Headline: Transforming Lighthouses into Luxury: Tim Wittenbecher’s Floatel Journey
Diving into Hospitality Innovation: Tim Wittenbecher’s Vision
In a world where unique travel experiences are increasingly sought after, former engineer Tim Wittenbecher is pioneering a novel concept. As the founder of Floatel, a Berlin-based hospitality group, Wittenbecher is breathing new life into lighthouses by transforming them into boutique hotels. With several successful openings across Europe, including locations in the Canary Islands, Hamburg, Ischia, and Cudillero in Asturias, Wittenbecher is redefining coastal retreats. In an exclusive interview with Monocle, he shares insights into his eclectic tastes, ardent love for Berlin, and ambitious future projects for Floatel.
A Weekend in Berlin: Tim’s Retreat
Wittenbecher’s weekends are typically spent in his garden in Charlottenburg, a charming district in Berlin. “Whenever possible, I like to be in Berlin on a Sunday,” he says, highlighting the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Whether he’s enjoying a peaceful morning or discussing storms with lighthouse keepers at one of his hotels, Wittenbecher values his time at home.
Culinary Adventures: From Breakfast to Lunch
When it comes to breakfast, Wittenbecher enjoys Eggs Florentine, showcasing his culinary skills despite modest self-assessment. He also experiments with more complex recipes like paella and Dover sole. For lunch, Wittenbecher and his wife, Heike, opt to explore one of Berlin’s lively neighborhoods. This weekend, they plan to stroll through Neukölln and visit the open-air theatre at Tempelhofer Feld, immersing themselves in the city’s offerings.
The Soundtrack of a Sunday
When asked about his Sunday soundtrack, Wittenbecher cites an eclectic mix that resonates with various generations: “Electro, 1970s disco, 1980s rock, and classic piano concerts.” This diverse musical preference reflects the innovative theme of Floatel—melding different eras and cultures to create a unique hospitality experience.
Community Engagement: The Heart of Floatel
As Wittenbecher explores the local art scenes in towns like Ischia, he emphasizes the importance of community in his projects. “Ischia has a super-cool art scene,” he notes, praising the talents of returning locals who enrich their hometowns with international expertise. This focus on local culture not only supports the community but also enhances the appeal of his hotels, offering guests immersive experiences.
The Road Ahead: Ambitious Projects on the Horizon
One of Wittenbecher’s upcoming projects, Faro Spignon in the Venetian Lagoon, exemplifies the daring spirit of Floatel. “Of all the almost-impossible projects we have done, this one is the Champions League,” he states, underscoring both the challenges and the excitement that come with it. Here, he envisions a hotel that harmonizes with its stunning natural surroundings while reinterpreting the traditional lighthouse experience.
Staying Informed: Balancing Work and Leisure
Despite his busy schedule, Wittenbecher ensures he stays abreast of current affairs by listening to the Sunday Tagesspiegel and Zeit podcasts in the morning. This balance of work and leisure is crucial for entrepreneurs aiming for sustained success.
Winterfeldplatz’s Culinary Delights
When it comes to dining, Wittenbecher relishes the local culinary scene. His choice for a Sunday lunch is a falafel plate from the renowned Habibi restaurant at Winterfeldplatz. This culinary experience reflects his appreciation for diverse flavors, which also inspires the offerings at Floatel’s various venues.
Emphasizing Importance of Relationships
An unfortunate topic crept into the conversation as Wittenbecher shared about the recent loss of his beloved weimaraner, Lou. She was a cherished companion for 16 years, a reminder of the importance of bonds that shape our lives.
Engaging with the Future of Floatel
As Wittenbecher prepares to delve deeper into the Faro Spignon project, he acknowledges the support from friends and colleagues who provide crucial feedback and insight. “Today I’ll be talking to a friend who will tell me what he thinks about the next steps for our project,” he shares, emphasizing collaboration as a cornerstone of his venture.
The Impact of Floatel on the Hospitality Industry
With Floatel’s unique approach to hotel design and location, Wittenbecher aims to raise the bar in the hospitality sector. By prioritizing local culture and sustainability, he is setting a trend that could influence other hospitality projects around the world.
Join the Conversation
As Floatel continues to grow, Wittenbecher invites feedback and thoughts from guests and the traveling community alike. What unique experiences do you seek when visiting coastal destinations? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
For more insights into innovative hospitality concepts, explore our article on Sustainable Tourism Trends.
Tim Wittenbecher’s Floatel represents a remarkable blend of engineering, art, and culture, promising to enchant guests while preserving the rich stories of lighthouses. As the hospitality landscape evolves, he remains not just a witness but an active contributor to its reinvention.
