Located only a few minutes away from Dam Square, Amsterdam's INK Hotel is a stunning example of finding a compromise between accommodations that reflect local life as well as the desires of the modern traveler. The design-focused space is a space that formerly housed the head office for a large newspaper and an attached print shop, a history that is reflected in the hotel's decor, with typography being one of the main themes.
The INK Hotel also references the history of the building with the concept of its restaurant, The PRESSROOM. Largely, the INK Hotel aimed to embody the history of a place where stories were both written and printed. Like many Amsterdam lodgings, the hotel restaurant and bar have been designed to appeal to both guests and locals.
Contextual Urban Hotels
Amsterdam's INK Hotel is Situated Within a Historic Building
Trend Themes
1. Contextual Hotel Design - Hotels are incorporating local history and culture into their designs, creating unique spaces for guests that reflect their surroundings.
2. Typography-themed Decor - Hotels are using typography as a design element to pay homage to the history of their buildings and create a cohesive aesthetic throughout the space.
3. Hotel Restaurants as Local Attractions - Hotels are designing their restaurants and bars to attract not only guests, but also locals, by incorporating local cuisine and culture into their menus and atmosphere.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality Industry - Hotels can create a unique guest experience by incorporating elements of local history and culture into their designs, and by curating on-site experiences that appeal to both guests and locals.
2. Design Industry - Design firms can specialize in creating contextual hotel spaces that pay homage to local history and culture, while also incorporating modern amenities and guest preferences.
3. Restaurant Industry - Restaurants can design menus and atmospheres that incorporate local cuisine and culture, attracting both hotel guests and locals to dine and relax in their spaces.