Sir Albert Hotel
"Occupying an 1895 red-brick factory in Amsterdam’s stylish and formerly working-class De Pijp neighborhood, this member of Marriott’s Design Hotels continues to sparkle like the diamonds it once produced. Unlike many post-industrial revamps, there’s very little sign of the original factory here—and that’s a good thing. Interior designers Alon Baranowitz and Irene Kronenberg have upped the warmth factor with a palette that skews toward tobacco browns and burnt siennas, with textures like leather and cowhide and statement pieces from Dutch furniture-design superstars like Piet Hein Eek and Joy van Erven. Depending on the category you choose, your room might come with a freestanding Philippe Starck bathtub, a customizable pillow menu, signature robe and slippers, or even a “goody box” with locally sourced treats. Outside, muralist Adele Renault has covered the canalside wall of the building with a multi-story gray heron, a feathered Amsterdam resident who is showing up in increasing numbers in these waterways and can now often be found strolling through the nearby Albert Cuyp Market." - Nicholas DeRenzo
