Accor, a leading global hotel group, announces the signing of the latest ibis Styles hotel in Aalen, Baden Württemberg. Known as Rats Hotel Aalen, the hotel will undergo a major renovation as part of the rebranding and is expected to open in October 2024 under the name ibis Styles Aalen.
True to the brand’s philosophy, the house will reflect the history of its location. Based on the extraordinary life of the African resistance fighter Rudolf Duala Manga Bell, who lived in Aalen, the design concept of the 60-room hotel is created by the renowned architectural firm Xia Works and includes some African elements.
“With the successful signing of the contract, we are further expanding our portfolio in Germany and thus further strengthening the ibis Styles brand, which is very well positioned internationally in the economy segment. Incorporating the history and cultural heritage of a place into the design of the hotels is a core part of our philosophy at ibis Styles. With the ibis Styles Aalen, we are bringing a piece of African history and culture to Germany and at the same time honouring an important figure in local history,” says Thiemo Willms, Vice President Accor Development Central Europe.
“Inspiration Africa”: This is the design concept that can be traced back to the African resistance fighter Rudolf Duala Manga Bell. As the grandson of the king of the Duala people, he came to Aalen in 1891 to learn the German language and customs and to act as a mediator between the cultures. When he later defended himself against a racist and violent governor, he was sentenced to death for high treason.
In recognition of his courage and a sign of appreciation, the latest ibis Styles hotel will now commemorate him in addition to the square named after him in Aalen’s old town. The “Inspiration Africa” design concept at the ibis Styles Aalen takes guests on a journey through Africa, starting in the entrance area with reception and bar, which shine in lush green and are reminiscent of the tropical rainforest with colourful elements.
The ibis Styles Aalen will have 60 rooms and will offer on-site parking, a breakfast room, a gym and a bar. The hotel is located in the centre of Aalen – just a two-minute walk from the old town and in close proximity to a number of restaurants. A special feature of the hotel is its focus on sustainability: air conditioning heat pumps enable environmentally friendly air conditioning and heating of the house.
The central control system allows occupancy-dependent use and thus optimized energy consumption. In the coming months, the hotel roof will be equipped with a photovoltaic system to cover a large part of the energy demand with renewable energies. The rooms have sockets and switches made from recycled ocean plastic, the carpets are made from recycled real wool and the wooden furniture comes from FSC-certified, sustainable forestry. Other smart solutions such as room safes with direct electricity connection also contribute to the positive ecological balance.