The hotly anticipated W Amsterdam has finally arrived. As if to reflect the Dutch capital’s quirky vibe, the hotel straddles two prominent downtown structures – right behind the Royal Palace, in a former telephone exchange atop a supermarket, and in an adjacent building previously occupied by a bank – and infusing both with W Hotels‘ signature design-led Splendour. Featuring 238 guestrooms and suites, including three WOW suites, and for those into total self-pampering, two extreme wow suites. At 183 sqm. [1,970 sq.ft.] these are the biggest pads in the house, each lavishly decorated, featuring a large circular bed, an open-plan bathroom with tub, a walk-in closet, and last but not least, sweeping views of the ornate royal abode.

Mind you, 66 rooms are situated in the canalside Bank building and these will be available as of early next year. The interiors of the five-star W Amsterdam are a collab effort of Amsterdam-based practice Office Winhov and Baranowitz + Kronenberg Architecture from Tel Aviv, in addition to a platoon of local designers that were enlisted for this massive project. The ground floor of W Amsterdam’s main building may oddly be occupied by a supermarket, this highly peculiar circumstance has resulted in a revolutionary architectural feat: a rooftop lobby, or rather, a rooftop w lounge in the hotel chain’s discerning jargon.

A lofty, airy space with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and four outdoor terraces, we agree it’s a rather exceptional place for check-ins, obviously, but allows chilling out and mingling in equal measure. Giving relaxation a playful twist is the so-called wet deck, downtown Amsterdam’s first rooftop swimming pool. Also situated here on the sixth floor is Mr Porter, a dining concept which blends the culinary delights of a steakhouse with a sleek lounge setting. Oh, and this place comes with a deejay to further spice up the modern dining experience. Across the street, in the other building, another dining venue has been welcoming guests since the summer season.

Called the Duchess, it’s a place infused with old world grandeur that’s pretty rare in town. an all-day dining spot, it presents a menu that’s inspired by the sophisticated flavours of southern France and Italy. Complementing W Amsterdam’s stellar facilities are the upcoming fit, a state-of-the-art gym, and away spa. Also opening in the very near future is X Bank, a hybrid gallery and retail spread over 700 sqm. [7,535 sq.ft.] and which aims to showcase the very best of local creativity. And because the Dutch capital isn’t all about play, the property also comes with a large event space. Aptly dubbed great room, it comes with all the tech you require, and can be split up into three smaller units.

Design: Office Winhov // Baranowitz + Kronenberg Architecture

via Superfuture