MAINPORTPresskit

SETTING COURSE FORROTTERDAM’S MAINPORT

Rotterdam is a city of many influences. Of international character and a thriving art scene, of progressive architecture and the long lasting traditions of Europe’s busiest port. These influences in the wake of WWII’s destruction of the city have given bearing to a unique symbiosis of old and new and as a result a truly unique aesthetic.

Like Rotterdam, Mainport hotel stands not only as a beacon of international influence but as a hub for travelers and locals alike. By handpicking the best of International cuisine, Eastern bath culture and combining it with local insider knowledge of Rotterdam, Mainport offers a gateway to all continents while echoing General Manager Hans van Schaick’s philosophy, that hotels should reflect the city they’re in.

With an envy-inducing position on the inner harbor, Mainport with its wide wrap-around windows is perfectly poised to showcase the city’s fascinating history and cosmopolitan focus. No less impressive is the hotel’s five star interior conceived by designer Feran Thomassen, which consciously entwines highlights from the city with influences of far-flung places.

FUTURISTIC ARCHITECTUREA Dramatic Fusion of Aluminum and Glass

Although Rotterdam dates back to the 13th century, architecturally speaking it represents and displays the height of modern design – a city that others look to for inspiration.

Purpose-built by Dutch architect, At Tuns of MAS architectuur, Mainport displays many elements of innovative and daring design that The Netherlands is so well known for across the world. MAS architectuur which emerged from Rotterdam in 1865 as one of Holland’s first architectural firms is renowned for constant innovation and Mainport is no exception. An example of this innovation is exemplified by the architect’s utilization of the foundations from the former and now demolished IMAX cinema. The foundations use part of the dike protecting Rotterdam from the water.

The hotel’s step-like façade is a lattice of aluminum panels and wide glass windows, a design which takes inspiration from the industrial character of Rotterdam.

These massive windows and the elevator shaft which offer views across the city’s jagged skyline, known locally as Manhattan on the Maas, light up at night acting as a beacon on the harbor.

It is Mainport’s design and holistic concept that makes the hotel a landmark in its own right. The hotel’s restaurant and bar are a hot spot for social gatherings and after-work drinks, where guests are invited to become part of the hotel’s community. This sense of belonging is made possible by the dedication of Mainport’s staff members who are always looking to provide something original and unique to each and every guest. Whether it is a recommendation for a local restaurant or new bar, an invitation to visit hidden galleries and artists’ studios or the chance to experience what makes the city’s heart beat, Mainport ensures that their guests are always the first ones in the know.

A NEW LEVEL OF RELAXATIONwith in-room Spas & Panoramic Views

An intelligent orchestration of Dutch traditions and international modernism, every one of Mainport’s spacious rooms exudes a unique charm.

Each of the 215 rooms, which are split into five categories, boasts a walk-in shower with an anti-fog mirror TV, a whirlpool and a king size bed. And for those looking to be treated like royalty, the hotel suites and waterfront spa rooms offer huge jacuzzis and private Finnish saunas.

The décor of Mainport’s rooms and suites, designed by Feran Thomassen, continues this feeling of grandeur. From the luxurious bathrooms to impressive fireplaces and statement lighting which, when combined, ensure that each thoughtfully chosen piece contributes to creating a luxurious whole.

Whether approaching by land or by water, a design of wave-like patterns on the ground draws passers-by into the lobby, which thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides, has a transparent feel. This visibility and openness was key to General Manager Hans van Schaick’s vision for Mainport: to create a venue loved by neighbors as much as out-of-town guests.

A panoramic descent to the riverside level is assured by the elegant staircase and lift – both of which are encased by glass. At the water’s edge guests will find not only the hotel’s private dock for the watertaxi or partyboat, but also the restaurant Down Under and the cocktail bar on The Rocks.

The rooms are large spaces with high ceilings and panoramic windows offering spectacular views overlooking the harbor, the Erasmus Bridge and Rotterdam’s city center.

Mainport’s rooms and suites are the perfect base to watch the world go by.

City XLThe City XL (36sq m / 387sq ft) is designed for today’s city traveler. Whether your stay is for business or leisure, the supersized room with funky layout, XL king size bed and a spacious bathroom, offers all the space you might need. The walk-in shower, whirlpool and mirror TV help you relax after a hard day’s work or exploring the city.

Corner The Corner room (31sq m / 334sq ft) is all about the city experience. With windows on two sides there is no way you will miss out on the Rotterdam feeling! The large bathroom includes walk-in shower, whirlpool and mirror TV.

Waterfront SaunaThe best of two worlds: quietly overlooking the oldest inner harbor of Rotterdam, yet right in the heart of the vibrant city, this room (34sq m / 366sq ft) offers a spectacular bathroom with a walk-in shower, whirlpool, mirror TV and private sauna.

Waterfront SpaExplore Rotterdam from the jacuzzi! Waterfront Spa (44sq m / 474sq ft) - the true jet set room - offers a huge jacuzzi in front of the window overlooking the inner harbor. The wellness experience includes a bathroom with walk-in shower and private sauna.

Spa SuiteMainport’s luxurious suite offers highlights from all of the other rooms plus much more. The indulgent Spa Suite (68sq m / 732sq ft) combines spectacular views, a seating area with fireplace, and a separate bedroom - with an XL king size bed - with a range of wellness facilities, including a walk-in shower, jacuzzi and a private sauna.

RESTAURANT DOWN UNDER & BAR on THE ROCKSA Piece of Sydney in Rotterdam

Just steps away from the hotel lobby, with great views over the harbor, a far-away continent awaits. Restaurant Down Under and cocktail bar on The Rocks continue Mainport’s fascination with travel and the exotic by paying homage to Australia, in particular, Sydney. At Down Under, chef Sander Jongenotter offers predominantly Australian cuisine, characterized by the melting pot of influences from east to west. There are classic dishes to be found on the menu alongside Japanese Sashimi and Argentinean steaks.

But don’t jump to conclusions, on The Rocks is not named after ice cubes - it is named after the hip, up-and-coming part of Sydney that is beloved by the artistic scene. Barkeepers create refined cocktails like Singapore Sling or a Manhattan. The Dutch passion for traveling serves as inspiration for the Restaurant Down Under and the bar on The Rocks. And the ultimate treat is that neither hotel guests nor locals need to travel to the other side of the world in order to discover the taste of vibrant Australian lifestyle, and its cuisine.

Guests can arrive in an iconic Watertaxi Rotterdam directly to the hotel’s private dock on the River Maas. There, they are welcomed by hotel staff and guided to their table in the restaurant.

EAST MEETS WESTIN SPA HEAVEN

With nine meeting rooms spread across an area of 600 sq m (2000 sq ft), Main-port’s conference and celebration space can accommodate up to 400 people. Each meeting room is equipped with high-tech facilities including super-fast wireless. The spacious 550 sq m (1800 sq ft) major conference room offers fantastic views over the river Maas and the harbor, making the perfect venue for special occasions.

Wellness – a healthy balance of the mind and body – is a recurring theme at Mainport. Those inspired by the in-room spa facilities are encouraged to also explore the eighth floor, where Spa Heaven takes the concept of relaxation to another level. Here, the Turkish steam room will increase blood circulation and stimulate sweat glands to encourage healthy and glowing skin. Regenerating facials will leave you feeling good as new and a traditional Hamam-style scrub performed on a heated marble massage table will truly invigorate your body. This experience is sure to purify the mind and body while providing an indulgent voyage into Eastern bath culture.

In addition, a Finnish panorama sauna, showers and a lounge area, for pre and post treatment tranquility, creates a true sanctuary in the midst of an energetic city. Guests also have access to the swimming pool and Life Fitness Gym, also located on eighth floor.

MEETING & CELEBRATIONSin a maritime Atmosphere

THE KEY TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Mainport prides itself on its dedication to respecting nature and the environment. Built according to high ecological principles the hotel has been awarded a Green Key Gold Certificate – a seal for international standards of environmentalism and social responsibility – it is clear that Mainport is serious about sustainability. The hotel is achieving this through their Green Team, who oversees the reduction of water and energy consumption, promote waste reduction and implement environmentally friendly and fair trade cleaning products.

EVERYBODY NEEDS GOOD NEIGHBORS

Rotterdam is the second largest city in The Netherlands, and boasts one of the world’s biggest ports. Since its inception in 1270 on the banks of the river Rotte, the city has evolved into an interntionally important trading center, often referred to as a gate way to the world. The inner harbor of Rotterdam has a skyline view which connects the center and the southern part of the city with the new and almost futuristic harbor area. Mainport is located in Leuvehaven, next to the historic maritime museum and the asymmetric Erasmus Bridge, designed by Amsterdam-based architect Ben van Berkel.

Integration into the surrounding neighborhood, offering a service to the local community, as well as the hotel’s guests, is intrinsic to the DNA of Mainport. Although it is easy to get lost in some of the city’s main attractions such as various boating experiences, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen or the Euromast Space Tower, Mainport also encourages guests to explore the immediate surroundings of the hotel, providing a glimpse into the real Rotterdam. For athletic guests who would like to explore the local area while keeping up with their fitness regime, Mainport organizes a weekly 5 km run – a great way to burn off the calories and see the area through the eyes of a local.

The Down Under restaurant and on the Rocks bar are popular meeting points for guests and locals alike, providing the surrounding businesses an escape from their offices for after-work drinks and meeting room facilities – the perfect setting to help clinch those big deals. Mainport is not so much a destination but an experience, a new way of looking at things and an unforgettable memory.

ORIGINALSThe creative minds behind the hotel

Hans van SchaickGENERAL MANAGER OF MAINPORT

After graduating from hotel management school, Hans van Schaick followed his own path in life and emigrated to New Zealand where his international hotel career began. Upon return 7 years later, van Schaick was employed by Michel Geurts, the founder of the Inntel Group, to manage his Rotterdam 4* property. The plans for Mainport came up by chance when the old IMAX theatre next door was put up for sale. Van Schaick convinced the owners that this was a great opportunity to create a new hotel, a place different from any other hotel in Rotterdam. Van Schaick goes by the philosophy that a hotel should reflect the city it’s in. This philosophy is clearly visible in the planning of Mainport which echoes Rotterdam’s status as an international hub. While combining influences from Holland with worldwide inspiration, Mainport does not forget that Rotterdam is the hotel’s ‘main port’ which was key to van Schaick’s vision for the hotel.

At TunsARCHITECT, MAS ARCHITECTUUR

In 2015 it will be the 150th anniversary of one of Holland’s oldest architectural firms, MAS architectuur. Despite having been set up in 1865, the company is certainly not old fashioned, priding itself on unique innovation at the forefront of architectural design. Mainport is the firm’s first foray into hotel architecture – and judging on the success, most certainly not their last.

Feran ThomassenINTERIOR DESIGNER

An innovator of multi-faceted design, Feran Thomassen combines creativity with technical solutions to achieve a cutting-edge interior environment. These designs are aesthetic of course but also highly functional. By taking inspiration from the physical location of a building and the culture of its residents, his designs respond creatively to the utility of a space.

Environmental sustainability is fundamental to Thomassen. The teams process, which follows a systematic methodology, including research, creativity and an adherence to regulatory requirements, achieves high levels of sustainability.

Gary SymorFASHION DESIGNER, GARY SYMOR GB

It was important to Gary Symor that the staff uniforms reflect the history of Rotterdam, in keeping with the concept of the hotel. Inspired by the style of the 1950s, the outfits reference the golden era of travel when the harbor – including Rotterdam’s main port – was the starting point for voyages throughout the world. Gary has designed uniforms for L’OREAL and Sofitel Legend The Grand in Amsterdam.

DATES & FACTSMainport

ADDRESS

Leuvehaven 77 3011 EA, Rotterdam Netherlands www.designhotels.com/mainport

OPENING DATE

May 13, 2013

ACCOMMODATION

215 Rooms & Suites

FACILITIES

→ XL King Size Bed or King Size Bed→ In-room Spa: walk-in shower, bathrobe and slippers, Malin+Goetz bathroom amenities, oversized round jacuzzi (Waterfront Spa Room/ Spa Suite)→ Entertainment: 26- 32” LCD Flat screen TV, interactive TV→ Complimentary Illy espresso machine and tea-making facilities→ Mini-bar→ 24 hour in-room dining→ Free Wi-Fi → Two telephones (bed and desk)→ Self-controlled air conditioning→ Ironing facilities→ Private Waterside Dock→ Direct access to Rotterdam Water Taxis FOOD & DRINK

→ Restaurant Down Under→ on The Rocks cocktail bar

RECREATION

→ Full Service Spa Heaven and Life Fitness Gym (8th floor) → Wet area with showers and scrubs→ Finnish Panorama sauna→ Turkish Steam room→ Hamam→ Two treatment rooms (offering facials, body treatments, massage etc.)→ Lounge area for general use and pre- and post-relaxation→ Body and skin care→ Swimming pool CONFERENCE FACILITIES

→ Conference Space→ 600 sq m / 2000 sq f of flexible meeting space (capacity 400)→ Eight flexible function rooms (30sq m / 100sq f to 550 sq m / 1800 sq f) + 1 Board room (50sq m / 165sq f) → The spacious, 550sq m / 1800sq f Major Conference Room, overlooking the water, is a grand venue for all Rotterdam events – from conferences to celebrations→ Dock for partyboat INTERIOR DESIGNERS & ARCHITECTS

→ MAS architectuur→ Feran Thomassen RATES

EUR 150 – 650

PRESS CONTACT

Anja VoparilDIRECTOR OF PR & COMMUNICATIONS

E-MAIL a.voparil@designhotels.com PHONE +49 (0)30 88 494 0030

Rebecca KrumPR MANAGER

E-MAIL r.krum@designhotels.com PHONE +49 (0)30 88 494 0032

Johanna SchirmPR MANAGER

E-MAIL j.schirm@designhotels.com PHONE +49 (0)30 88 494 0090

Ruby DaviesPR EXECUTIVE

E-MAIL r.davies@designhotels.com PHONE +49 (0)30 88 494 0034