Baur au Lac: A Legacy by the Lake captures the history and spirit of a legendary hotel shaped by seven generations of family stewardship and cultural influence at the heart of Zurich. Since opening its doors in 1844, Baur au Lac has stood as one of Europe’s most distinguished luxury hotels, renowned as a place of heritage, culture, art, and refined hospitality.What began as the inspired vision of Johannes Baur remains, more than 180 years later, the hotel’s modus operandi, as it is still owned and operated by his descendants, the Kracht family. Maintaining a highly personalized and luxurious service, the hotel is home to the popular Baur’s Brasserie and Bar and the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant Marguita, as well as the iconic “Art in the Park,” an outdoor exhibition in the hotel’s park that features sculptures from renowned and emerging artists, highlighting the hotel’s deep ties to art and culture.Located in the heart of Zurich’s historic center, nestled away in its own leafy park, and wrapped in spectacular views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Zurich, the hotel has long had a history of hosting famous figures. From Empress Elisabeth of Austria (“Sisi”) to Elton John, Sophia Loren, Audrey Hepburn, and other prominent figures, Baur au Lac has always served as a haven of luxury and discretion.Baur au Lac: A Legacy by the Lake captures the remarkable story of the hotel through images of its past and present, alongside the guests, employees, and the Kracht family who embody its heart and soul.
A WORD FROM THE FOUNDERSWe created this company to be the first luxury brand on culture. We wanted to supply everything for a contemporary library; we started working with top perfumers for scented candles, with Goyard for a book trunk, with Chanel on a quilted leather slipcase, and so on. Now we are expanding the Assouline lifestyle brand in stores in the most important cities of the world. We love and believe in books more than everything else, but we also want to extend our vision to create all that can be expected in a chic and personalized library, from beautiful books and special editions to luxury gift items, unique library accessories, and now a complete turnkey collection of stylish furniture. Our digital world goes faster than ever and nothing remains of it, but books are the solid part of our past and present. They also are beauty. For us, books are a matter of intellect and emotion, of heritage and innovation. Because information is not only about today, and the past is a sensational source of inspiration.-Prosper & Martine AssoulineTHE BRANDFounded in Paris in 1994 by Prosper and Martine Assouline, Assouline is the first luxury brand on culture. It began with the desire to create a new, contemporary style of book, using the couple's experienced eye for visually rich stories and compelling narratives.Guided by their passion for knowledge, culture and travel, the Assoulines have since expanded their vision to 1,700 titles in three main collections, along with special editions and unique library accessories—a grand oeuvre of inspiring creations. Throughout the last quarter of a century, the brand has established a network of international boutiques in prominent locations across the globe. Assouline has also inaugurated a curated library service, working closely with clients to visualize, design, and develop bespoke, one-of-a-kind libraries.With a distinguished team of creative talents—which includes the founders' son Alexandre—the brand continues to reinvent the notion of true luxury. Assouline’s roster of collaborators includes some of the world’s most respected brands, artists, photographers, writers and designers.Assouline continues to exude an unparalleled signature style and elegant savoir faire, which has globally redefined modern publishing.