Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is set to undergo an extensive refurbishment – led by award-winning French designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon, the design will honour the hotel’s rich Dutch heritage, while seamlessly integrating contemporary elegance with a dash of French zest…
Nestled between two historic canals in the heart of Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam has stood as a symbol of refinement for centuries, deeply embedded in rich Dutch heritage. From an original 15th-century convent to a royal guesthouse in the 16thcentury, it later became the seat of the Dutch Admiralty and subsequently Amsterdam’s City Hall. Throughout its illustrious past, The Grand has welcomed legendary historical figures, including William of Orange and Maria de Medici – both of whom are now honoured with dedicated suites that pay tribute to their legacies.
Image credit: Accor
The hotel’s transformation is being guided by the acclaimed PYR – Pierre-Yves Rochon design studio, renowned for its expertise in luxury hospitality interiors. Inspired by The Grand’s rich past, the renovation will carefully balance precise historical elements with modern sophistication, creating a timeless yet contemporary atmosphere. From the meticulously designed suites to the reimagined public spaces, the new vision will reflect PYR’s signature approach – where heritage, craftsmanship, and refined elegance converge.
“Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is a unique place where every stone carries the memory of the city. Our ambition was to preserve this heritage with the utmost delicacy while revealing a new way of living history – intimate and contemporary,” commented Pierre-Yves Rochon. ” Our approach is guided by precision, ensuring that every architectural and decorative gesture respects the site’s legacy. From preserving listed elements such as the revolving door, noble materials, and historic volumes to introducing the comfort and functionality of modern luxury, we extend the story of The Grand without ever freezing it in time.”
The upcoming renovation will elevate the guest experience, merging timeless Dutch artistry with modern luxury to create a truly residential atmosphere. From the moment guests arrive, they will step into a transformed entrance where the historic courtyard takes centre stage, offering a lush, living landscape that sets the tone for tranquillity and refinement.
Image credit: Accor
The hotel’s 175 rooms and suites, including the Legendary Suites and a newly designed Bridal Suite, will offer a balance of heritage and contemporary comfort. Inspired by Vermeer’s soft blues and yellows, the interiors will feature aged leather, fine woods, curated artworks, and typical French moldings, adding an extra layer of refined elegance. Corridors will become curated spaces, with custom carpets inspired by Amsterdam’s historic paving stones, antique Delft Blue vases, and original artworks by Dutch artists, transforming each passage into a journey through history and modern craftsmanship.
“Moving from 600 years of history to the future, The Grand continues to evolve while honouring its storied past. Today, the hotel’s suites regularly host heads of state, celebrities, artists, and ambassadors from around the world,” continued Stefan Melcherts, General Manager Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. ” Guests feel privileged to stay in these unique accommodations, which are steeped in history and infused with the memories of a distinguished past. The Imperial Suites, in particular, offer a refined experience, seamlessly integrating modern luxury with historical grandeur – ensuring that The Grand remains an unparalleled destination for the world’s most discerning travellers.”
Embracing the future with sustainability at the forefront, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is setting a new benchmark in committed hospitality. Every element, from architecture to design, reflects a commitment to green innovation without compromising the hotel’s timeless elegance: building insulation, geothermal energy produced on-site, and a new building management system supporting further energy efficiency.
The redesigned accommodations will feature eco-friendly materials, including certified woods and natural textiles, as well as energy-efficient technologies that enhance comfort while reducing environmental impact. Shared spaces will seamlessly integrate lush greenery, reinforcing the connection between nature and urban sophistication.
The hotel’s efforts have been recognized through prestigious external certifications, including the highest level of Green Key standard (Gold), the silver EarthCheck certification, the EHMA sustainability award by Diversey, and platinum status by Accor.
As part of the prestigious six hotel gems in the Sofitel Legend collection, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam continues to be a key player in the ongoing modernisation of the brand. This commitment to evolution is reflected not only in the reimagining of The Grand but also in the brand’s continued expansion, with three new signings in 2024 including Sofitel Legend The Mozart Prague in Europe, Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza in Egypt and Sofitel Legend Jaipur in India, bringing the Sofitel Legend network to nine exceptional destinations worldwide within three years.
Main image credit: Accor
