With the "Monocle Townhouse", the "Widder Hotel" expands its offering with an independent residential concept in the heart of Zurich's old town. Up to six guests can stay in the two-storey luxury townhouse with a roof terrace, complemented by services ranging from a private chef to personal shopping at Globus.
With the "Monocle Townhouse at the Widder Hotel", an independent residential concept is added to the heart of Zurich's old town. Located in a historic building on Augustinergasse, whose origins date back to the 13th century, the two-storey luxury townhouse with a spacious roof terrace can accommodate up to six guests. The minimum stay is two nights, with rates starting at 2,500 Swiss francs per night.
The building itself carries a long history. Augustinergasse was once home to a school for theologians of the Augustinian Church, where dormitories and classrooms were located close to one another. When "The Living Circle" took over the property, it was already in good condition, so only minimal renovations were carried out. The aim was to preserve the building's character while giving it a contemporary new purpose. Low ceilings, stucco details and warm materials now define the atmosphere, creating a space that feels homely and familiar.
The collaboration with "Monocle" has an obvious origin. "Monocle" is an international brand with a strong connection to Zurich and is well known among guests of "The Living Circle". Many were already familiar with "Monocle" through its editorial context, cafés or stores. The idea was to translate this world into a residential concept for the first time. Inspiration also came from a smaller sibling project: the "Monocle Townhouse" at the Gasthof Ochsen in Küsnacht.
In terms of design, the Townhouse does not follow a purely national narrative. Rather than being "swiss only", the concept is intentionally international. At the same time, numerous Swiss objects and materials appear throughout the space, complemented by finds from around the world. The interior feels curated rather than staged. Artworks, paintings and photographs come from the "Monocle" archive and have been carefully selected. Many hours were also spent searching through flea markets and antique shops to find pieces that tell a story and add depth to the house.
The interior is defined by high-quality design classics. Swiss brands such as "USM" and "Studio Seitz" play a key role. " Studio Seitz, a traditional Swiss label with a transatlantic roots, created several custom pieces, including tables for the living room and the long dining table. One special detail is an integrated drawer made of light wood. The bench in the entrance area also comes from the same studio. The concept is complemented by vintage pieces from "Studio vintage" in Uetikon am See.
From a culinary perspective, the townhouse offers maximum flexibility. The dining room is designed as a place for culinary experiences and offers space for up to ten people. Guests can choose to order room service from the "Widder Hotel", book a private chef, or organize their stay entirely as they wish. A QR code in the refrigerator allows direct shopping in the food department of the Globus. The kitchen is fully equipped and includes a dedicated corner for morning coffee. The minibar features pre-mixed drinks created by Wolfgang Mayer, the head bartender of the "Widder Bar", including the cocktail "Honey Bunny".
Ultimately, the "Monocle Townhouse" sees itself less as a traditional accommodation and more as a temporary home - a place for people who value privacy, appreciate quality and want to experience Zurich rather than simply visit it.
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