A New Chapter For A Dutch Icon: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam Undergoes Elegant Transformation

Sofitel Legend's Grand Makeover

Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, a symbol of Dutch heritage and hospitality, is set to undergo a significant refurbishment. Spearheaded by acclaimed French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, this renovation celebrates the hotel’s rich Dutch history while preserving its recognized historical features and merging sophistication with a hint of French flair. The result will be an enhanced guest experience that aligns with the desires of today’s luxury travellers.

"Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam perfectly embodies the DNA of Sofitel Legend - an iconic historic hotel in the heart of the Dutch capital. From its legendary Wedding Chamber to its stunning stained-glass windows, every corner of this landmark takes guests on a journey through history. This transformation marks a new chapter, made possible by the trust and vision of our esteemed owners, whom I sincerely thank as we step together into a new era of excellence and timeless elegance.” — Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems.

A historic landmark reimagined: from the 15th Century to the future

Nestled between two historic canals in central Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam has epitomized elegance for centuries, deeply rooted in Dutch heritage. Originally a convent dating back to the 15th century, it evolved into a royal guesthouse in the 16th century and subsequently functioned as the headquarters for the Dutch Admiralty and as Amsterdam’s City Hall. Throughout its illustrious history, The Grand has welcomed prominent figures like William of Orange and Maria de Medici, both honored with special suites that pay tribute to their legacies.

A notable feature of Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam’s history is The Wedding Chamber, created by Chris Lebeau in 1925. Adorned with intricate stained-glass windows and furniture from the Amsterdam School, it provides a cherished and intimate setting, ensuring its status as a unique venue for weddings, private events, and cultural gatherings even now. This extraordinary room strengthens the hotel's historical connections while continuing to serve as a backdrop for important experiences.

Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, part of the Sofitel Legend collection, stands as a hallmark of hospitality, blending French flair with Dutch tradition. The highly regarded design studio PYR – Pierre-Yves Rochon is overseeing the hotel's transformation, known for its luxury hospitality interiors. Drawing inspiration from The Grand’s illustrious history, the renovation will artfully merge historical features with contemporary sophistication, resulting in a space that feels both timeless and modern. From meticulously crafted suites to reimagined communal areas, the new vision embodies PYR’s hallmark philosophy - where history, craftsmanship, and refined elegance come together.

“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. 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.” — Pierre-Yves Rochon.

A Grand welcome: revitalizing arrival and stays

The upcoming renovation at Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam will elevate the guest experience, merging timeless Dutch artistry with modern luxury to create a residential atmosphere.

Upon arrival, guests enter a reimagined entrance showcasing the historic courtyard as the focal point. This vibrant, green space establishes an atmosphere of calm and elegance. The carefully crafted courtyard highlights the rich biodiversity of the Netherlands, featuring peonies, tulips, hydrangeas, and fragrant herbs that form a dynamic relationship between nature and architecture.

Seamlessly extending this harmony indoors, the reimagined lobby and central atrium will blend the garden’s natural beauty with the elegance of The Grand’s interiors. Restored white marble floors, oak parquet in reception areas, and warm ambient lighting will enhance the sense of intimacy, while a discreet, personalized reception space ensures a refined arrival experience.

The hotel features 175 rooms and suites, including the Legendary Suites and a newly redesigned Bridal Suite, ensuring a blend of heritage and modern comfort. Drawing inspiration from Vermeer’s gentle blues and yellows, the interiors will showcase aged leather, fine woods, curated artwork, and classic French moldings, enhancing the refined elegance. Notable furnishings include the Temple Bed, a canal-view daybed alcove, and a custom drink cabinet, all celebrating the art of living.

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.

The tribute to the Art of Bouquet carries on in the Florista & Cocktail Lounge, designed as a vibrant workshop. Here, guests can relish seasonal infusions, partake in themed afternoon tea, and savor inventive cocktails, all reflecting the floral arrangements present in the hotel’s salons and guest rooms.

“Moving from 600 years of history to the future, The Grand continues to evolve while honoring its storied past. Today, the hotel’s suites regularly host heads of state, celebrities, artists, and ambassadors from around the world. 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 travelers.” — Stefan Melcherts, General Manager Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam.

Through this transformation, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam will introduce a new level of luxury, providing an unmatched combination of history, artistry, and contemporary elegance for an experience that is both memorable and extraordinary.

Sustainable luxury at The Grand: honouring heritage, embracing the future

With a focus on sustainability, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is redefining committed hospitality. Every aspect, from its architecture to design, showcases a dedication to green innovation while preserving the hotel’s classic elegance, including building insulation, on-site geothermal energy, and an updated building management system to boost energy efficiency.

The revamped accommodations will use eco-friendly materials, such as certified woods and natural textiles, alongside energy-efficient technologies that provide comfort while minimizing environmental impact. Common areas will beautifully incorporate lush greenery, emphasizing the bond between nature and urban elegance.

The hotel has garnered accolades through esteemed external certifications, achieving the highest Green Key standard (Gold), the silver EarthCheck certification, the EHMA sustainability award from Diversey, and platinum status from Accor.

Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam redefines sustainable luxury by merging heritage preservation, skilled craftsmanship, and modern environmental awareness, providing guests with an experience that respects both tradition and the planet.

As one of the esteemed six hotel gems within the Sofitel Legend collection, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam plays a vital role in the brand's modernization, seamlessly integrating the rich history of each location with a touch of French flair. This dedication to progress is evident not only in the transformation of The Grand but also in the brand's growth, highlighted by three new signings in 2024: Sofitel Legend The Mozart Prague in Europe, Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza in Egypt, and Sofitel Legend Jaipur in India. This expansion will elevate the Sofitel Legend network to nine remarkable destinations across the globe within three years. This announcement follows the substantial renovation of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, which includes restoring the historic Heritage Wing in 2024. These initiatives emphasize Sofitel Legend’s commitment to honoring its iconic legacy while looking toward the future of luxury, ensuring that every destination remains a lasting emblem of sophistication and elegance.

"We are deeply proud to embark on this transformational journey for Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. This refurbishment will not only elevate the guest experience but also maintain the historical essence that makes this hotel so unique. We are excited for both new and returning guests to enjoy the harmonious balance of history and modern luxury that will define The Grand for years to come." — Stefan Melcherts, General Manager Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam.