What is the name of your accommodation? 

Pergola Residence, Haus Engadein, Spazio 46 

Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your life, such as your interests, hobbies, or background? 

Born and raised in South Tyrol, I spent about 15 years living abroad in various European capitals, as well as in London and Singapore. I worked in different industries in consultancies and in-house before returning in 2020, “back to my roots,” to run and expand our boutique hotel. I still keep one foot abroad: my partner is based in London and we have very close friends spread over Europe and Asia. I love calling South Tyrol home, yet after a while I’m often drawn to the vibrancy of big cities and the diversity of people there.

How did your property become part of your life? When did it happen, and what inspired or motivated you to take it on? 

The property was originally built by my parents and was truly pioneering at the time for two reasons: 
1) It wasn’t really a hotel, but more like serviced apartments with a strong emphasis on modern, timeless design. 
2) The architecture by Matteo Thun was far ahead of its time, featuring the very first green roofs in the area, which, by the way, also attracted quite a bit of criticism back then.
It’s a truly special place, and even 15 years after it was built, I still saw enormous potential in it, not least because there was also the opportunity to expand. 

What was the process of creating your property like? Tell us about renovating, furnishing, or styling it.

When I took over the property, the first change I made was renovating the lounge. I transformed it from a breakfast room with dining tables into a cozy living room with sofas, where guests can relax 24/7. In the afternoon we serve coffee and cake, in the evening aperitivi, and whenever we’re not around there’s an honesty bar open around the clock. The next step was bringing our mountain house on the Renon, Haus Engadein, into the portfolio. The third milestone was expanding Pergola Residence with Spazio 46, an outdoor pool, and a new spa area. With these changes, the need for a rebranding became clear. That’s why today Pergola is the umbrella brand, with Pergola Residence, Haus Engadein, and Spazio 46 as the three sub-brands. I had the chance to work on all renovations and new constructions with highly skilled creative people and craftsmen. Although the processes were sometimes long in order to reach the perfection we were aiming for, it was always worthwhile and a truly rewarding learning experience. 

What makes your property truly special to you? Do you have any favorite spots, cherished memories, or personal touches that make it dear to your heart? 

What makes Pergola Residence and Spazio 46 truly special is the location: perched on the hill with incredible panoramic views. The architecture was designed to maximize this, so you can enjoy the panorama everywhere, at any time. It gives the whole place a unique energy. The best spots are always the corners next to the windows, where you can simply relax and take in the views. Panoramic windows, wide terraces, and even the gym with a mirror that reflects the valley behind you while you’re working out all make sure the surrounding landscape is part of the experience. Haus Engadein, on the other hand, is all about the quietness of its surroundings, the mountains, the forest, and the sense of retreat it offers. Here, one of the best spots in the house is the long wooden bench by the panoramic window, where you can take in views of the forests and mountains in the background. 

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property? 

The interiors are carefully designed but never at the expense of comfort. They are cozy and welcoming, with natural materials from the surroundings: local stone, wood, and beautiful fabrics. Everything is precise and high-end, but never overdone. Decoration is kept to a minimum, so the spaces feel clear, timeless, and focused on what really matters. 

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of? 

Yes, absolutely. We are proud that most of our materials are sourced locally, which reduces transport and supports regional craftsmanship. Even the cosmetics we provide come from South Tyrol and are made with natural ingredients from local meadows. 

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests? 

Pergola Residence and the expansion Spazio 46 were always intended to be rented out, and it would be a shame not to share these special spaces. What truly motivates me is the gratitude we receive from guests who enjoy their stay with us. I am very thankful for this and for the meaningful connections you can make as a host. Haus Engadein, on the other hand, is a very private retreat. It used to be the house where my father was born and lived with his many siblings. At first, we wanted to keep it just for ourselves as a family retreat, but eventually it made sense to integrate it into the Pergola brand, since we wouldn’t use it enough otherwise. Guests really appreciate not only the setting but also the history of the house and the deep connection we have with it. 

What can guests expect when staying at your accommodation? Share the experience, the highlights, and perhaps the best compliment you’ve received from past guests. 

Guests really enjoy the freedom they have here. Unlike in a traditional hotel, there are no fixed timings for breakfast, spa visits, or other activities: you can truly holiday at your own rhythm. It feels like staying in your own holiday home, but with service available whenever needed. From cleaning and laundry to restaurant recommendations and bookings, fresh bread in the morning, an honesty shop, or bar service in the afternoon:we take care of our guests, but never too much. Service is discreet and kept in the background: we are there if you want us, but otherwise, you can simply enjoy your stay. One of the best compliments I’ve received is when guests say, “It feels like staying at someone’s house, not really a hotel.” I know this sounds cliché, but when someone truly means it, it means a lot to me because it reflects the personal touch we bring to our accommodation and the relationships we build with our guests. It’s very personal and bespoke service, and in most cases, guests also form a connection with us as hosts. 

What do you hope guests will take away from their stay, and do you have any special tips or recommendations to make their holiday unforgettable? 

Most importantly, I hope guests leave having had a great time, creating memories, and returning home feeling more relaxed, ready to get back to their daily lives. Whether it’s swimming and relaxing by the pool or enjoying outdoor activities in our surroundings, the goal is to truly recharge, that’s what holidays are for. There isn’t a single tip to make a holiday unforgettable, because everyone values different things. For me, the key is to understand each guest’s individual wishes and needs, and to do everything possible to fulfill them. Paying attention to what matters most to each guest, and ensuring those needs are met, is our job as hosts and it’s what makes our guests’ experience truly memorable.


Photo credits:  Lucie Wirthovà