DesignAgency brings vibrant generator hostel to amsterdam

DesignAgency brings vibrant generator hostel to amsterdam

the generator brand is rapidly growing into a known accommodation offering overnight guests and locals alike a new level of hostel experience. the latest location to be opened is in amsterdam’s oosterpark designed by designagency and local architects IDEA ontwerp.

three casual lounges: one lifted on a stage, another suspended from a galvanized steel frame and a third on a
mezzanine overlooking the bar
all images © nikolas koenig

set inside a former health sciences building and zoological museum, designagency and IDEA ontwerp’s strategy for generator amsterdam was to restore the original building, while breathing a fresh take into the historical brick structure. the 168-room follows the concept of combining eclectic design to create an array of spaces that encourage social interaction.

the reception area

many of the site’s original, heritage-designated spaces have been preserved and overlaid with contemporary twists. the design confidently mixes the history and charm of the building with dutch references from folk culture and iconic design, as well as custom contemporary art and the playful lighting that is synonymous with the generator brand.

the historically protected auditorium space features three casual lounges

‘generator amsterdam grew from a process of getting to know the city, meeting people and discovering its existing hotel scene and lifestyle brands. we also explored the opportunities and limitations of the amazing historic building. more so than ever, collaborations with artists and locals were essential in helping us bring our aspirations to life.’ comments designagency principal, anwar mekhayech ‘we hope that the joy and authenticity of this creative process will touch guests and locals, inspiring them to make their own amsterdam discoveries.’

the bar area of the auditorium space

in the nescio café, abstracted frames of houses provide subtle intimacy while also referencing the locale’s architectural history. the herringbone floor tiles by 41zero42, rendered in vibrant colors, reference aerial views of tulip fields. the historically protected auditorium space features three casual lounges – one lifted on a stage, another suspended from a galvanized steel frame and a third on a mezzanine overlooking the bar. the frame snakes through the space, creating a stair and catwalk that string together the sequence of experiences- furthermore, at the apex of the building, the auditorium bar features preserved raked seating adorned with reading lamps and drinks trays. the auditorium’s original curtains were retained and returned to the space.

in the building’s all-glass rooftop addition, guest rooms feature floor to ceiling windows