Hoteliers: Claus Sendlinger

Claus Sendlinger is a perpetual transformer who understands the catalysing effect of trends in the travel and design markets on other industries and society as a whole. He is a German native and global nomad who has created a culturally sophisticated network of artists, architects, designers, hoteliers, journalists, and like-minded travellers who share his vision and philosophy.

Claus is a frequent speaker, panelist, and jury member on topics related to travel and design. He has been honoured for his outstanding contributions to the industry at the European Hotel Design Awards and received the Special Award from German hospitality publications, AHGZ. In 2018, Condé Nast Traveller listed Claus among the 48 top influencers worldwide who are changing the way people travel.

Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Design Hotels, ere’s a short story about Claus Sendlinger, compiled from various sources.

Early Life
Claus Sendlinger was born in Augsburg, Germany, in 1963. In his 20s, he worked in the PR department of the German Air Force, traveled the world, and did PR for the nightlife scene. He bought a travel agency at age 23 and led it to success. He then took nightlife and travel to a new level by organising unusual company events, such as raves in ski areas, and providing brands with parties that were always differentiated by design. The opening of one of the first Design Hotels in Paramount connected him even more with the design scene, and in 1987, he (with friends Hans Peter Knodler and Oliver Jamitzky) launched a…