability hurdle for hotels? How are you combating that?

Waste. It’s really hard to minimize, let alone avoid. But we’re always trying to do better. For example, we don’t have mini bars with bottled water; instead, guests can hydrate with our spring water, or join us at the bar for a chat. We also like to encourage guests to experience the surrounding village and any leisure activities without a car. Walking is more fun anyway!

Featured Hotels

T Generic The Comodo Bad Gastein Austria

the cōmodo

Bad Gastein, Austria

Featured Hotels

T Generic The Comodo Bad Gastein Austria

the cōmodo

Austria, Bad Gastein
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