A listed building with a new soul through impressive renovation

Complete metamorphosis of Hotel Plant

In the heart of Amsterdam, opposite Central Station, stands the monumental building of Hotel Plant. What was once a run-down hotel has been transformed into a boutique hotel with 27 rooms spread over seven floors. The 17th-century building needed a major renovation, and Studio Bower took up the challenge with both hands. In a three-year process, Keshia Groenendaal, founder of Studio Bower, managed to breathe new life into the hotel with her team, while staying true to the original charm of the property.

The Leerkotte family, owners of the hotel, had clear wishes to create as many rooms as possible in the property, without compromising the historic details of the building. According to Groenendaal, this was one of the biggest challenges. "The building had so much potential, but the state of repair was poor and the layout had to be completely overhauled," she says. "Yet we managed to preserve several authentic elements, such as the original wooden beams present in almost all the rooms."

That balance between modern comfort and historic charm is felt throughout. "Small details like old tiles and a hollow door we kept visible in the design because they tell the story of the building. We gave a special charm even to the smaller rooms under the roof. The height difference between the front and back house and the cosy layout create a real Amsterdam feel."

Design principles for consistency

Another important aspect of the renovation was to create a coherent identity for the hotel, despite the differences in room layout and size. Studio Bower established some set design principles, based on the client's brief. "The owner wanted the rooms to have a uniform look, but with subtle variations per room," Groenendaal explains. "For example, with the exception of the ridge rooms, every room has a 1.60-metre bed, with enough walking space around it and a bedside table on both sides."

Practical elements such as a minibar, storage space for clothes and a desk are also integrated into each room. On the floor, a herringbone pattern with piping and a classic bead skirting was chosen. "The rooms are designed so that when you enter, you have a clear view of the entire space. This not only creates a sense of calm and overview," Groenendaal explains. To make the most of each room, Studio Bower used custom-made furniture to match the unusual shapes and dimensions of the historic building.

Creative solutions 

An engineering feat during the renovation was to deepen the basement and return the attic to its original state. "The basement had no natural daylight, which is normally a major drawback for hotel rooms. But we applied a clever trick by putting light behind the windows in the cavity wall, making it look like daylight does come in," Groenendaal says proudly.

The attic floor has been brought back to its original state and fully utilised. "The attic rooms, which are a bit smaller due to the sloping roofs, have gained tremendous charm. They are almost empty spaces that we have nevertheless managed to make functional. It really feels like staying in a typical Amsterdam building."

Cooperation with the Leerkotte family played a crucial role in the renovation's success. "Because they have several hotels, they know exactly what they want, which is very nice," says Groenendaal. "Sometimes this was very specific. For example, the headboards of the beds had to be removable for easy cleaning."

Sustainability in a listed building

Despite the constraints of working with a historic building, some sustainable solutions were also implemented. "We installed a heat pump on the roof and added insulation to the facade," Groenendaal explains. "In a property like this, however, it is difficult to make major sustainable changes without detracting from the original architecture. However, given new developments in this area, I do not rule out future changes."

After three years, Hotel Plant is now ready to welcome guests. "I am extremely proud of the final result, especially the variation between the rooms. No two rooms are the same, which gives the hotel a special charm. Every time you stay there, you get a different experience."