Rosewood Amsterdam is housed in the city’s historic former Palace of Justice – a building with a layered past. Originally constructed in the 17th century as an orphanage, it underwent a dramatic transformation in the 1820s and served as Amsterdam’s criminal courts for the next 200 years. dpa joined the project a year into its decade-long renovation, a process made more complex by the building’s classification as a national monument. This status demanded a careful balance between restoration and modernisation, ensuring the integrity of the original structure was respected. Collaborating with Kentie Architecten (Lead Architect), Studio Piet Boon, and Sagrada, the team worked to transform the austere, institutional architecture into a warm and inviting Rosewood hotel.

Sagrada brought their signature “restrained opulence” to the Advocatuur bar. The space is thoughtfully divided into three distinct zones, each defined by rich colour palettes and ambient decorative lighting. At its heart lies the striking distillery—deep blue walls and gleaming copper equipment set the stage for a truly immersive experience. As night falls, subtle lighting from the distillery and table lamps creates an atmospheric setting to enjoy house-distilled Jenever in exceptional surroundings.

Owner / Developer: CTF Amsterdam B.V.
Operator: Rosewood Hotel Group
Project Manager: C&R Hospitality Services
Lead Architect:  Kentie Architecten
Architect of Record: Archer Humphryes Architects
Interior Designer: Sagrada
Photography: Courtesy of Rosewood Hotel Group © Chantal Arnts