Review / Rosewood Amsterdam blends luxury and heritage in the heart of the Dutch capital
The historic building dates back more than 300 years, and has been restored to its former glory by the Hong Kong-based hotel group
It took almost 10 years to bring the neoclassical building back to its former glory after a painstaking restoration, made even more complex by the site’s former use as a government building. Rosewood Amsterdam finally opened its doors in May 2025.
While many of the original elements have been kept – from the hardwood floors to the grand staircases – every single nook and cranny has been restored to the tiniest detail while still maintaining the integrity of the monumental structure.
What makes Rosewood Amsterdam truly unique though is the incredible quality of works of art scattered throughout. We’re not just talking about decorative pieces meant to add some colour and a touch of whimsy. Rosewood Amsterdam is filled with bona-fide museum-worthy art – a mix of commissioned works and loans from private collections – that seamlessly blends with the centuries-old space.
While you could spend hours admiring creations by the likes of Sterling Ruby, Frank Stella, Damien Hirst and Dutch artists like Maarten Baas, the blue-chip art doesn’t overshadow the design, but rather complements the lovely surroundings. After all, this is not a museum with an intimidating “do not touch” policy – but a happening place meant to welcome demanding luxury travellers.
Amsterdam-based Studio Piet Boon was responsible for the interiors, which nod to the location’s Dutch heritage while also infusing modern elements, resulting in a chic, contemporary look.
A soothing palette of soft browns, inspired by the hues of Dutch landscape paintings, dominates the private and public areas, where touches like ceramic tiles are another nod to the Netherlands. Hints of blue, such as in the carpets in the corridors of the upper floors, evoke the city’s canals.
The 134-key property offers rooms, suites and what it calls houses, named Huis 020, Herengracht House, Library House, Prinsengracht House and Keizersgracht House. They’re each one-of-a-kind apartments in the centre of one of the world’s most charming cities. Book one and you’ll feel like you’re the owner of a fabulous pied-à-terre overlooking Amsterdam’s quaint tree-lined streets and canals.