Laid-back Oasis in the City
A hotel at Sendlinger Tor captivates with biophilic design and urban living spirit
Hotel Cocoon Sendlinger Tor tells a story of metamorphosis through a clear design concept. Inspired by the idea of transformation, the rooms are conceived as intimate retreats—spaces to nestle into, where guests can unwind and disconnect from the city's rhythm. Muted, earthy tones combined with wicker furniture and homey details create an atmosphere of warmth and security. In striking contrast, the hotel's vibrant public spaces come alive. The lobbies present themselves as communicative meeting points—open, inviting, and distinctly urban.
Behind the brand stands hotelier Johannes Eckelmann, who with his now six Cocoon locations across Munich, Vienna, and Salzburg (including the recently acclaimed Cocoon Theresienwiese, named Hotel Property of the Year 2025) pursues a clear vision: creating urban retreats that offer peace, inspiration, and rejuvenation. The hotel at Sendlinger Tor was the original Cocoon, reimagined by the Augsburg-based studio Dreimeta. With a refined sensitivity for materiality, the studio employs high-quality yet unconventional elements. Large-scale floral motifs, bold colors, and expressive design inject dynamic energy into the public spaces, fostering connection and exchange. In the lobby, tiered lounge areas invite relaxation: blue and green tones paired with living plants create fresh accents. Wallpapers featuring lush botanical and forest imagery reinforce the biophilic design. In the rooms, focus centers on the "nest concept": wooden surfaces radiate warmth, felt elements enhance acoustics and convey a sense of security. The color palette remains deliberately restrained and earthy. Black accents—such as matte-black door handles—create striking contrasts and underscore the design's contemporary sophistication. Dreimeta also designed an extraordinary concept for the new rooftop bar "Freischwimmer": a pool bar without water, yet brimming with summer vibes. Turquoise tiles, swimming fins, and straw bags capture holiday spirit in the heart of the city. Swings replace bar stools, a pool ladder leans against an imaginary basin, and a sign reading "Do Not Dive" playfully invites guests to let loose and unwind. The bar opens to both east and west, making it perfect for morning coffee at sunrise or evening cocktails at sunset. Lounge chairs, tiered seating, and small tables encourage lingering and networking. The in-house Pinsa Bar also embraces the interior concept: modern aesthetic, warm materials, relaxed atmosphere. Culinarily, the hotel consistently prioritizes regional sourcing and sustainability—from organic breakfast offerings to freshly baked pinsa.
Photos:
Cocoon
(Published in CUBE Munich 01|26)