Lighting that combines atmosphere and function

Peace, rhythm and routing in revamped coffee lounge Van der Valk Akersloot

Van der Valk Akersloot's coffee lounge, a central spot in the hotel, has undergone a complete metamorphosis. dEP de Sfeerontwerpers, together with Horeca Sfeermakers, integrated lighting design, home automation and mood architecture into the new interior. The result is an inviting space with refined materials, subtle lighting and smart technology, tailored to the dynamics of the hotel.

The renovation is part of a wider renewal within the hotel. "Sanne and Steve Van der Valk wanted to bring the coffee lounge in line with the revamped interior of the hotel," explains Maurits Leeflang, owner of Horeca Sfeermakers. "They asked us for a design that suited this busy corner of the hotel: a place where guests come in, have a cup of coffee or meet." The lounge is directly adjacent to the reception area, which was previously renovated with light materials and an open feel. "They wanted to continue that atmosphere."

The design team took the existing travertine counter as a starting point and echoed this natural stone in the coffee lounge. Combined with walnut and understated upholstery, a warm and luxurious setting was created. "We deliberately chose a setting without table linen, with natural materials that exude quality, but also provide tranquillity," Leeflang explains. "It's a place where you can sit comfortably at any time of the day."

Lighting as silent director

Lighting plays an important role in interior design. "We are often involved early in the process, and then connect to the design with mood boards and technical plans. In this case, we came to the table a little later, but the good cooperation allowed us to move quickly. We extended the existing plans with a new lighting plan, which also included the ceiling. This has been completely renewed."

The lighting is fully integrated into the interior, with indirect accents in cabinets and ceiling rounds. "That indirect lighting really adds to the atmosphere. It gives the room a subtle glow and makes the interior sparkle without being obtrusive," says Leeflang. A lot of attention has also been paid to ease of use on a technical level: all lighting is automated and tuned via home automation. "Robert Burgstad, designer at dEP de Sfeerontwerpers, coordinates the light intensity, control and mood settings with the client. So that the staff don't have to worry about it."

Cooperation and flexibility

For Van der Valk, the cooperation with dEP was essential for the final result. "They came up with good, substantive input and were able to switch quickly," says Sanne van der Valk. "We ended up with dEP via Horeca Sfeermakers and would definitely engage them again."

Her personal favourite? "The curves in the ceiling with LED accents. These give the room a soft, atmospheric feel. The fact that it is so easy to operate is also greatly appreciated by our staff. "With this renovation, Van der Valk Akersloot proves that even a coffee lounge, often seen as a side room, can become an atmospheric and strategically important part of the hospitality experience. Thanks to the combination of high-quality materials, thoughtful lighting design and smart technology, the lounge is ready for the future and for every moment of the day.