A former Augustinian monastery as an urban retreat

A former Augustinian monastery is transformed into an urban retreat that embraces the sacred soul of the site while captivating with modernist touches in every little detail.

The hotel is located in Het Groen Kwartier (the Green Quarter) a traffic-free area on the site of a large 19th-century former military hospital that once belonged to the Belgian Army. Van Hool and De Scheemaecker, the owners of the hotel, immediately recognized the potential. It is a lively neighborhood with many new stores, restaurants and small cafes. It is close to the Zurenborg neighborhood with its impressive Art Nouveau and fin-de-siècle mansions.

For the reconstruction, of the property consisting of 5 buildings, the well-known Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen could be won. He is one of the leading figures in the Antwerp design scene. His style is unobtrusive, subtle and timeless. In some ways, he combines modernity with a touch of conservatism.

The former monastery houses 44 rooms and suites, ranging in size from 16 to 41 square meters. All have a double bed, a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, a laptop safe, a well-stocked minibar, wireless speakers, Egyptian percale bedding, a private bathroom with a walk-in shower (some with a freestanding bathtub), and Le Labo toiletries.

BEST ROOM

The crowning glory of Augustinian heritage. The lavish august Suite welcomes you with a personal living room, a large sleeping area and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and large bathtub. Enjoy views of the courtyard, chapel and swimming pond from your private balcony. The room is accessible via a small staircase.

RESTAURANT

The restaurant is located in the corridor surrounding the original chapel. From the beginning of the restoration, everything has been carefully planned to offer a unique dining experience in the authentic spaces of the monastery.

Expect seasonal menus that focus on the produce, the season and the terroir. A creative culinary experience curated by Nick Bril. Nick and Chef Pieter Starmans define august’s cuisine as modern brasserie fare. Enjoy a refined meal under the black steel and glass roof of the conservatory.

BAR

Enjoy elegant drinks and tasty bar food at the august Bar. The august Bar is open to everyone. Experience the beautiful garden with covered, heated terrace and the atmospheric ambience inside while relaxing in the lounge.

WELLNESS

The hotel’s own wellness area invites you to warm up in the sauna and hammam. Cool off with a fresh ice scrub, in the outdoor shower on the adjacent “Cour Anglaise” or in the outdoor swimming pond. August Wellness has a separate entrance and is also accessible to non-hotel guests.

The Neighborhood

The hotel is adjacent to PAKT, an exciting repurposed industrial site that houses a melting pot of creative businesses in renovated warehouses and has an ambitious “agriculture in the city” rooftop project.

Also nearby are the Zurenborg district, with its impressive Art Nouveau and fin-de-siècle mansions, the De Koninck brewery – a family business that has been brewing the local beer “Bolleke” since 1833 – and the main thoroughfare. Jane, a two Michelin-starred restaurant, is located in the former hospital chapel in the center of the complex.

The area is perfect for exploring by bike, on foot, or by public transportation.

This is where old world elegance meets modern design.

After careful restoration, the classic structure of the house blends seamlessly with the local architecture and complements the beauty of the surroundings.

The heart of La Valise is the oasis in the courtyard. Here, time ceases to exist. The gently swaying lemon trees, the murmur of the water and the sun’s incoming rays make space and time melt away.  A double Chichimeca staircase forms the center of the garden and frames the ancient cultural omens. The aesthetics of the architecture and the staged design elements create a serene, almost mystical athmosphere.

The rooms and suites highlight the uniqueness of Mexican craftsmanship and Aztec symbolism. Contrasted with modern design elements, an ensemble is created that combines the past and the present.

La Valise San Miguel was designed by Mexican-Italian artist Pedro Friedberg, who left his signature on the wall embossments in the hotel’s suites. The artist and designer is known for his surrealist works characterized by lines, colors and ancient symbols.

They enjoy their breakfast either in the suite, in the courtyard or another cozy niche in the hotel. Ingredients for the delicious smoothies or local pastry specialties all come from the region. La Valise doesn’t have a restaurant, but it does offer a range of appetizers, wines, and cocktails to round out your culinary stay.

Spa treatments are performed right in your suite. The experienced therapists offer a range of massages, facials and rituals for body, mind and soul.

Best Room – Master Suite

The master suite, Grande Dame, is the largest suite that acts as the ultimate pied-à-terre in San Miguel, your home away from home. It features a cozy living room and spacious bedroom with contrasting black and white mid-century design. The bathroom houses a granite tub under two domes that create a surreal mood with stars, mirrors and shimmering lights.

Once a home, always a home

Along the colonial street of La Roma in Mexico City are the most elegant townhouses in the Mexican capital. One of these houses is home to the exclusive boutique hotel La Valise Mexico City. This hidden gem with only 3 rooms, has become a real insider tip since its opening. Those who want to stay here should plan well in advance. Curated collectibles and antiques combined with Namron’s own design create a world that enchants. In the middle of the lively metropolis and yet an oasis of tranquility.

Best Room – La Terraza Suite

In the La Terrazza Suite you have the choice – do I sleep under the open sky, or rather with a roof over my head.  A king size bed slides onto the large private terrace if you wish. Under the open sky, under a cozy blanket, you can enjoy your favorite movies over the city streets. Refined luxury and selected art complete the extravagant ambience of the suite.

Culinary delights

The hotel doesn’t have an in-house restaurant, but renowned chef Elena Reygades of the Italian-Mexican restaurant Rosetta, will whip up a unique menu for guests to enjoy in their suite upon request.  Those who prefer to go out to dine are spoiled for choice in the La Rosa neighborhood. Countless gourmet restaurants are on the doorstep.

Luxury in the heart of Amsterdam

Hotel TwentySeven – an extraordinary and sensational suite boutique hotel located in the beating heart of Amsterdam’s city centre, Dam Square, which is the most famous and lively square of the Netherlands. All the 16 suites overlook the eminent royal palace, the national monument and/or the renowned Rokin street. Still, the hotel is considered a true hidden gem.

The monumental building, the Koninklijke Industrieele Groote Club, that Hotel TwentySeven is carved into is a turn of the century building from the time of the industrial revolution. While keeping intact the original framework from 1913, Hotel TwentySeven has created a modern luxurious dream within a capsule of timelessness. One feels completely in the thick of things whilst at the same time feeling completely shielded and soundproofed from the city’s hectic buzz because of the 2 sets of double glass surrounding them.

With the design concept, TwentySeven aims to present itself as a truly exclusive and extraordinary boutique hotel with unmatchable luxury. It is designed with high quality materials from all over the world for a special sensational experience. Nepalese carpets, hand-made Italian curtains, velvet from Pierre Frey and exclusive art from Cobra Art Amsterdam are examples of the used components.

Each hotel suite is equipped with a Jacuzzi with several relaxing options and a 2 headed rain shower cabin that also functions as a sauna – spa-feeling in a private setting. Since the space in all suites allows so, arranging any desired external spa treatments like massages is always possible.

High class hospitality for all senses

A timeless sanctuary of luxury in the heart of city, offering only the best of the best in every sense. The exceptionally bold design, attention to detail and level of service is unprecedented in The Netherlands. A once in a lifetime experience is the driving factor for the top of the line team, which is entirely focused on the guest’s individual needs.

The hotel houses atop of the bill restaurant, Bougainville, on the third floor led by rising star Executive Chef Tim Golsteijn. The Michelin star awarded restaurant is open for hotel guests as well as public. It offers a unique, sensory and culinary experience – and this experience starts with a beautiful setting and panoramic view of Amsterdam. The à la carte menu is a fine dining experience, where characteristic and beautiful dishes are made with only the best, fresh ingredients and served with wine hand-picked by the awarded and renowned sommelier and wine director Lendl Mijnhijmer.

For further treating of the taste buds one might pay the TwentySeven Bar a visit. Imagine a bar which takes guests on a thrilling ride along seductive, exclusively selected and created beverages, served to you by the best, knowledgeable bartenders that Amsterdam has to offer. Set foot in a warm and sophisticated, out of this world atmosphere, where Amsterdam’s best bartenders will present the most intriguing creations.

Best Room – Imperial Terrace Suite

The most exquisite suite is the “Imperial Terrace Suite”, it provides guests with 245 m2 of ultimate luxury. The suite includes 3 bedrooms (for 6 people), 3 white-marbled bathrooms (each with a Jacuzzi and steam cabin), two opulent living rooms and a wonderful terrace overlooking the famous Rokin street. Hand painted wallpaper will give a romantic garden terrace feel with special drapes made of silk by Jim Thomson. Enjoy dining on your roof terrace at any time or in any temperature, with the comfortable and special heating lamps available to give cozy warmth on a chilly night.

Red Palazzo in the “White City” of Ostunia

History paired with elegance and an eclectic antique design meets contemporary touches and global elements from Africa and India. The one of a kind hotel Paragon 700 convinces with jaw dropping interior design and exceptional service. The original Palazzo Rosso from 18th century, once the residence of the city’s mayor, are now the hallow halls of Paragon 700. Architect and Interior Designer, Pascale Lauber, tried to maintain the original details, such as the red stones, the high ceilings and frescoes. In combination with the unique selected décor and special attention to details in every corner, the Palazzo turned into a luxurious hotel.

Exclusive oasis

This quintessentially Puglian property has been restored to boast 11 individually curated rooms including 7 suites with a cosmopolitan soul. Standing in stark contrast to the whitewashed buildings of Ostuni, Paragon 700’s red brick façade cocoons a lush garden, a swimming pool and a rare green space in the heart of the city, offering a tranquil and exclusive oasis. Revel in relaxation in the 7 meters below ground spa at the Paragon 700, with a hydromassage basin, a steam bath , an emotional shower and a relaxing lounge clad in Himalayan salt walls to enhance an inclusive wellness experience.

Apulian gourmet cuisine

In the truest sense of the word, local products from local farmers, respect for the seasons as well as the variety of tastes have top priority in the Restaurant 700. You can taste that. Not without reason their Apulian gourmet style cuisine is included in the Michelin Guide. A typical Italian aperitif, a glass of local wine or a signature cocktail, created by Mixologist experts, can be enjoyed at the Lounge Bar 700. During summer and hot days in the city the Pool Bar provides instant leisure.

Best Room – Paragon Suite

One of a kind, the 55 sqm Paragon suite features 7m high cathedral ceilings, a sunken bathtub and a grand open fireplace in the bedroom. Two doors are leading to a large terrace with garden and pool view, with sun loungers for moments of relaxation. The sumptuous atmosphere and the outstanding interior design absolutely captivates you while you enjoy the absolute privacy and tranquility in your own palace room.

A royal place in Lisbon

The charming and romantic palaces will steal your heart. Be Queen or King for a day in the historic Torel Palace Lisbon boutique unit. With their luscious gardens and a stunning view over the city of Lisbon guests can experience the city of Lisbon in the way of royals.

Torel Palace Lisbon is one of the latest wonders of Lisbon’s seven hills. Consisting of two mansions built in 1902 and 1904, it combines different histories in one. The main building was a private residence, while the other was the Bishop of Lisbon’s former guesthouse. In 2019, these two buildings were joined by a modern apartment building. The outer courtyards decorated with a flower garden make the colors of the buildings stand out.

The overall renovation respected the characteristics of the architecture and kept the details of the old rooms, stairs, floors and gardens. Isabel Sá Nogueira, the designer of the Torel Palace in Lisbon, invited to give the interior areas of the unit a new set of clothes. The objective was to create spaces that were unforgettable, functional and comfortable and that create a unique and inimitable atmosphere. An atmosphere that could reflect the past while creating new memories for those who experience them. This set of historic mansions needed an appropriate theme, and with the Portuguese Kings and Queens, it was quickly found.

Rooms for Kings and Queens

The décor of the 31 rooms and apartments is a mix of past and present, creating an atmosphere full of charm and personality. The rooms remind of the comfort of home, but with an elegant atmosphere that together with simplicity of the details underlines traditional Portuguese style, united with modern and contemporary touches.

All of the Rooms at the boutique unit are designed individually. The unit wanted to create a warm and sophisticated atmosphere while mixing modern amenities with the history of Portugal. At the private gardens or from the pool, guests have a breathtaking view over the city. Honoring the royals of Portugal, the unit gave the name of the Portuguese Kings and Queens to all of the rooms. In the pink building, each room is named after Queens, the name of the Portuguese Kings were given to the rooms of the blue building and the rooms in the white building were named after houses of the monarchy.

Portuguese culinary experience

The unit has one restaurant called Terraço 23 which provides an informal open-air experience that is ideal for when the weather is fine and has a Winter Garden for an indoor experience.

Best Room – Dona Amélia

The light and spacious Royal Room “Dona Amélia“, in sapphire-blue, is a room truly fit for a royal visitor. With its large windows guests have views to the Castelo de São Jorge, on one side and to the city on the other. The room features a Queen-size bed which makes the room the perfect honeymoon suite.

A home for writers and poets

A five-star poets palace, a writers shelter, a travelers favorite story housed in a stunning historic mansion: The new five star hotel Torel Palace Porto. The hotel was opened in 2020 and is the exclusive address for travelers seeking an elegant, exclusive and unique experience in the heart of Porto with a historic touch and a modern interpretation.

A palace with a historic history

The hotel is a completely renovated townhouse from Porto. The original Palacete Campos Navarro was built in 1861 and is one of the most impressive and distinguished examples of the romantic architecture in Porto. During the renovation, the hotel tried to keep the details, features and the history of the stunning old house. The greatest highlight of the architecture is the amazing skylight called Claraboia.

Honouring iconic Portuguese writers and poets

The portraits on the ornate ceilings in the rooms on the first floor set the tone for the hotel’s concept: literature. This is how the hotel and its 24 individually designed rooms and suites, pay homage to famous Portuguese men and women of literature. All over the hotel, literature and books from famous authors can be found. From the common areas, at the rooms, to the reception and the restaurant. Especially old ones, can be found on side tables, in niches and most visibly on the library ceiling – an installation where the books appear like stars. In addition, every Room at the Torel Palace which was designed by Isabel Sá Nogueira was named after a Portugese writer or poet.

For the ones who want to relax, the Calla Wellness Suite offers guests a Menu with body and facial beauty and relaxation treatments. At the BLIND’s restaurant the culinary proposition is deeply rooted in the chef’s memories and Portuguese ingredients with a strong international connection, an expertise that values technical excellence, seasonality and the origin of the produce.

Best Room – Fernando Pessoa & Eça de Queiroz

The two Royal Suites „Fernando Pessoa“ and „Eça de Queiroz“ with their rich ornamental stucco ceilings and handcrafted doors give with almost 60 m2 enough space for the traveler who likes to enjoy the privacy and beauty of his room. The modern bathrooms placed in the middle of the room with mirrors reflecting the environment add a spectacular and unusual design touch to the experience.

Porto’s extravagant boutiquehotel

The award-winning hotel Torel Avantgarde is Porto´s sexiest five-star hotel. It’s a place for the traveler who seeks the extravagant and the extraordinary art of Portugal. The building’s origins date back to the 1940s when “creativity” in its broadest sense was the watchword. Art at the time was no longer seen merely as a complement but as the focus. The break with what came before and the championing of anti-traditional art forms and new frontiers of experimentalism inspired the artists of this generation and marked an era of artistic excellence. Inspired by this era, the Torel Avantgarde welcomes you with its museum–like experience in complete harmony with the comfort and detail characteristic of the Torel Boutiques. The aim behind the approach was not just to emphasize the country’s virtues, but also to challenge guests’ senses – they are invited to live, sense and experience art.

30s inspired interior design

Also the design of the hotel’s interiors was inspired by the Avantgarde years. It was planned by Isabel Sá Nogueira, who was responsible for designing the common areas, and by Paula Vasconcellos and Francisca Navio, from Nano Design, who styled all of the hotel’s bedrooms. All of the 49 rooms and suites of the hotel are designed individually. In addition, all of the rooms got a specific name after famous Avantgarde artists, from the field of design, literature or architecture. The design of each room reflects the personality and vision of the artists the room is named.

At Torel Avantgarde guests can find the Calla Wellness & Spa with two treatment rooms for facial and body beauty and relaxation treatments, one gym fully equipped and one Turkish bath. Tenro by Digby is the hotel’s restaurant where meat is the main protagonist at the menu. It features product from seven native Portuguese breeds and what sets Tenro apart from a steakhouse is the cuts of meat and the pieces used as well Tenro by Digby offers fresh Portuguese fish.

Best Room – Leonardo da Vinci, Coco Chanel & Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

One of the best rooms of Torel Avantgarde was named after the famous artist “Leonardo da Vinci“. The Royal Suite has around 50 m² and a spacious terrace with amazing views over the Douro where you can literally feel the spirit of Da Vinci. If one prefers fashion and music over art, the two Deluxe Suites „Coco Chanel“ and „Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart“ with their own private bathtubs would be the perfect room for a stay in Porto.

A luxury stay in the heart of Porto

The award-winning Torel 1884 palace in the heart of Porto is dedicated to explorers who seek more than just a room key. Torel 1884 offers 12 rooms and suites at the main building. Not far at the Rua das Flores, the property offers 11 more apartments for an authentic stay in the city of Porto. To make it the best stay in Porto possible guests can enjoy self-service cocktails at the honesty bar on the top floor, as well as experience the Portuguese culinary in the Bartolomeu Bistro & Wine. A very intimate and elegant space, where it’s served typical Portuguese specialties.

The history of Porto reflected by the hotel

The boutique hotel has an interesting history, as the stunning building was built in 1884. The palace’s grandeur – with its magnificent windows, spacious rooms, high ceilings, elegant staircase and fabulous crowning skylight – demanded a superlative theme. The one chosen was that of the cultural diversity of the faraway lands. The concept is inspired by the exotic discoveries which Portugal’s mariners made along the sea and trading routes they followed. Many of the materials and products found in these distant lands, including pepper, porcelain, coffee and silk, continue to be a part of the Portuguese lives and culture today.

Unique architecture

The architectural project was the work of Miguel Nogueira, a Portuguese architect. The interiors were conceived by Nano Design and features the work of the artists Jorge Curval and João Pedro Rodrigues. The remit was to enhance the architectural beauty of the building, with the theme of the cultural diversity of the voyages of discovery evident throughout. Close attention has been given to every detail, with bespoke wooden fittings, the showcasing of the traditional art of handmade tassels, and a decorative finishing which gives each room a personalized touch, while using Portuguese suppliers and artisans whenever possible.

Best Room – Solomon

For a luxury summer escape the Junior Deluxe Suite “Solomon” guarantees a special experience. With its private patio and a Jacuzzi nothing stands in the way of relaxation. Enjoy your stay at the Torel 1884 at the highest way of luxury.

A hotel for trendsetter and design lover

Sir Albert is a hotspot for stylish traveler. The hotel is a completely renovated diamond factory in the heart of Amsterdam’s De Pijp district. To keep the charm of the building they retained the high ceilings, large windows and historical details of its former days, to get a unique combination out of historical details with clean modern lines. 

The hotel was designed by the Amsterdam-Dubai design studio FG Stijil, which were awarded twice for “The best interior design in a hotel in Europe”. The hotel’s crisp, modern design doesn’t neglect comfort at every turn. Guests can make the most of their time at Sir Albert. The 89 Sir rooms offer exquisite luxury for a wonderful stay. Guests can relax in their rooms with fluffy bathrobes and cozy slippers, including a signature bedding with 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton. 

A culinary journey to Asia right in Amsterdam

The “IZAKAYA” is a culinary hot spot and authority on Asian gastronomy directly located in Amsterdam. The hotel restaurant has taken the traditional Japanese dining experience to a higher level with extravagant Japanese cuisine with a South American twist and high–quality cocktails. 

Best Room – Sir Suite

With views on the trendy De Pijp district, Sir Suite offers more space to live, work, breathe and love. Including the extraordinary bathroom, with a rain shower and a freestanding Philippe Starck bathtub. In addition, you’ll find plenty of room to relax in the comfortable bathrobes and slippers while reading up on the news in either the suite’s cozy lounge chair or exceedingly comfortable double bed.