The Dutch capital is proving to be one of Europe’s coolest cities when it comes to hotel innovations. In the past year it has welcomed sci-fi capsule concept City Hub, uber-trendy the Hoxton, and hybrid “smart lofts” from Zoku. Now “poshtel” (or posh hostel) brand Generator has arrived.
Opened last month (March 16), the Generator Amsterdam has taken up residence in the East Amsterdam district near Oosterpark, occupying a converted science block in the former University of Amsterdam.
The only one of its kind in the city, the upmarket hostel has retained some of the building’s original features such as the lecture hall (now a bar and hang-out space) and library (for meetings) but modernised the interiors with pop art colours and playful communal areas.
Up to 564 guests can choose from a €15-per-night bed in a four-bunk dorm, a quad room with four bunks for €60 a night, Twins from €65 and Doubles for €85. Beds are all clean and comfortable, made up with fresh white sheets, duvets and pillows.
Unlike most hostels that are functional, bland and low-spec, this design-led property also sports a luxury six-person Sky Suite Apartment for €100 a night, an all-day cafe, an outdoor terrace, glass lifts, and the Auditorium chill-out lounge, which sees a “professor’s desk” repurposed as a bar with gas taps and chemical beakers. Coming soon will be an underground speakeasy in the old boiler room.
Josh Wyatt from Patrol Capital, the founding company of Generator, said, “Our central ethos for Generator Amsterdam is about embracing the mystery surrounding the multiple layers of the building and its historical nature.
“Around every corner, there are new sights and experiences for guests to explore. With the building originally used and designed as a school dedicated to the study of the natural sciences, Generator will carry this classic, nature based theme forward in its design and use of the spaces.” 
There will also be an events programme including beer tastings, coffee masterclasses and movie screenings, as well as Vanmoof bikes for hire. Standard amenities include a 24-hour reception, free wifi throughout, a travel shop, laundry facilities and luggage strorage.
Fredrik Korallus, CEO of Generator, said: “The hostel and shared accommodation sector is one of the most exciting areas in the hospitality industry today. As one of Fast Company’s ‘Most Innovative Companies of 2016’, Generator continues to lead the charge to redefine it.
“We have a proven concept, powerful brand, stellar team and a wide foothold in key European destinations. Generator’s one-of-a-kind concept will now be connecting the global traveller with unique communities.”
Generator poshtels will also be opening in Stockholm and Rome this summer, bringing the group’s portfolio to over 8,600 beds. Other properties are located in Dublin, London, Copenhagen, Berlin, Hamburg, Venice, Barcelona and Paris.
All images by Nikolas Koenig.