Bold Design Meets Chic Comfort at TRIBE Amsterdam City

It’s not often you walk into a space that takes your breath away and makes you feel at home at the same time. But that’s what it’s like at TRIBE Amsterdam City. This boutique hotel in Amsterdam Noord is edgy in design yet welcoming in vibe, inviting you to unwind yet be inspired. Design details are everywhere, from the sleek, colourful furniture to the three crosses of Amsterdam’s flag subtly woven into the carpets and lighting.

Ascending the beautiful central staircase into the Social Hub, we’re greeted by a sun-filled space with areas for coworking, mingling or simply taking a quiet moment. The rooms are equally thoughtful, with beds so luxuriously comfortable we almost never want to leave. Yet when it’s time to explore Amsterdam, the city centre is just minutes away by Metro.

This hotel promises “everything you need and nothing you don’t”. Let’s put that to the test.

The first thing we notice as we walk into the lobby is the ceiling. Easily over 10 metres in height, it lets in a stream of sunlight that perfectly complements the bold anthracite walls and cleverly placed mirrors. A faint floral fragrance lingers in the air, a contemporary playlist of music softly setting the tone. Each piece of design furniture, curated by London-based architects Feix&Merlin, is individual in colour and shape, all working together to create a coherent atmosphere that’s creative yet unfussy. It’s an inclusive philosophy that isn’t just limited to the design, but extended to the guests too, making us feel immediately welcome.

A grand staircase sweeps upward to the hotel’s socialising space. After being welcomed by the friendly reception staff (there’s a self check-in option too), we make our way up the magnificent stairs, feeling almost like movie stars at a film festival. The Social Hub is restaurant, bar and coworking space all rolled into one, with a mix of seating areas to choose from to suit your mood and occasion. We roam the sunlit area to find our perfect spot. The high-backed corner sofas facing the windows look ideal for working or dining. The sleek black-marble bar lined with stylish seats are just the thing for collaboration or client meetings. The circular area in playful orange and blue tones, with gauzy curtains that can be drawn for added privacy, promises romance and tranquillity. Finally, we decide on one of the cosy nooks set slightly apart from the main area, and settle in with an intriguing read from their shelves, which are filled with books about the city and country in English and Dutch.

Everything about this hotel exudes warmth, modernity and thoughtfulness, from the staff who remember that you visited a museum that day and ask you how it went, to the striped glass artwork that challenges you to pause and contemplate it from a different perspective. We love all the clever details in the design, like the Amsterdam flag’s three crosses in the ceiling lights, and the affirmation on the bedroom cupboard reminding you that you don’t just look great, “You Are Great”. Nothing is superfluous. Rather, it’s all been carefully chosen to excite and inspire, to be fun while not compromising on luxury or comfort. So, is it “everything you need and nothing you don’t”? We have to agree that it is.

Let’s start with the bed. It’s certainly the first thing to catch your eye when you walk into the room. High, wide and dressed in crisp, white linens, it makes big promises of blissful comfort, and we’re happy to report that it delivers. An added bonus? Our suitcase tucks neatly under the bed, saving space in this already-generous room. Staying on the theme of indulgent pleasures, the baby-pink corner armchair, unique to this hotel, isn’t just extremely pretty, it’s also the perfect spot to lounge with your morning coffee.

The bathroom’s as beautiful as it is practical. The bath and hair products, from eco-conscious luxury brand Kevin Murphy, are in stylish bulk dispensers rather than single-use bottles. A rain shower delivers dreamy relaxation, and the elegantly round mirror is back-lit so applying make-up is easy as can be. Time to head out!

Of all the features that make TRIBE one of the most unique hotels in Amsterdam, the standout for us has to be the range of different social spaces. The “private circle”, as it’s informally known, is a favourite with couples and people craving downtime alike. Golden-topped tables, with orange velvet banquettes and blue curve-back chairs, invite you to settle in and unwind, perhaps with a glass of bubbly or a signature cocktail. White, gauzy curtains surround the space, letting light in while keeping curious eyes out. Or if you want a cosy yet chic vibe that’s still part of the mix, we love the seats near the virtual fireplace. No two chairs are alike, so take your pick from creative design stools and comfy upholstered options – perfect for reading, socialising or catching up on emails.

We’re keen to head into the city centre, so we hop on the Metro, which is right next to the hotel. A mere four minutes and two stops later, we’re at Centraal Station, gateway to Amsterdam’s main landmarks, including the Royal Palace, a plethora of museums and the city’s iconic canals. The nightlife hotspots of Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein are also within easy reach.

After a frenetic day of sightseeing, it’s a relief to take the short ride back to Amsterdam Noord and its tranquil charm. We stroll 10 minutes west to the canal to gaze at the Krijtmolen d’Admiraal, a picturesque 1792 windmill on the waterfront set amid a captivating rural landscape. We’ve set our sights on a visit to NDSM Wharf next, an Amsterdam Noord landmark which promises the city’s largest street art museum and a flea market, but for now, it’s back to the relaxed haven of TRIBE Amsterdam City.

• Modern urban travellers looking for affordable luxury - Influencers who appreciate clever, contemporary design
• Adventurers needing a convenient base for a city break
• Solo travellers and friends eager to hang out in a social atmosphere
• Families who don’t want to compromise on location or amenities
• Individuals and colleagues seeking a coworking space in Amsterdam

1. Posing on the elegant staircase: Gold carpets, sunlight and an alluring curve make this a stunner from any perspective.
2. Unwinding at the Social Hub: We love how the vibrant colours and huge choice of seating suit every mood and personality.
3. Relaxing in your pink armchair: There’s no better place for a contemplative moment with a warm, aromatic beverage.
4. Lounging in the luxurious bed: Between the cloud-soft duvet, eye-catching artwork and unique halo-like wall lamp, you’ll be the envy of all your followers.
5. Gazing at the Krijtmolen d’Admiraal windmill: This local landmark, overlooking the canal and surrounded by charming traditional wooden houses, transports you straight back to the 18th century.