Renaissance Amsterdam Renovation

The renovated hotel (except the heritage church) will operate entirely on electricity which is being supplied from renewable sources including our own solar panels. To further reduce our carbon footprint, we are installing air source heat pumps as well as a system that uses geothermal energy, tapping into the natural heat of the earth to provide heating and cooling. To reduce the amount of energy we require in the first place, we are investing in improved insulation, more efficient equipment, and smart guestroom controls. Furthermore, the new atrium which now encloses the courtyard significantly improves the energy performance of the building.

One of the most striking new features is the new vertical gardens on the façade, which improves air quality by absorbing roadside pollution and providing habitat for local wildlife.

When complete, the renovation will also have a green roof and a community allotment to improve the health and wellbeing of our neighbours.

The hotel courtyard has been transformed with a new timber tower. The above ground tower structure is built using cross-laminated timber, a renewable resource, instead of conventional steel and concrete.

This material reduces embodied carbon on average by 40% reduction in versus conventional building methods. Natural shapes fill visitors with a sense of wellbeing whilst they enjoy the lobby bar called Specht (Dutch for woodpecker) under the tower.

Responsible procurement was a big focus for this project, incorporating the use of local or recycled materials where possible to both support local employment and reduce our carbon footprint.

All suppliers provided sustainability credentials such as environmental certifications and product declarations and our contractors made use of a distribution hub, which helped to consolidate journeys, reduce traffic and harmful emissions in the city center.

In parallel with the renovation, we have implemented more sustainable operational practices. This includes chemical free cleaning, further reduction of single use plastic and a focus on sustainable food procurement.

Post renovation, Archer are targeting BREEAM In-Use Excellent rating, a globally recognised, third-party assessed certification for sustainable buildings in operation. In 2024, the hotel achieved its Green Key certification, demonstrating how it meets the Global Council of Sustainable Tourism standards.