Although it hasn't even opened yet, the Netherlands' first W hotel, the W Amsterdam, already is expanding, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announced last week.
Scheduled to open in fall 2015 behind the Royal Palace on Amsterdam's Dam Square, the new hotel originally was to have 172 guest rooms in a single building. Revised plans, however, call for 238 guest rooms in two buildings thanks to the acquisition of an adjacent structure: a former bank that will house an additional 66 guest rooms and suites, not to mention a spa, nightclub, and destination bar and restaurant.
"We have been overwhelmed by the interest and demand for W Amsterdam since we announced the project back in February and are thrilled to expand this hotel," said Michael Wale, president, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa, and Middle East. "The W brand clearly resonates with the Dutch market, and we can't wait to bring the W mix of contemporary luxury to the city when we launch the hotel in autumn next year."
In addition to the bar and restaurant that will be located in the bank building, W Amsterdam will feature a rooftop bar and restaurant in its main building. Other amenities will include approximately 1,500 square feet of meeting space, including two "Great Rooms" and two smaller meeting rooms, as well as a fitness center and a business center.
"Now split across two unique buildings in the very heart of the city, W Amsterdam will be a focal point for trendsetters to explore Amsterdam's take on what's new and next in fashion, design, music, and entertainment," said Bram van der Hoek, managing director and owner representative of the Europe Hotels | Private Collection, the hotel's management company. "The hotel's cutting-edge design combined with W's innovative lifestyle programming will bring something completely different to the Amsterdam hotel scene."
For a recap of last week's top stories, check out MeetingNews Minute: