Projects -

Conservatorium Hotel

The Rijkspost savings bank building is located in Amsterdam next to the Museum Square. Built in the second half of the nineteenth century, the building has had many different users of which the last was the Conservatory of Amsterdam. The conservatory made major changes the original interior, yet nonetheless the structure is a listed building.
After having carried out various studies into new uses for the building, commissioned by project designer Fortress, the result was this design: a top-class luxury hotel for the Israeli Alrov group.
The project was carried out in close collaboration with Van Stigt Architecten, who were responsible for the restoration. The old part of the building holds the 130 hotel rooms; the interior is restored to its former glory. The old entrance on the Van Baerlestraat is retained, but now acts as the connection between the shops, cafés and restaurants on the main upper storey. The courtyard is transformed into a covered atrium with the new hotel entrance and restaurant. The new glass volume in the atrium gives space to several conference rooms. Underneath the atrium the basement provides space for a spa and health club as well as underground parking. The detailing of the new construction's design is oriented towards achieving a clear contrast between old and new. In this way both are shown to their best advantage.