Villa Muhr
The restoration of Villa Muhr combines its rich history with contemporary architectural principles and sustainable solutions. Originally designed in 1902 by Austrian architect Franz Ritter von Neumann for Adolf Muhr, the villa first served as a hunting retreat and later as a royal residence, hospital, and hotel annex. Due to neglect, it had deteriorated by 2014, leaving only its stone foundations. The new design, inspired by Bohinj’s architectural heritage, reinterprets traditional Alpine elements while respecting the historical footprint of the building. Its volumetric presence and orientation are preserved, and reclaimed stone from the ruins is incorporated into the façade, maintaining a tangible link to the past. The ground floor is built from restored stone, while the upper levels are clad in Slovenian carbonized wood, ensuring durability without chemical treatments. Today, the villa blends hospitality, culture, and history. The ground floor houses a restaurant with an interior crafted from reclaimed wood, while the first-floor conference hall offers a dynamic space for gatherings. The upper floors feature four exclusive suites, each with unique elements such as fireplaces, saunas, and panoramic views. Large openings and balconies create a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. The underground tunnel, once connecting the villa to the hotel, has been transformed into an exhibition space that narrates the villa’s history. Handcrafted wooden chandeliers and perforated motifs inspired by local traditions further emphasize the cultural identity of the site. The reconstruction of Villa Muhr is an architectural tribute to the past, skillfully bridging tradition and modernity while serving as a model for sustainable restoration.
