Christmas magic with a delicate touch

This year, the Platzl Hotel collaborated with Munich-based illustrator Nadja König on its Christmas card. Her delicate style, attention to detail and passion for paper and colour transform the card into a miniature work of art that tells stories and evokes emotions. In this interview, Ms König reveals what inspires her, how the card came about and the little surprises hidden inside.

Mrs König, what inspired you to become an illustrator, and what do you particularly enjoy about working with paper and colours?

I have always been surrounded by aesthetics, fashion, and beautiful things. Throughout my training as a seamstress and my fashion design studies, drawing was always with me. At some point, I realised that I could create my own world with pen and paper — purely, with little technique, simply in the moment. I love how a fine line or a spontaneous brushstroke can bring something to life. Paper has an incredible honesty to it for me—it shows every stroke, every emotion.

How would you describe your style, and what mood do you want to convey with your illustrations? 

My style is elegant and feminine with a focus on detail, and I like to add a touch of lightness and humour. I want to convey emotion and capture small moments. During the Christmas season in particular, I want to convey warmth and joy, and capture that special mood between nostalgia and anticipation.

So, how did this year's Christmas card for the Platzl Hotel come about?

It began with my desire to capture the connection between the various areas of the hotel in an appealing way. I usually start with quick sketches on paper, working intuitively. Then I refine the lines, work out the details and colour them in digitally or with watercolours. At first glance, the card shows a festively decorated Christmas tree, but if you look more closely, you will discover the world of the Platzl Hotels in all its glory.

What makes the card special to you, and are there any hidden details that guests should look out for?

The small pendants on the tree represent the various locations of the Platzl ensemble, ranging from the Ayinger Wirtshaus to the Josefa. Delicate patterns and icons come together to create a playful yet harmonious whole. It was important to me to showcase the buildings' identity in an understated yet charming way. Take a closer look and you will discover lovely details that are typical of the Platzl Hotels, such as a pattern reminiscent of the interior or a tiny star that catches the light.

What role does Munich play in your work, and what was it like working with the Platzl Hotel?

Munich is my adopted home and it inspires me time and time again. I love the blend of tradition and modernity, a combination that is also reflected in my illustrations. The Platzl Hotels embody this Munich spirit: they are charming, authentic and full of heart. The collaboration was incredibly warm and inspiring. It's wonderful when design and hospitality complement each other so well.

How do you approach sustainability in your work?

I pay close attention to quality and durability. I often use paper from sustainable sources and work in a resource-efficient manner. To me, sustainability also means creating valuable things — illustrations that you won't just look at once and then throw away, but keep and maybe even collect.

Nadja König's loving handwriting and eye for the extraordinary have come together to create a Christmas card that reflects all facets of the Platzl Hotel and charmingly captures the festive spirit. We would like to express our gratitude for this inspiring collaboration and the wonderful result.