Case study: Alpine architecture and Japanese bathing culture from TOTO

Across the world, Japanese culture and aesthetics continue to attract growing interest. Within hospitality, bathroom concepts inspired by Japanese bathing culture, centred around relaxation, purification, wellbeing and harmony, are also gaining momentum.

Image credit: Jessica Machon

At the family-owned five-star hotel Das Central in Sölden, this philosophy has been realised through an ambitious renovation project. Located in Austria’s Ötztal Alps, the hotel is now characterised by natural materials, generous spaces and a spectacular Summit Spa. Japanese bathing culture has also found its place within the bathrooms through the integration of the innovative TOTO WASHLET.

“Exclusive bidet toilets have become a standard feature in five-star hospitality, which is why we selected TOTO WASHLET to meet the highest standards of comfort, hygiene and design down to the finest detail,” explained owner Angelika Falkner.

Situated in the heart of Sölden yet peacefully nestled within the Alpine valley, the hotel, founded in 1969, is among the region’s most established destinations. Combining Tyrolean tradition with an international lifestyle, it has become a benchmark among Alpine five-star hotels. A true architectural highlight, the Summit Spa was constructed as an extension atop the existing building.

Offering panoramic views across the Ötztal Alps, the wellness space features a striking glass infinity pool that appears to float above the rooftops. Visible from the hotel entrance, surrounding streets and even nearby gondolas, the new spa has become an integral part of the village landscape.

The renovation was designed by MIKA Projektmanagement GmbH and Wimreiter & Partner GmbH, with the aim of expanding the hotel while establishing a distinctive architectural identity. Clean lines are combined with materials deeply rooted in Alpine building traditions, with natural stone, timber and tactile surfaces shaping the atmosphere throughout.

“We wanted to create the most natural feeling possible for the hotel, relying on a proven quartet of cool stone, local wood, smooth leather and warm loden materials,” explained Michael Waschl, illustrating the balance between Alpine authenticity and timeless elegance.

Large glazed openings invite the surrounding mountain landscape indoors. Architecture and nature interact closely, shaping the character of the entire hotel. The same approach extends to the suites and guest rooms, where high-quality materials, refined lines and thoughtful detailing create spaces dedicated to calm and relaxation.

The hotel’s international outlook is particularly evident in selected suites, where guests can experience TOTO WASHLET. Offering warm-water cleansing, intuitive controls and advanced comfort features, WASHLET reflects a design philosophy rooted in hygiene and wellbeing. While this technology has been part of everyday life in Japan for decades, it is increasingly regarded as a hallmark of luxury hospitality across Europe.

At Das Central, the understated design of WASHLET integrates seamlessly into the hotel’s refined bathroom architecture, contributing to a holistic wellness experience.

Das Central approaches architecture as a form of experience. Materials, light and views are designed to evoke emotion and make each stay truly memorable. Owner Angelika Falkner describes the vision behind the concept: “A spa above the rooftops of Sölden, a place to gather and toast with breathtaking views, and suites with that extra special touch. This is how we aim to surprise our guests and create unforgettable moments.”

“One of the project’s greatest challenges was the extremely short timeframe between two seasons,” explained the planning team led by Michael Kajnih at Mika Projektmanagement GmbH. The renovation had to be completed within a narrow window to reopen in time for the next ski season. Challenging Alpine access, changing weather conditions and limited storage capacity required precise coordination between all trades and deliveries. The result demonstrates how careful planning and high-quality execution can succeed even in highly complex conditions.

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