Newly restored Pulitzer Amsterdam set to launch in February, 2016

Exceptional craftsmanship has been demonstrated to enhance the 400 year-old canal houses set in the heart of the Amsterdam UNESCO World Heritage canal district. The buildings’ modern influences have been stripped back to reveal their hidden beauty and provide the canvas for the new design concept, which combines historical elements with contemporary style. From trade merchants to flamboyant Dutch aristocrats, past inhabitants of the canal houses have inspired the rich character of the hotel to bring through the traditional essence of the Dutch capital.

Leading the intensive project is Creative Director, Jacu Strauss. Formerly a senior designer at Tom Dixon’s Design Research Studio, Strauss has led projects including Barbecoa for Jamie Oliver, McCann Erickson’s head office in New York and Mondrian London at Sea Containers. Strauss commented; “There is a real understated sophistication about Amsterdam and I have loved immersing myself in the city to influence my visions for the hotel. Pulitzer Amsterdam is the ideal place to start exploring the Dutch capital, each canal house has its own story to tell and I am proud to be instrumental in bringing these to life.”

In a phased restoration, February will see the unveiling of the authentic new look across areas including Pulitzer’s Bar, new restaurant Jansz., meeting and event spaces, and 80 guestrooms on the Keizersgracht canal side of the hotel. The rooms and suites will present original elements such as beams and fireplaces, accompanied by an eclectic mix of rare pieces of vintage furniture and modern items from renowned Dutch designers, brass detailing, and headboards reflecting the gables of each canal house. After a day’s exploring in the capital, each guest can enjoy the use of Le Labo amenities, a bike repair set, individual climate control, free wifi and LCD flat panel television.

Also to be revealed are four exceptional themed suites with private entrances, influenced by the narrative of elaborate characters who may have lived in the buildings throughout the years. The Antique Collector’s suite will showcase antique furniture and objects collected locally and globally, with a large crystal bead chandelier and a wall of vintage and modern mirrors including a centrepiece from Anouk Beerents. The Book Collector’s suite embodies the most fantastic adventures that are just a page away; the only thing better than a good book is a room full of them. A vintage oak writers’ desk overlooking the canal is offset by a patchwork Persian rug by Piet Hein Eek.

Other themed suites include the Music Collector’s suite featuring a wall of trumpets, a vintage record player and a vast collection of framed records; along with the Art Collector’s suite adorned with art collected by Pulitzer Amsterdam over the years including a spectacular nine-metre 21st-century version of ‘The Last Supper’ painting.

The second phase of the restoration will begin in February and culminate in Autumn 2016 when the second wing will open to guests on the Prinsengracht canal side, marking the Grand Opening. Once complete, the hotel will feature 225 guestrooms and suites with a lead-in rate of £235.

Alexander van Gastel, General Manager of Pulitzer Amsterdam, commented: “Our future lies in our past, we want to stay true to our roots and celebrate the history and heritage of the canal houses – the hotel’s maze of secrets and surprises are what makes Pulitzer Amsterdam unique. We are excited to reveal the new look to loyal guests and to welcome new visitors to join us on our journey.”