Hotel Engel, Langenargen

Building on Lake Constance

In the heart of Langenargen, the Hotel Engel is undergoing extensive expansion and modernisation. By the time of its planned opening in 2027, new hotel accommodation, a high-quality wellness area and modernised existing buildings will have been completed. Its location right on the shores of Lake Constance lends the project a special character whilst also placing high demands on planning and execution.
Limited space, challenging ground conditions and strict water protection requirements call for precise coordination amongst all project stakeholders. At the same time, the construction work must be carried out whilst individual areas of the buildings remain in use.

Renovation and new-build projects within existing developments

One of the project’s key focuses is the reconstruction of House 2. Parts of the historic façade will be retained up to the first floor, preserving the building’s distinctive character. The existing restaurant kitchen on the ground floor will remain in use throughout the construction phase.
The new building is being constructed on the existing foundations and above an old vaulted cellar. To preserve the existing building fabric as much as possible, a lightweight structural framework comprising steel, timber and solid construction elements has been installed. In addition, the existing foundations are being reinforced using an injection method.

Challenging specialist civil engineering works

For the new construction of House 1, a new basement was built with a connection to the existing underground car park. Due to the immediate proximity to Lake Constance and the high water table, extensive specialist civil engineering works were required.
An overlapping bored pile wall secures the excavation pit against earth and water pressure. This was supplemented by a sub-water concrete waterproofing base, which enables controlled dewatering within the excavation pit and forms the foundation for the construction of the basement.

Focus on sustainability

Under the guiding principle of ‘revitalisation rather than demolition’, large parts of the existing building stock are being preserved and upgraded to improve energy efficiency. In addition, new buildings are being constructed to the KfW 40 standard. A ventilation system with heat recovery, supply via the local district heating network and a photovoltaic system with battery storage all contribute to resource-efficient and energy-efficient building operations.
The combination of preserving existing structures, energy-efficient refurbishment and sustainable building services creates a forward-looking hotel concept that combines comfort, cost-effectiveness and environmental protection.