Vision and Philosophy
The Sonnenhaus is a place of inspiration, creativity and exchange – a counterpoint to the traditional hotel industry. Guests experience the here and now, whilst the values we embody foster a tangible connection to the region. The Sonnenhaus enriches future generations, promotes artistic and regional development, and provides a space for new ideas.
What matters to us
Our day-to-day decisions are based on a strong connection to the Styrian Volcanic Region, a deep desire for a forward-looking approach, and the firm conviction that open dialogue within the community is the best breeding ground for positive development.
Through our collaboration on a European project, we have been able to develop exciting plans for our own future, despite the small scale of our operations. We have successfully tackled our first major challenges with the successful application for the Austrian Ecolabel and the EU Ecolabel.
What we do to achieve this
Building envelope
- Extensive insulation of the roof and floor, solid brick walls (50 cm) from the existing structure
- Use of a south-facing design that makes sense from a bioclimatic perspective
- Natural shade provided by wild vines
Heat supply
- District heating network for the holiday home, residential building and office, fuelled by wood chips from our own forest
- Solar thermal system for hot water production and temperature regulation in the outdoor pool
- Support from Ohmpilot
Lighting
- Use of LED lighting as well as motion detectors
Eco-friendly materials
- Furnishings featuring solid wood furniture from regional joinery workshops and antiques
- Wood and stone tiled floors
- Clay plaster with wax beads as a natural climate control system in some of the holiday flats
Energy management
- Regular analysis of our energy consumption
- Photovoltaic system to generate electricity for the electric vehicle charging point and washing machines
- Laundry is dried in the fresh air all year round
Mobility
- Charging facilities for electric bikes and cars
- Bikes for rent free of charge
Water management
- Drinking water from our own well
- Rainwater harvesting system for toilet flushing, washing machine and garden watering
Purchasing & procurement
- Cleaning products are biodegradable and eco-friendly
- Soaps in our holiday flats and double rooms are packaging-free and biodegradable
