Elevating the Design Narrative at Mandarin Oriental, Vienna
Mandarin Oriental’s arrival in Vienna marks a significant moment for the city’s luxury landscape. Set within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel’s transformation of the former Commercial Court blends historic grandeur with a contemporary design language crafted by Goddard Littlefair.
The carpet design played a central role in the architectural dialogue of this iconic hotel. Ulster Carpets developed a series of bespoke Axminster designs that respond directly to the building’s heritage and Goodard Littlefair’s refined interior concept. Across corridors and meeting spaces, the carpets draw on the ideals of the Viennese Secession, using subtle geometry, depth, and texture to unify the scheme.
Ulster Carpets stands as one of the world’s leading creators of bespoke Axminster carpets, recognised for a blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation that has shaped the company since 1938.
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Jo Littlefair, Director and Co-founder from Goddard Littlefair said:
“The building’s history as Vienna’s former Commercial Court became the starting point for our design narrative. We wanted the interiors to respect the gravitas of the architecture while introducing a contemporary layer that felt distinctly Mandarin Oriental. Working closely with Ulster Carpets allowed us to develop a series of bespoke Axminster designs that responded directly to that vision.”
Martin Goddard, Director and Co-founder from Goddard Littlefair, added:
“The carpet in Klimt room represents the movement of the Viennese waltz, while the Schiele room adopts a more structured, geometric language. The corridor carpet has reference to the historical checker tile pattern that was there originally. Together the designs echo the rhythm of the architecture and lighting, creating a seamless and elegant guest journey.”
Matt Weaver, Design Specification Manager at Ulster Carpets, commented:
“This project demanded both technical performance and design nuance. Axminster was the natural choice for high-traffic public spaces, offering durability without compromising on colour complexity or pattern precision. Our longstanding relationship with Goddard Littlefair meant we could interpret the brief with a shared understanding of the architectural intent, ensuring the carpets not only performed operationally but played an integral role in the overall design story.”
The carpets sit in harmony with the marble flooring and natural light in the public areas, reinforcing the hotel’s sophisticated material palette. Ulster Carpets collaborated closely with the appointed General Contractor, Hagenauer of Bavaria, ensuring precision and craftsmanship at every stage.
Mandarin Oriental, Vienna stands as a showcase of thoughtful restoration and contemporary luxury, brought to life through strong partnerships and a commitment to design excellence.
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