A new chapter begins in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Canal District. The former Palace of Justice on the Prinsengracht has been transformed into a new Rosewood. Founded in Hong Kong, this high-end hospitality group also has hotels in Munich, London and Vienna. This grand Amsterdam residence pays homage to local architecture, Dutch art and heritage. It includes 134 rooms and suites, each with a unique interior overlooking canals, rooftops or landscaped courtyards. Dutch design studio Piet Boon was commissioned to design the interiors.
As a listed monument, the building retains many original details, carefully restored. The signature box-in-box concept ensures that historic walls remain untouched. The result is modest grandeur, grounded in modern minimalism. One of the most striking spaces is the Library Room, overlooking the courtyard. Generous in scale and rich in detail—with shelves of books, windows on both sides, and a subtle nod to local opulence. A courtyard brings an international atmosphere. Asaya Spa, tucked below street level, offers pure wellness. In summer: the Piet Oudolf garden, hopefully in full bloom.
Art by Sterling Ruby and Casper Braat, Rosewood Amsterdam.
Art plays a central role throughout Rosewood Amsterdam. More than 1,000 works are displayed across corridors, rooms and shared spaces. Curated by Mette Samkalden (Kunstmest) and Jochem Leegstra, the collection bridges eras and disciplines, connecting established names and emerging voices. Highlights include ByBorre’s textile reinterpretation of Rembrandt’s Night Watch, a digital commission in collaboration with Nxt Museum, and a kinetic clock by Maarten Baas.
Alongside these, some personal favourites stand out. Anton Corbijn’s portrait of Johnny Lydon, formerly known as Johnny Rotten, on an Amsterdam canal. A monumental painting by Sterling Ruby from Rosewood’s private collection. And Casper Braat’s playful art vending machine. Soon, a custom app will offer context on each artist and their work—an easy way to explore and revisit the collection.
Johnny Lydon, photography Anton Corbijn and the living room of Rosewood junior suite.
And when the sun is out, the courtyard is the perfect spot for both guests and locals. A pause for coffee, a spontaneous meeting, or a cocktail to mark the beginning of the weekend.
Images by the author and Rosewood. Courtesy of Rosewood and the listed artists.
Discover: rosewoodhotels.com/en/amsterdam
