Formerly the capital of the Austrian Empire, Vienna is a city brimming with the remnants of the Habsburg monarchy. Immerse yourself in the world of opera balls and baroque palaces and follow our recommendations to uncover gilders, tailors, and silversmiths that retain classical Austrian craftsmanship in ateliers that were once purveyors to the imperial court.
After taking over the 19th-century tailoring atelier that used to be a supplier to the European imperial courts, Bernhard Niedersüß retains a sense of elegance and poise in his bespoke suits.
Now in its sixth generation, family business Lobmeyr makes glass vessels and restores chandeliers for clients, such as the New York Metropolitan Opera.
Address upon request, Vienna, Austria
Monday to Friday 10:00-19:00; Saturday 10:00-18:00
Wiener Silber, founded in 1882, makes tableware and flatware made of an alloy more valuable than sterling silver, specially designed for the Habsburg court.
Having inherited a 100-year-old family studio from his father, a frame restorer for Vienna’s Hofburg Imperial Palace, Georg Wilhelm Smolka created over 2,500 frames in various styles.
Barbara Oberlerchner-Nemec gilds pieces for Austrian palaces and collaborates on projects with the Imperial Furniture Collection museum that was once supervised by Empress Maria Theresa.
Friedrich Fialka, who learnt his craft from his family, continues the 100-year legacy of the Fialka business, renowned since 1923 as one of the most exclusive manufacturers of jewellery cases and etuis.
Established in 1903 and now led by the fourth generation, the Mühlbauer Hut manufacturer continues to craft high-quality hats with contemporary flair through collaborations with leading designers.
Address upon request, Vienna, Austria
Monday to Friday 10:00-18:30; Saturday 10:00-18:00
