Cees Dam of Dam & Partners is referencing the past while embracing modernity and eco sensibility in his refurbishment of Hotel De L’Europe in Amsterdam. “The essence of something from the past is that it has something to offer,” Dam says. “To me, a good tradition is something flexible, something that you keep reshaping to adapt again and again.”
Occupying the landmark Rondeel Building erected in 1895-96, the hotel maintains its Renaissance-style façade that incorporated elements of the city’s architectural style into the original design. Dam assembled four palettes for the 10 diverse guestroom and suite styles: black with gray and cream accents; cream with blue, green, and red accents; red with green and gold accents; and blue with white accents. Reddish-orange adorns the walls of common areas, while touches of gold, green, and brown complement the dark wood trim and molding.
Next door, Dam transformed the historical Theodoor Gilissen Bank into the new Dutch Masters Wing, an all-suite annex of 23 uniquely appointed spacious loft-like accommodations, each with a different yet exacting replica Renaissance-era paintings. Reminiscent of a glass-topped greenhouse, the wing’s atrium streams sunlight over its three high-ceiling floors. Passageways to each room are clearly defined, and hallways are decorated with oversized floral arrangements and comfortable furniture. The feeling of lightness carries into the impeccable details of the suites, exemplified by the bold and vintage colors of the paintings.
New fine-dining outlet Bord’Eau is adorned with gold-kissed walls and white leather furniture. Across the hall, Dam selected red fabrics, dark wood, and marble trim for Hoofdstad Brasserie open. Meanwhile, the new cigar lounge envelops guests with dark wood-paneled walls and deep green overstuffed leather chairs, evoking a gentleman’s club from the turn of the 20th century.
