Located on the Keizersgracht in the heart of the "9 Straatjes" district, the 5-star boutique hotel is in the immediate vicinity of numerous boutiques, galleries and cafés in a location of historical significance: One of the most influential and important theatres in the Netherlands was opened here in 1638. For almost two centuries, the so-called “Schouwburg” was the cultural heart and entertainment centre of the city. After a devastating fire, the magnificent building was replaced in the 18th century by a building with classic Amsterdam canal architecture. Only the imposing stone gate is a reminder of the legendary theatre of yesteryear - and today it welcomes guests to the boutique hotel.

Opened in 1999, The Dylan features 41 uniquely curated rooms and suites, each designed in a distinct style. Those located in the “Serendipity” building were renewed in 2024 as part of an extensive renovation. Studio Linse was responsible for the redesign of these areas as well as the public spaces. “Creating something new in a historic building from the Dutch Golden Age is not something you take lightly,” says Paul Linse about the challenges of the project. “But my design team and I ended up doing what we value most: creating an atmosphere of timelessness that respects the past and welcomes the present.”

The interior design of The Dylan is characterised by a skilful interplay of historical substance and modern minimalism. In the brasserie “Occo”, for example, there are customised velvet sofas and quartzite tables with subtle textures. The leafy inner courtyard is also reflected in the lush mirrored surfaces, lending the room brightness and spaciousness. In the “Vinkeles” restaurant, a grey velvet curtain refers to the famous theatre that once stood here. The same attention to detail is also evident in the rooms and suites. The lofts in the gable of the historic building are among the most striking: With their steep staircases and sharp angles, they are typical of the architecture of their time, with the 17th century wooden beams in particular emphasising the age of the building. They are complemented by minimalist furnishings in beige and black, creating a warm, intimate ambience.

All bathrooms at The Dylan have a light, airy design in common: Visible roof beams, some with old inscriptions, white walls and light-coloured floors create an atmosphere of lightness and clarity. Depending on the room or suite, the bathrooms unfold differently – sometimes in a compact design, sometimes as an open structure that flows seamlessly into the sleeping area. Tara from Dornbracht is used in all variants, for example as a free-standing bath mixer or in combination with wooden and quartzite washbasins. The matt finish in Brushed Platinum sets subtle accents and lends the rooms an understated elegance.