PILLOWS MAURITS AT THE PARK – MODERN EXAMPLE OF TIMELESS DUTCH ELEGANCE
words by NATALIE GAL
There is an effortless, timeless elegance about Amsterdam that captivated me the first time I set foot in this misty city. It is a combination of so many iconic cities, that one can feel as though they are in London, New York or even Paris, all at the same time when walking (or biking for that matter) these exquisite streets.
Located in the evergreen Oosterpark and housed in a historic building dating from 1908, Pillows Maurits combines these iconic styles just like the city itself. This time was a very definitive era for art and architecture, which the hotel's building itself reflects. Around this time the Amsterdam School, a growingly popular expressionist movement, was known for their revolutionary ideas of organic, sculptural brickwork, and integration of Art Nouveau and Art Deco elements such as decorative masonry, and unique window designs. This style became an emblem of Amsterdam, the distinctive beauty of brick buildings had me fall in love with the misty city first. This historic building is a shining example of this style and one of the first of its kind.
"We have added the hotel to the park; usually, it is the other way around”, says Uri Gilad of Office Winhov, the award-winning architectural firm that created the vision. More than 4,000 square meters of parkland have been restored for public use in Amsterdam, with all fences and barriers removed. Naturally, the hotel warmly welcomes not only people but also the park’s feathered little residents, offering nesting boxes, feeding stations, and a protective aviary.
Studio Linse has been responsible for the interior design, and its “noble simplicity”, as Paul Linse described. Soft materials and a warm colour palette create flawless harmony, in an intriguing contrast with the robust, industrial exteriors. As a final touch, artworks are made individually by established painter Raphaël Hermans.
Undoubtedly, the location is one of the hotel's biggest assets, Maurits The park is next to Tropenmuseum and a short walk from Artis Amsterdam Zoo. But countless other remarkable details make this hotel truly unique. With 88 luxurious rooms and suites, a fine dining restaurant, a brasserie, two bars, a private lounge, and multiple meeting spaces, it stands out as one of Amsterdam’s most compelling destinations.
The hotel draws constant inspiration from its stunning natural surroundings regarding its gastronomy as well, creating two restaurants where both locals and visitors are treated to fresh, imaginative dining experiences. At VanOost, rising star chef Floris van Straalen leads a fine dining experience through ‘worldly cuisine’, sublime dishes inspired by global flavours, all crafted in a striking open kitchen.
Spring Café Brasserie, adds contrast, where chef Luigi di Benedetto delights guests with a playful menu that artfully blends Italian and French culinary traditions. Guests can enjoy signature cocktails at Fitz’s Bar, an intimate space inspired by 1920s elegance, led by award-winning bartender and manager Nick Vrielink. Not to mention the rooftop bar with its breathtaking views and new summer drinks offers.
