Nestled along the Prinsengracht canal, the Rosewood Amsterdam is a quiet triumph of elegance and design. Set within the former Palace of Justice, the building has been reimagined after a decade-long restoration, blending Dutch heritage with refined modernity.

Designed by Piet Boon, the interiors are minimalist but warm, with 134 serene rooms — many overlooking the city’s iconic canals. A curated collection of over 1,000 artworks replaces the usual hotel clichés, giving every corner a sense of purpose and calm.

For those in search of wellness or indulgence, the Asaya Spa and three dining venues (including the Advocatuur bar, a subtle nod to the building’s legal past) offer thoughtful luxury in every detail.

We were fortunate to visit with Anne-Marie Ruijs, a dear friend who used to work in this very building during her years as a public prosecutor. Seeing it through her eyes added a quiet gravity to its transformation.

Whether it’s for drinks, design inspiration, or a future stay , Rosewood Amsterdam is worth the detour.

“In our universe, flowers will always be in fashion.” – Lisette Scheers

I’ve always had a soft spot for flowers and scarves. So when Moss and Bella, brought me back a hand-embroidered scarf from Seville, I was completely taken.

It’s called a Mantón de Manila, made of silk, embroidered by hand with bold flowers, and finished with long flowing fringes. The colours are so distinctly Spanish, vibrant, fearless, full of life. Just like the flamenco music that surrounds it.

The scarf may be part of Spanish culture now, but it actually traces back to 18th-century China. It travelled to Spain via the Manila galleon trade and was later reinterpreted by Andalusian artisans into what we know today.

Mine lives on the couch now and every time I walk past it, it makes me happy.