Studio Modijefsky gives shape to Hotel Rumour, a social hub hosted in an historic building in Leiden, taking care of everything, from architectural details and furniture to brand identity. 

As the oldest structure in Leiden, dating back to 1060, the Burcht van Leiden castle is one of the most evocative places in the city. Just down the hill is a carriage house that itself dates back to 1657.

Studio Modijefsky has brought this humble building into the 21st century as Hotel Rumour: a vibrant social hub that can host everything from lively dinners to intimate drinks, private gatherings and dance nights – anything, in fact, apart from a sleepover.

Despite the vitrine in the hallway that sells giftshop staples like bathrobes and keychains, this isn’t really a hotel. It’s all part of an elaborate personality created by Studio Modijefsky, who worked on everything from the name and brand identity to the merchandise and postcards.

The studio’s design concept draws inspiration from the rich history of this iconic landmark, seamlessly integrating and enriching original elements including high ceilings, grand arches and wooden beams. Bespoke furniture and lights exhibit a painstaking attention to detail, as do the carefully curated materials and upholstery fabrics.

A surprise awaits around every corner and on every visit: whether it’s a different painting that catches the eye, an alluring daybed for enjoying a cocktail in a tucked away room, a mysterious objet trouvé or the decoration on the floor.

Terrace

The first thing guests see when descending from the Burcht van Leiden is a large terrace, whose boundaries are marked by two wooden corner benches with a custom round bench encircling the tree between them. A brasserie ambiance is exuded by the collection of tables and chairs, while a large communal table hosts larger groups.

Playful tan-coloured parasols, pigeon blue metal furniture, bespoke wooden seating elements and captivating graphics set the tone for the experience awaiting inside.

Ground floor

The downstairs space at Hotel Rumour can be whatever you desire: a place for a meal, a drink or a dance at the end of the night. It’s filled with an attractive array of art, seating options and custom lights that offer something to suit every mood.

Upstairs

Hotel Rumour’s top floor is primarily used as a lounge cocktail bar, but part of it can be partitioned off for private gatherings. A panelled and ornately decorated hall leads the way, via a blue tiled arch and a graphically finished staircase.

Facts & Credits
Title Hotel Rumour
Typology Interior design & Identity design & Branding
Location Leiden, The Netherlands
Area 386m2 interior & 150m2 exterior
Status Completed, 2024
Architecture Studio Modijefsky: Esther Stam, Agnese Pellino, Felicia Ureña, Ivana Stella, Beau van der Schoot, Mathilda Legrand, Marie Pierron, Sofia Masselli, Christel Willers
Photography Maarten Willemstein
Text by the authors

Take a look at another project by Studio Modijefsky, De Witt in Dordrecht, here!


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