A Viennese Neighbourhood's Hidden Architectural Secrets And Mysteries

The district of Hietzing is home to many of Vienna’s most famous landmarks, including the grand imperial summer palace Schonbrunn, and the world’s oldest zoo. If you want to discover an more unusual side to the area, venture beyond the well-trod tourist track into the suburbs and you’ll find some incredible architectural gems, from buildings dating back to the Red Vienna era, to an apartment building that looks as if it’s made of chocolate.

1. Haus Steiner

Museum, Building

Designed by renowned Austrian architect Adolf Loos, this curvaceous abode is a striking example of his rationalist style. Unlike many of his previous designs, the Steiner house, found on Sankt-Veit-Gasse in the suburban area of Hietzing, has a stucco façade, employed in order to provide a protective film for the bricks underneath. Loos’ other major works in Vienna include the Cafe Museum, Scheu House and the Villa Moller.

2. Landtmann's Jausen Station

Cafe, Restaurant, Austrian, Contemporary

Hidden away in the gardens of Schoenbrunn Palace, this conspicuous cafe is designed in 1950s style and is one of the lesser-known haunts in the palace’s grounds. The veranda is perfect for sitting on a summer’s evening, as the cafe looks out from a vast grassy mound and catches the last of the sun as it sets. Food served includes many Austrian classics with a contemporary twist, including the pancake-style dessert Kaiserschmarrn.