Opening marks entry of Hyatt brand into the Netherlands and
introduces Andaz brand in continental Europe
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 29, 2012--
Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Andaz
Amsterdam Prinsengracht, the first Hyatt hotel in the Netherlands
and the ninth addition to the Andaz brand. Currently represented in
world-class cities such as London, New York and Shanghai, Andaz is
making its mark in the cultural heart of vibrant Amsterdam, signifying
the first step in the expansion of the brand into continental Europe.
The Lounge at Andaz Amsterdam showcases an impressive video art collection, the largest of its kind in any hotel around the world (Photo: Business Wire)
“We are pleased to introduce the Andaz brand to a city that is
synonymous with style and character, two elements that are core to the
Andaz ethos,” said
Peter Norman
, Senior Vice President – Acquisitions
and Development for Hyatt International – Europe, Africa, Middle East.
“The opening of Andaz Amsterdam marks a significant growth milestone not
only for Andaz but for Hyatt overall as the first Hyatt hotel in the
Netherlands. As we celebrate this expansion into Europe, we look forward
to the future growth of the brand in the next several years with
developments in other new markets, including Maui, Hawaii; Delhi and
Jaipur, India; and Costa Rica, among others.”
Welcome to Andaz
Reflecting its energetic and distinctive surroundings, Andaz Amsterdam
Prinsengracht is devoted to providing highly personalized, uncomplicated
service in an atmosphere that authentically embraces the best of
Amsterdam. Andaz’s signature service includes a hassle-free check-in
process; an Andaz Host uses a computerized tablet to check guests into
their rooms while offering them a complimentary glass of wine in the
Andaz Lounge. Guests will also enjoy complimentary Internet access,
local phone calls, non-alcoholic beverages, and locally sourced snacks
in the minibar, including the Dutch brands “Just Nuts” and “Lovechock”
chocolate.
More than a Hotel
Set on the Prinsengracht (the site of the former Public Library), a part
of the iconic ring of canals that was added to the UNESCO World Heritage
List in 2010, Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht is centrally located in the
bustling heart of the city. Surrounded by the creative scene and dynamic
spirit of the Jordaan district, as well as the adjacent “Nine Streets,”
the hotel is located in a charming neighborhood filled with Amsterdam’s
main art galleries, unique specialty shops, trendy fashion boutiques,
and stylish restaurants, all of which nourish the city’s free-spirited,
rich and diverse cultural character.
“I am truly honored to be standing behind Andaz as we welcome the brand
to Amsterdam, a unique city that truly reflects what the brand is all
about,” said Toni Hinterstoisser, general manager of Andaz Amsterdam
Prinsengracht. “The Andaz DNA seamlessly aligns with the rich cultural
character of Amsterdam – it is vibrant, yet relaxed and reflects the
contagious spirit of the neighborhood. We are proud to be part of such
an exciting new addition to the city and look forward to opening our
doors to culturally-savvy travelers from around the world.”
Based on the premise that the hotel should beat with the same heart as
the city, the unique flavors of Amsterdam are embedded in the property’s
adventurous design concept brought to life through the vision of local
and legendary interior and product designer,
Marcel Wanders
. Reflecting
a modern view of Dutch history and local culture, guests can delve into
a piece of Amsterdam wherever they turn, whether it is through the
artistic wallpaper in the guestrooms, the books on the shelves, or the
innovative food and beverage offerings at Bluespoon, Andaz Amsterdam
Prinsengracht’s specialty restaurant.
Throughout the hotel, Wanders played with various sources of
inspiration, integrating the heritage of the hotel surroundings
(including the Golden Age, Dutch Delft blue, tulips and the color
orange), the knowledge of the books once housed at the former Public
Library, and connecting polarities. The latter refers to the city of
Amsterdam as a cultural “melting pot,” representing two individual,
non-related elements that are stitched together to form a new logical
whole.
Part of the hotel’s overall design concept incorporates a unique video
art collection that represents a diversion from “regular” art. The 40
unique works from various emerging and established local and
international video artists, such as
Ryan Gander
,
Erwin Olaf
and
Mark
Titchner
, make Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht the hotel with the largest
video art collection in the world. Depending on the work’s level of
intensity and outspokenness, selections from the video art collection
are showcased in different areas of the hotel — in the public areas of
the ground floor, in the hallways throughout the various floors, or
through a special video channel available on the televisions in the
guestrooms. The largest display screen for the presentation of video
footage is located in the Lounge and is comprised of nine 60-inch
televisions.
Stay Experience
Guests will experience personal style, comfort and sophistication in one
of the hotel’s 117 guestrooms or one of its five suites. Due to the
unique 1970s-style structure of the monumental former Public Library,
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht offers a total of 15 different room types.
With room sizes ranging from 24 to 36 square meters (258 to 387 square
feet) and suites measuring between 55 and 141 square meters (592 to
1,517 square feet), the hotel is home to some of the largest guestrooms
in compact Amsterdam. This is reinforced by the open plan layout of the
rooms that allows for maximum space and natural light. Even the
bathrooms feature an open structure (with closed shower and toilet) and
include a multi-functional vanity centerpiece made from 150 kilograms
(330 lbs.) of concrete.
In line with the overall design concept of the hotel, the artistic and
stylishly designed rooms reflect a view of Dutch history and feature
small custom details to create an inspiring environment. Striking
elements include the hand-painted washbasin in Marcel Wanders’ signature
“One Minute Delft Blue” style, the oversized book-shaped work desk, and
unique wallpaper that is visible in both the room and on the walls of
the washroom. The specially designed, comfortable reading chair, a
full-length mirror, and a walk-in closet complete the rooms.
Depending on the location of the room, guests will enjoy impeccable
views, either of the imaginative observatory, the creatively-landscaped
garden, or the iconic Prinsengracht, a UNESCO protected canal.
Local “Flavor”
The social heart and soul of Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht is located on
the ground floor of the hotel, where the restaurant, bar, lounge and
library are seamlessly intertwined. Each space is distinct on its own,
but together, they create a vibrant, exciting, and open space that is
unique in its design concept.
Facing the hotel’s landscaped garden, including the Chef’s own herb
garden, Bluespoon Restaurant showcases an inventive western seaboard
cuisine, serving seasonal farm-to-table food. Actively involving
farmers, producers and artisanal purveyors, only the very best
ingredients are used, which are sourced from an area that covers the
Netherlands’ north through to the northern coastal beaches of France.
Chef
Julien Piguet
and his team bring together an authentic and local
taste, leaving the food in its most basic state and extracting its true
flavors in a simple and refreshing manner. Guests can indulge in their
passion for the local cuisine, while also experiencing the team of
talented chefs at work in the modern, open kitchen as they use
traditional and innovative cooking methods, such as curing and smoking.
For the best view and bespoke dining experience, guests can sit in the
heart of the open kitchen at the Chef’s Table and enjoy dinner in
typical family style by sharing a series of small casserole dishes. In
addition, the signature restaurant offers a semi-private dining area and
comfortable booth seating that offers a view of the Lounge and
Observatorium.
In the style of a typical Amsterdam café, the Bluespoon Bar exudes an
intimate and “speakeasy” atmosphere surrounded by elegance. The bar is a
perfect place for guests to sample distinctive Dutch beverages and bar
food, or to take a seat at the large communal bar table where the action
and entertainment is brought tableside through professional bartenders
who serve hand-crafted cocktails from three different eras —
pre-Prohibition, Prohibition, and post-Prohibition — carrying illusory
names, such as “One Minute Delft Blue” and “Lucky Librarian.”
Amenities and Services
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht offers the Studio, a dynamic meeting space
that is unique to Andaz hotels. The three different Studio spaces at
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht encompass all of the characteristics
necessary to engage and energize guests in a home-like ambiance. With
more than 400 square meters (4,305 square feet) of flexible space,
everything from a boardroom meeting to a large cocktail reception can be
accommodated.
The hotel also features a fully equipped, 24-hour gym and signature
urban spa. The locally inspired spa experience is designed to enhance
the health and lifestyle of guests with high-impact, results-oriented
treatments that are crafted specifically for each individual. Plus, the
spa’s treatment products have pure, natural fragrances that reflect an
original and organic feel.
For more information and reservations at Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht,
please visit amsterdam.prinsengracht.andaz.com
and visit the hotel on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/AndazAmsterdam.
For employment opportunities at Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht and at
other Hyatt hotels around the world, visit http://hyatt.jobs.
About Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht is opening its doors on the site of the
former Public Library on the Prinsengracht – the “Prince’s Canal.”
Marvelously located in the cultural heart of Amsterdam, the hotel is
surrounded by the creative scene and dynamic character of the lively
Jordaan district and adjacent “Nine
Streets.” The new 122-room (including five suites) hotel is within
close walking distance of the city’s major attractions, as well as prime
retail and business districts. Reflecting its energetic and distinctive
surroundings, Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht is devoted to providing
highly-personalized, uncomplicated service in an atmosphere that
authentically embraces the best of Amsterdam. Notable features are the
in-house restaurant and bar, Bluespoon, 400 square meters (4,305 square
feet) of meeting space, a signature spa with sauna, steam and treatment
rooms, and a fully-equipped, 24-hour gym. Every space is uniquely
designed by Dutch architect and renowned designer,
Marcel Wanders
,
reflecting a modern and adventurous view of Dutch history and local
culture. Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht is offering a series of local
cultural events through the Andaz Salon, kicking off with the Amsterdam
Art Weekend in December. The hotel is dedicated to creating a stage and
motivating creative minds to come together, share their passions, work
and play. For more information, visit amsterdam.prinsengracht.andaz.com,
or call +31 20 523 1234.
About Andaz
Global in scale while local in perspective, Andaz delivers an innovative
hospitality experience and attentive, uncomplicated service designed to
accommodate guests’ personal preferences. Hotels in this collection
reflect the unique cultural scenes and spirit of the surrounding
neighborhood and are dedicated to creating natural and vibrant living
spaces where travelers can indulge their own personal sense of comfort
and style. Nine Andaz hotels are currently open: United States — Andaz 5th
Avenue and Andaz Wall Street in New York, Andaz San Diego, Andaz West
Hollywood, Andaz Napa in California and Andaz Savannah; Europe — Andaz
Liverpool Street in London and Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht; China —
Andaz Shanghai.
Andaz has created the Andaz Salon, a series of local cultural events
with up-and-coming leaders and partners in areas such as music, fashion,
food, and film. Andaz Salon provides a way for like-minded individuals
to share their passions, become inspired, and connect with cultural
insiders who share their world, their interests, and knowledge of their
industry. The Andaz Salon allows guests and locals to learn something
new, spark personal creativity, explore their own talents, and fuel
their passion for life.
From art exhibits, to wine and cheese immersions, to local music
performances by emerging artists, to runway shows, Andaz Salons
stimulate creativity and help local talent come alive. For a list of
past and future Andaz Salon events, please visit andazsalon.com.
For more information, please visit andaz.com.
About Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading
global hospitality company with a proud heritage of making guests feel
more than welcome. Thousands of members of the Hyatt family strive to
make a difference in the lives of the guests they encounter every day by
providing authentic hospitality. The Company's subsidiaries manage,
franchise, own and develop hotels and resorts under the Hyatt®,
Park Hyatt®, Andaz®, Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt Place® and
Hyatt House
TM.
Hyatt House
is changing its brand identity from Hyatt Summerfield Suites®.
Hyatt Residential Group, Inc., a Hyatt Hotels Corporation
subsidiary, develops, operates, markets or licenses Hyatt
ResidencesTM and Hyatt Residence
ClubTM. As of June 30, 2012, the
Company's worldwide portfolio consisted of 492 properties in 45
countries. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Forward-Looking Statements in this press release, which are not
historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of
the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements
include statements about our plans, strategies, occupancy and ADR
trends, market share, the number of properties we expect to open in the
future, our expected adjusted SG&A expense, capital expenditures,
depreciation and amortization expense, interest expense and effective
tax rate, estimates, financial performance, prospects or future events
and involve known and unknown risks that are difficult to predict. As a
result, our actual results, performance or achievements may differ
materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking
statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements
by the use of words such as “may,” “could,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,”
“seek,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,”
“continue,” “likely,” “will,” “would” and variations of these terms and
similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar
expressions. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon
estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us and
our management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause actual
results to differ materially from current expectations include, among
others, general economic uncertainty in key global markets, the rate and
pace of economic recovery following economic downturns; levels of
spending in business and leisure segments as well as consumer
confidence; declines in occupancy and average daily rate; our ability to
successfully execute and implement our organizational realignment and
the costs associated with such organizational realignment; our ability
to successfully execute and implement our common stock repurchase
program; loss of key personnel, including as a result of our
organizational realignment; hostilities, including future terrorist
attacks, or fear of hostilities that affect travel; travel-related
accidents; changes in the tastes and preferences of our customers;
relationships with associates and labor unions and changes in labor law;
the financial condition of, and our relationships with, third-party
property owners, franchisees and hospitality venture partners; if our
third-party owners, franchisees or development partners are unable to
access the capital necessary to fund current operations or implement our
plans for growth; risk associated with potential acquisitions and
dispositions and the introduction of new brand concepts; changes in the
competitive environment in our industry and the markets where we
operate; outcomes of legal proceedings; changes in federal, state, local
or foreign tax law; foreign exchange rate fluctuations or currency
restructurings; general volatility of the capital markets; our ability
to access the capital markets; and other risks discussed in the
Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission,
including our Annual Report on Form 10-K, which filings are available
from the SEC. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any
forward-looking statements, which are made as of the date of this press
release. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any of these
forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, new information or
future events, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors
affecting forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by
applicable laws. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no
inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with
respect to those or other forward-looking statements.
Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50456823&lang=en
Source: Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Andaz
Jamie Rothfeld, +1 312-780-6070
jamie.rothfeld@hyatt.com
or
Andaz
Amsterdam Prinsengracht
Eveline van Gaalen, +31 20 523 1234
eveline.vangaalen@andaz.com