Behid the Bar: Bar TWLV — Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

Along the vibrant Stadhouderskade, close to Leidseplein and Vondelpark, the bar at the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel got a fresh new look. Bar TWLV became the pulsing heart of the hotel, moved to the center of the space and visible from the street. We spoke with designer Tatiana and F&B Director David, each from their own perspective, about the vision behind the renovation and the role Modbar plays in it.

Tatiana Otani Nishi — Designer at D/Dock

What was the vision behind the new bar?
We wanted to create an iconic bar experience, combining cosmopolitan sophistication with meticulous design, a place that feels authentically Amsterdam, while remaining globally welcoming. The idea was to strengthen how guests and locals experience Amsterdam Marriott Hotel, with the bar becoming the connection between these two worlds.

What inspired the design concept?
The design concept is inspired by its location: the city of Amsterdam, and more specifically the heart of the city along the vibrant Stadhouderskade. It draws on the uplifting essence of Amsterdam’s outdoors, the serenity of its parks, the shimmering reflections of its canals, the greenery of its streets, and the glazed tiles of its historic houses. These elements come together in a contemporary, unexpected way, not through direct references, but translated into material choices, fresh colors, rich textures, bespoke furniture, and curated artworks from local creatives.

What role does the bar play within the overall space?
The bar acts as the pulsing heart of Bar TWLV. The first decision when reimagining the space was to bring the bar function closer to the street and to the center of the space, connecting the different parts of the bar experience. The result is a seamless transition between different atmospheres: from refreshing, light-filled moments along the panoramic street view, to deeper, more intimate tones in the lounge and tasting corner, flowing naturally into the rest of the hotel’s areas. It creates a dynamic setting that evolves throughout the day and into the evening, with the bar as its focal point and conductor.

What design or functional considerations led to choosing Modbar for this project?

Beyond the technical side and the functional quality needed, the undercounter solution was what led us to choose Modbar. It meant no obstruction of the panoramic view that serves as the backdrop to this iconic bar, while creating a direct connection between barista or bartender and guest. Instead of a traditional espresso machine acting as a physical barrier, Modbar does the opposite, it allows direct connection and brings the preparation into the interaction. Its design draws attention to the act of making coffee, allowing guests to follow the process and naturally sparking conversation around that moment, contributing to a greater sense of hospitality within the experience.

At what stage of the design process did Modbar enter the project?

At the final design stage, when we were focusing more closely on the details of the bar. It was a natural choice, as, for us, it was key to have smart solutions that could seamlessly integrate different functions into the bar’s body. From the coffee moment with Modbar, to the drinks display at the welcoming station, the DJ booth within the maître station, and the various connected seatings, each element becomes part of the bar itself, shaping the experience around it.

What’s your favorite detail in the space?
With so many details in this project, it’s hard to pick just one. But the carefully designed corner by the window stands out, counter-height seats along a custom-made table, supported by tiled legs with a knot referencing the city’s brick architecture, bringing that twist. With charming table lamps and handy power outlets, it’s a great spot to get some work done, have a coffee or brunch, and watch people pass by during the day, feeling part of that lively city landscape while also perfect to enjoy a drink by the evening light.

Attention was given to every detail of the project, because we believe it’s all these details together that determine the final quality of the space. Modbar is one more way of expressing that belief, through its undeniable aesthetic quality and attention to shape, materiality and finish, adding more to the project than just functional performance.

David Cubillos — F&B Director at Marriott

Why did you take a different approach when renewing the coffee experience?
In line with the renovation of the bar, we also wanted to elevate the coffee experience. We wanted to work with a local coffee roaster, bringing a little more of Amsterdam into the guest experience while supporting our sustainability ambitions. Our chosen partner even delivers its beans by bicycle. We also wanted something minimalistic: no large coffee machine getting in the way of the connection with the guest. Since we also wanted a bar with full 360-degree visibility, so we could see all our guests as a barista, that’s when we got in touch with Alleborgh.

How does Modbar contribute to the guest experience?
Modbar enables more interaction between barista or bartender and guest, and brings a different level of attention to the act of preparing coffee. Guests sometimes ask us where the machine actually is, which we always find funny, they simply don’t expect it. People like the design so much that they start taking pictures of it.In that way, Modbar contributes to an overall stronger guest experience and sense of hospitality.