Fleet Island, part of the city's historic core, occupies a strategic location between Herrengraben, Düsternstraße, Stadthausbrücke, Graskeller, Rödingsmarkt and Ludwig-Erhard-Straße, traversed by three canals: Bleichenfleet, Herrengrabenfleet, and Alsterfleet. The Alsterfleet marks the original city moat from the 13th-century fortifications. The area's distinctive pre-industrial character—defined by merchant houses and riverside warehouses—evolved during the late 19th century with the addition of early office buildings and period residences. After severe wartime destruction and decades of decay, the 1970s demolition plans were averted through private intervention. The 1990s redevelopment restored the island's urban vitality, reconnecting the Binnenalster to the harbour and bridging the old and new towns. Today, Fleet Island thrives as a dynamic mixed-use district: galleries and cultural venues share space with hospitality, healthcare, offices, and dining establishments.

Designed by GMP Architects, the Steigenberger Hotel fronts the Alsterfleet canal and opens toward the square between the heritage-listed Heiligengeistbrücke and the steps at Bleichenfleet—home to the newly redesigned "Stadthaus" restaurant and bar by JOI Design. This urban gathering space between the canals captures the energy of the city centre's heart. With 169 interior seats and 60 veranda places nestled beneath palms, the design orchestrates a fluid dialogue between indoors and out. When weather permits, sliding doors dissolve the boundary, inviting in fresh air and an easy, relaxed ambience.

Spanning 260 m², this restaurant reimagines the classic steakhouse with the rallying cry "Taste the heat!" The showstopper is the open kitchen, where flames dance across hot coals—a visceral experience that connects guests and chefs in shared anticipation. Basil, rosemary, and thyme grow visibly in the kitchen, heightening the sensory immersion at every turn. Intimate alcoves and communal tables with plush seating strike a balance between privacy and conviviality, while inviting banquettes encourage lingering conversation. The interior weaves together elegant spherical pendants, warm wood tones, and refined copper fixtures—a sophisticated blend of industrial-modern aesthetics and rustic warmth. Behind the bar, black-and-white tilework and sculptural wood cladding establish the space's distinctive identity. Open to hotel guests and the public alike, the restaurant and bar welcome all.

www.joi-design.com

Photography:

Claudia Biederbick

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 02|25)