Design Architecture Remodelled Energy-Efficient "Boutique Hostel" Lets You Save Money, in Comfort By Kimberley Mok Writer McGill University Cornell University Kimberley Mok is a former architect who covered architecture and the arts for Treehugger starting in 2007. our editorial process Twitter Twitter Kimberley Mok Updated October 11, 2018 via. LAVA Share Twitter Pinterest Email Design Tiny Homes Architecture Interior Design Green Design Urban Design LAVA/via Travelling on a budget, especially for younger individuals, has traditionally translated to holing up in dingy hostels with pretty nasty bathrooms. Thankfully, boutique hostels -- which lie somewhere between a regular hostel and a B&B; on the comfort scale -- are gaining traction in difficult economic times as budget-conscious but comfort-seeking travellers now expect to save money, while still enjoying the feeling and services of a boutique hotel. Previously featured for their "re-skinning" proposal for Zerofootprint and this "insane home of the future," German architecture firm LAVA (Laboratory for Visionary Architecture) obviously had this paradox in mind in their recent eco-remodelling of the Berchtesgaden Youth Hostel, located two hours outside of Munich. Using local materials and craftsmanship, the hostel's existing structure was redone with a low-energy facade, floor heating and the installation of a biomass pellet heating system. LAVA/via The emphasis was on creating distinctive spaces through reorganization. Different types of bedrooms with built-in furniture and integrated storage were established along with multipurpose spaces, to create zones that stimulate activity, group interaction and to foster a feeling of community. LAVA/via Integrated window-boxes cantilever from the facade, allowing for flexible use of space -- whether it's for seating, eating or chatting -- offering a visual panorama to the outside. LAVA/via The old wooden ceiling of the first-floor restaurant can now be seen from the new rooms, while an unused attic was transformed into an open mezzanine equipped with extra beds. via. LAVA LAVA/via Surprisingly, the redesign also targets families, a demographic that usually feels out of place amidst the boisterous atmosphere typically found in hostels. But there's an emerging trend toward boutique hostels which feature the services of a luxury hotel, but allow for flexibility of spaces, diverse clientele and creative design in a unique location. Here in Berchtesgaden, by reducing energy use and the careful selection of regional materials in contrast with bright colours and natural lighting, the hostel typology is re-imagined as something more authentic, existing in harmony with its surroundings. LAVA/via