Out-of-the-box thinking can be daunting, especially if you encounter antiquated structures, red tape, and last but not least people that are less flexible than you are. That’s exactly what happened to Charlie McGregor – the managing director of the fast-expanding hospitality chain “The Student Hotel” – when he set out to find the perfect location for a new property in Amsterdam. McGregor came across a colossal office building in a rather bland but otherwise well-connected stretch of suburbia. Mind you, the gloomy economic outlook in the Netherlands has created an abundance of empty office space across town, but thanks to McGregor’s perseverance and vision this chunk of real estate has been given a new purpose with a cool identity that matches its savvy target audience.
Similar to its other properties, The Student Hotel’s newest addition in the Dutch capital offers all-inclusive, affordable accommodation that’s geared towards a specific demographic of students, interns, researchers and their friends and family. The new property features no less than 707 guestrooms and suites spread over three multi-storey buildings, and has been designed and branded by Amsterdam-based creative agency …STAAT.
The rooms are basic but well-appointed and you’re free to personalize and decorate anyway you want it. Obviously, it features all modern amenities such as free wifi access, a flatscreen tv and a private bathroom. some rooms also have a kitchen unit while others boast a well-equipped communal kitchen and dining space.
And speaking of social interaction, the ground floor features an expansive multi-purpose lobby with a pool table, games room and library, but it’s equally perfect for studying or to chill out and watch tv together. Another funky facility is the kitchen, a canteen by day and restaurant by night which serves healthy and tasty bites, and a ditto dinner.
The optional meal plan has you properly fed like your mom would. additional bonuses are the laundry room in the basement, a proper gym with an instructor at hand, and last but certainly not least a slick Van Moof bike if you stay longer than one month.
The arrival of The Student Hotel has not only created a buzz but also added a new appeal to the sleepy suburb where it’s located. It’ll be interesting to see what will spawn from its presence in the near future. location: jan van galenstraat 335. ( 5elected from www.superfuture.com ) For more information, follow the links below.