Header: Courtesy of Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel
When Xavio Design was hired to reimagine the lighting of Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel Lobby Bar & Lounge, the company explored several locally inspired themes. Starting with the massive trees that decorate the centre of Amsterdam, these topics included Floating Florals, Finding the Light, Biophilic Dreams, and Amber is the New Red Light.
Elms and the Red Light District
By mimicking natural lines, the lights connect the hotel to the cityscape. Timber ceilings with LED strips in public areas resemble floating leaves. Conceived and embedded light sources align with the structural materials and joinery to blend in with the architecture. The design reimagines Amber as the new red light, but with an elegant twist. The colour palette balances texture, shadows, and contrast, adding class to the design.
Two types of wall sconces, one in ribbed leather and the other in etched glass, explore translucency. LEDs hidden behind porous steel add liveliness to the design. Custom-made lamps inspired by floral patterns and decorative pieces infuse artistic storytelling, rooted in the well-known 75,000 elm trees you can find around Amsterdam. The light was focused to add true value following the principles of the post-pandemic value engineering. Key areas were embellished with statement lighting pieces, following the idea that placement, not quantity, will result in impact and meaningfulness.
Minimising energy consumption and maximising lifespan
Locally sourced, repurposed, and upcycled fittings were used throughout. But this represents only one element of a far more comprehensive, sustainable approach. Low-energy technology, including LEDs and dimmable, zoned control systems, also contributes to operational efficiency and reduces environmental impact without compromising the design intent. The lighting scheme breaks the boundaries of design by using lively site-specific interventions, instead of a more common grid-based layout. The interplay of light, space, and materials enhances local memory and heritage while uncovering the beauty of the city’s imperfect forms. The overlaid installation expands toward the skylight, giving the design a poetic and factual beauty. Finally, the Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel lighting showcases how pensive, environmentally conscious, and emotionally resonant design can uplift a hospitality venue even with a tight budget.
Designed through collaboration
Xavio Design is a London-based company known for its highly organised and detailed approach. Apart from lighting services, they also work as consultants to contractors and other consultants. With offices in Paris, New York, and Singapore, the company has completed numerous residential, hospitality, retail, and other projects both in the UK and abroad. Its extensive portfolio includes Ellicot park, London Metropole Hotel, and Mayfair Club.
Xavio Design was in charge of the architectural lighting for the entire scope of the hotel, including façade and public areas, but also the atrium, lobbies, corridors, guestrooms, and the historical 17th-century Koepelkerk wedding venue. The studio collaborated with Bowler James Brindley, Stylt Interior Design, and Linthorst Techniek on the design. C&R Hospitality Services (CHRS) took responsibility for the practical implementation of the interior design. Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel Lobby Bar & Lounge lighting design was awarded an Honourable Mention at the LIT Lighting Design Awards 2025.
