The Dutch certainly are a design-savvy bunch, and Amsterdam is no exception. One of the world’s most culturally dense cities, it’s constantly in flux with new restaurants, bars, concept stores and of course, hotels appearing – each one outdoing the last. Many of its 17th century canal houses are now home to chic, modern hotels, with forward-thinking, often unconventional interiors – making Amsterdam a dream destination for design-lovers. Read on to discover Rosa Brennan’s top recommendations.
Located in the artistic De Pjip region, a favourite hangout of creatives, students and bohemian spirits since the 60s, Sir Albert is a sophisticated boutique hotel with high ceilings, large windows, chic pastel furnishings and 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton bedding (need we say more?).
Located in the artistic De Pjip region, a favourite hangout of creatives, students and bohemian spirits since the 60s, Sir Albert is a sophisticated boutique hotel with high ceilings, large windows, chic pastel furnishings and 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton bedding (need we say more?).
Geared towards travellers with an eye for design, this unconventional hotel features just 23 suites inspired by individual, site-specific artworks and installations. The best part? Each of its quirky rooms are accessible by seemingly unmarked, individually designed doors (such as secret bookcases à la Harry Potter).
Overlooking the Keizersgracht canal, the Dylan is a stylish, five-star hotel situated a short stroll from the Rijksmuseum. Besides its strikingly modern design, the Dylan also offers the refined Michelin-starred restaurant Vinkeles, specialising in upscale modern French cuisine.
A hotel, spa, communal workspace, atelier, club and restaurant rolled into tone, Volkshotel is very much a part of Amsterdam’s cultural sector. The hotel is build inside the former residence of the Volkskrant newspaper, and offers a number of individually designed suites.
Perhaps Amsterdam’s most unique offering, Hotel Droog is a one-bedroom hotel that is owned and operated by the famous Dutch design initiative of the same name. Located on the top floor of a 17th century building, the room is a brightly lit space with a minimalist, largely white aesthetic, offering a stunning view over the city’s rooftops.
An extremely modern design hotel located in the heart of Amsterdam’s historic canal belt, The Albus offering warm, comfortable suites filled with contemporary furnishings, artworks and designer bathrooms. Be sure to check out the master work of chef Lars Bertelsen at Senses Restaurant.
Formerly the residence of celebrated 19th-century Dutch artist, George Breitner, this two-suite boutique hotel features many lavish elements that hark back to the fin de siècle. A perfect spot for honeymooners or a romantic getaway, their champagne breakfast is reportedly the best in town.
Boasting Amsterdam’s largest indoor food court, Hotel De Hallen is located just near Kinkerstraat, one of Amsterdam’s most popular streets for bars and restaurants. Set inside a former tram depot, this unique lodging offers sophisticated, industrial-chic furnishings, an in-house French restaurant and an arthouse cinema.
Set in a tiny 17th century canal house with just six individually decorated rooms, this refreshingly anti-minimalist hotel features quirky African and Asian inspired décor by Dutch designer Thijs Bakker.
A favourite hangout of novelists, publishers and poets, the Ambassade is spread across 10 canal houses, and is filled to the brim with original art and antiques. After a day darting between the canals, recline at their modern French brasserie, or have a night-cap in their stunning library bar with more than 4,000 books signed by their authors.
Occupying two 17th century buildings, once home to the flamboyant lives of Dutch trade merchants, this romantic hotel is located in the central Keizersgracht district. Most rooms offer sweeping views of the canal, and are kitted out with luxurious décor, including plush velvet fabrics and chandeliers.
Perched on the Singel, Amsterdam’s oldest major canal, Hotel Esherea has an richly coloured, eccentric interior, including crystal chandeliers, luxurious fabrics and the expressive prints. Run by the same family for more than 75 years, the historic 17th century premises are honoured in UNESCO’s world heritage listing.
