History and construction
Construction of the IFA Fehmarn Hotel & Ferien-Centrum began in the mid-1960s and was completed in the 1970s. It is a striking example of the architecture of the time. Located on the southern beach of the Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn, the hotel offers impressive views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. The building was designed by the renowned architect Arne Jacobsen and reflects the style and trends of the 1970s, particularly the angular, functional style of early modernism and the use of concrete as a main material.
Architecture and design
The IFA Fehmarn Hotel & Ferien-Centrum is characterised by its striking structure, with clean lines, geometric shapes and a robust construction.
The Fernblickhäuser offer guests generous balconies with a sea view, making the hotel a popular choice for holidaymakers looking to enjoy the Baltic Sea.
The interiors are generously and functionally designed, with a clear focus on comfort and practicality. The use of concrete and glass gives the rooms a timeless aesthetic that authentically reflects the style of the 1970s.
Monument protection
In recent years, the IFA Fehmarn Hotel & Ferien-Centrum has been recognised as a listed building due to its architectural significance and state of preservation. The protection of historical monuments ensures that the original architectural features of the building are preserved and that the hotel is maintained in its historical integrity.
Maintaining the hotel requires careful restoration and maintenance measures to protect the building fabric and preserve the charm of the original design. This includes the restoration of concrete surfaces, the maintenance of glass elements and the modernisation of infrastructure in line with the requirements of the preservation order.
Future prospects
With its rich history and architectural significance, the hotel remains a valuable cultural heritage site. Efforts to preserve it and adapt it to modern standards ensure that it will continue to be an attractive travel destination for future generations. The integration of sustainable technologies and an awareness of the preservation of historical monuments are essential aspects for the future development of the hotel.
Copyright Gabriele Staarman
Architect Arne Jacobsen
Biography and work
Arne Jacobsen (1902-1971) was a Danish architect and designer, considered one of the most important representatives of modernism. Born in Copenhagen, he trained at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. Jacobsen's work was characterised by a clear, functional aesthetic and a preference for elegant, minimalist forms.
Among his most famous architectural works are the City Hall in Aarhus, the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen and the Bellevue Theatre. Jacobsen was also a talented designer, creating iconic pieces of furniture such as the ‘Egg Chair’ and the ‘Swan Chair’. His approach to design was holistic, often designing both the building and the interior furnishings to create a harmonious whole.
Philosophy and influence
Jacobsen's philosophy was based on the principle that form should follow function. He placed a high value on the functionality of his designs and strove to combine aesthetic beauty with practical usability. His style was strongly influenced by international modernism, particularly by Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe.
Arne Jacobsen has had a lasting influence on 20th-century architecture and design. His work is still recognised and appreciated worldwide today. They are considered masterpieces of Scandinavian design, known for its simplicity, functionality and elegance.
