Since its establishment, Hotel Imperial Vienna has been a beacon of elegance and luxury, witnessing numerous transformations and milestones over the decades. Let's delve deeper into its rich history, spanning from its inception to the recent changes under the ownership of Al-Habtoor Group.
1955 marked a significant moment as Hotel Imperial Vienna was returned to the Austrian Republic on September 18th, after a period of transition. Following this, a series of extensive renovations commenced from 1956 to 1958, with investments totaling approximately ATS 80 million (equivalent to Euro 5.81 million, US$5.5 million, UK£3.8 million), enhancing the hotel's grandeur and facilities.
The journey of modernization continued in 1969 when the hotel installed air-conditioning, a remarkable addition for guest comfort. Recognizing its prestige, Hotel Imperial became a select member of The Most Famous Hotels in the World in 1986, solidifying its position among the world's elite accommodations.
The late 1980s witnessed changes in ownership and management structure. In 1987, Creditanstalt bank, the majority shareholder of Imperial Hotels Austria AG, opted to sell some shares and hand over management responsibilities to the CIGA Group. This transition paved the way for extensive renovations across all hotels within the group, including Hotel Imperial. Notably, in 1990, significant changes were made to the hotel's layout, reducing the number of rooms to favor larger accommodations. Moreover, four floors underwent complete renovations, aligning with contemporary standards of luxury hospitality.
A pivotal moment arrived in 1995 when ITT Sheraton acquired a substantial stake (47.4 percent) from CIGA, integrating Hotel Imperial into its esteemed collection known as "The Luxury Collection." This association ushered in a new era of global recognition and elevated service standards.
The late 1990s witnessed further changes with Starwood Hotels & Resorts assuming ownership and management of Hotel Imperial in 1998. Under the leadership of Erhard Noreisch, the hotel underwent another wave of renovations, symbolizing a commitment to maintaining its status as a premier destination. The grand celebration of the hotel's 125th anniversary in April 1998 showcased its enduring appeal, with guests reveling in the festivities until the early hours.
The dawn of the new millennium brought forth extensive renovations amounting to over 10 million US dollars, focusing on enhancing the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors, as well as rejuvenating the facade. Notable additions included maisonette suites overlooking the renowned concert hall "Musikverein" and a state-of-the-art fitness center with sauna facilities.
In the following years, Hotel Imperial continued to refine its offerings, with meticulous attention to detail evident in the restoration of the Belle Époque suites and the creation of signature amenities such as the "Imperial Selection" chocolate.
The mid-2010s marked a period of transition, with changes in management and ownership. Notably, in 2016, Starwood Hotels sold the property to the UAE-based Al-Habtoor Group, signaling a new chapter in the hotel's illustrious history.
As Hotel Imperial Vienna continues to evolve, its timeless elegance and commitment to excellence remain unwavering, ensuring a memorable experience for discerning travelers from around the globe.
