Marcel’s comprehensive design for the Andaz Amsterdam Prin-
sengracht, a building that used to be the public library of Am-
sterdam, cherishes Dutch heritage in a multitude of ways. Sen-
sibilities from the Golden Age and the Discovery Age, as well as
Delftware, historical maps, navigation instruments and Amster-
dam’s creative and knowledge economy. All inform its design.
The Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht also owns a curated video
art collection, which is constantly updated.
In the atrium, the carpeted floor represents a map of the world
and the lighting installation an ancient navigation system for
travellers, with its constellation of bright stars. The wallpaper
depicts Amsterdam’s architectonic heritage and an array of sym-
bols are organised to illustrate the ascending from hell to heaven.
The lavishly proportioned signature Bell Lamps, together with
their internal royal chandeliers, welcome international guests to
this smart yet relaxed hotel.
Every guest room door number is hand painted in traditional
Dutch house style, giving the feeling of returning to your home
apartment at the end of the day. The furniture and textiles, car-
pets and wallpapers are custom designed, and every piece tells
a story. In Marcel’s own words, ‘As a designer, I always try to
design things with personality and character. I even hand paint-
ed each wash basin in my one minute style myself! They are all
unique. The Andaz is my gift to Amsterdam!’
